Implementing a client centred approach in rehabilitation: an autoethnography

Date
2012
Authors
Bright, FAS
Boland, P
Rutherford, SJ
Kayes, NM
McPherson, KM
Supervisor
Item type
Journal Article
Degree name
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Abstract

Purpose: Client-centred practice is widely considered a key element of rehabilitation. However, there is limited discussion of how it should be implemented. This study explored how client-centred practice was operationalized during a clinical trial of innovative goal-setting techniques. Method: This study drew on principles of co-autoethnography. The personal experiences of three clinical researchers were explored to identify insights into client-centred practice, and seek understanding of this within the broader socio-cultural context. Data were collected through group discussions and written reflections. Thematic analysis and coding were used to identify the dominant themes from the data. Results: The primary way that client-centred practice was operationalized was through listening in order to get to know, to uncover and to understand what was meaningful. Four strategies were identified: utilizing mindful listening, allowing time, supporting clients to prioritize what is meaningful and viewing the therapists’ role differently. Conclusion: While technical competence in rehabilitation is important, our study suggested a starting point of ‘being with’ rather than ‘doing to’ may be beneficial for engaging people in their rehabilitation. We have highlighted a number of practical strategies that can be used to facilitate more client-centred practice. These approaches are consistent with what clients report they want and need from rehabilitation services. Read More: http://informahealthcare.com/eprint/iTb6XrphgpPrdhxH4P36/full

Description
Keywords
Autoethnography; Client-centred practice
Source
Disability and Rehabilitation, 34:12, 997-1004, DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2011.629712
Rights statement
Copyright © 2012 Taylor & Francis. This is a preprint of an article whose final and definitive form has been published in the Disability and Rehabilitation and is available online at: www.tandfonline.com with the open URL of your article (see Publisher’s Version).