Client-centred care means that I am a valued human being

Area of Science:

• Occupational therapy
• Mental health services
• Client-centered care

Background:

• Canadian occupational therapists increasingly use a client-centered approach.
• Diverse interpretations of "client-centered" exist among professionals.
• Client perspectives on this approach are underrepresented in research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the client's perspective on client-centered care in mental health services.
• To understand the lived experiences of individuals with mental illness regarding this approach.
• To identify inadequacies in current practices and recommend changes from the client's viewpoint.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research approach utilizing focus groups.
• Seventeen participants with experience in mental health services were involved.
• Discussions focused on the meaning and application of client-centered practice.

Main Results:

• Participants emphasized the need for service providers and society to view individuals with mental illness as valuable human beings.
• Clients highlighted inadequacies in past and present mental health practices.
• Clients recommended necessary changes to improve service delivery.

Conclusions:

• The client's perspective is crucial for truly implementing client-centered care in occupational therapy.
• Valuing individuals with mental illness is a fundamental aspect of effective client-centered practice.
• Further research should prioritize incorporating client voices in mental health service evaluation.