What is the OTPF?

The OTPF stands for Occupational Therapy Practice Framework. It is composed of ideas, concepts, and philosophies that guide OT. It addresses domain of OT, the OT process, occupations, and client factors.

The domain of OT is the areas in which OT's have a great wealth of knowledge and expertise.  This is what defines the focus of OT. Client factors, performance skills, performance patterns, context, environment, and activity demand are all under the domain of OT practice. Each part of the domain brings a different part of occupational therapy to the table. 

The OT process is the actions that a practitioner takes when providing services that are client-centered and focused on engagement in occupation. This is what defines the delivery of OT. Throughout the process, occupation remains central. There is also collaboration with the client throughout the process. 

Occupations are ordinary, part of daily living, and are often taken for granted. They can be special when they do not happen all then time or symbolic, such as blowing out candles on a birthday cake. Everyone has occupations and they give meaning to life. 

Client factors are specific capabilities, characteristics, or beliefs of a person that influence performance in occupations. Values, body function and body structure make up client factors. Client factors will vary from person to person and impact occupations.