What is the OTPF?

The Occupational Therapy Performance Framework: Domain and Process (or OTPF for short) is a guideline of occupational therapy practices, terms, and methods. The OTPF is used by practitioners to ensure standardized processes and terminology in order to best serve occupational therapy clients. The purpose is to create a common language for enriched communication as well as to guide evaluations, interventions, and outcomes, and highlight OT’s scope of practice (what OTs are qualified to do).

OT Through the Eras - How WWII Changed OT

During the presentations of our “OT through the Eras” projects in class today, I was struck by the vastness of effects World War II (1940s) had on occupational therapy. While the economic, U.S., and world effects of the war are well known, I was surprised to learn how the war changed the occupations of Americans (namely women) and how afterwards, OT was never the same.

Because men were drafted to fight in World War II, it was up to the women to maintain the jobs back at home. Think Rosie the Riveter! This meant that the occupations (meaningful activities of daily life) of these women went from homemaking, cooking, and child care, to also include factory jobs, farming, and other previously male-dominated fields.

Furthermore, when the men returned after the war, many of them required assistance to reintegrate into everyday life state-side. Occupational therapists were vital in aiding injured veterans (both mentally and physically) to regain their occupations, begin working again, and adjusting to the booming American culture. 

Board Certification Interest

Of the ATOA Board Certifications, the Board Certification in Mental Health interests me the most. I find the psychological aspect of healing and rehabilitation fascinating. Eventually, I would like to work with wounded veterans in re-entering civilian life. This area interests me because of the trauma that is involved. The mind is a wonderful thing but it can also get in the way of our progression, especially when it has endured trauma (as many veterans have). I hope to learn about ways to morph the mind’s trauma into a productive tool in rehabilitation. I think the Board Certification in Mental Health will be a great step in doing so!