CCtheOT901

  Therapeutic    Relationships  Therapeutic relationships are defined as relationships between the client and the practitioner. These relationships we develop with our clients are very crucial to providing the best environment for change. Studies show that clients thrive when a clinician is empathetic to their individual situation. All of this intervention is for the intent of gaining trust and agreement which can facilitate the use of the person’s latent inner resources and abilities to maximize function and safety. When therapist put themselves in the shoes of the client they can really provide the best treatment to their client. Sometimes people just need a listening, caring, compassionate ear. To be able to use your own life experiences and own hardships really allow you to be vulnerable and let the client know that you care. Developing these therapeutic relationships is one thing I am BEYOND excited for in my future career as an OT. 

During Dr. Keisling’s presentation today on The History of Disability I had one of my “why moments.” It’s no secret that gross anatomy has been taking over all of our lives, and it is really easy to get discouraged and overwhelmed. Today reminded me why I love occupational therapy.  In America, individuals with disabilities are the LARGEST minority group. Being able to see how far we’ve come and know the struggles that we, as a country, have overcome in the movement for a fully inclusive environment.   When Dr. Keisling said “be brave enough to tell the client and/or the client’s family that you don’t know answers.” I sometimes get so discouraged because I want to be able to helpful and informative but somethings aren’t always black and white. I also LOVE that he mentioned that sometimes the answers aren’t always there, but that doesn’t mean that is a solid definite answer that can’t be resolved. The world is always changing, just because the task at hand is impossible now, do