OAR 339-010-0007: Occupational Therapy in Mental Health and Behavioral Health Practice

Pursuant to ORS 675.210 defining the practice of Occupational Therapy, occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants, use analysis and purposeful activity with individuals across their lifespan who are limited by psycho-social dysfunctions, or mental or behavioral disabilities. (1) Occupational therapists address barriers to optimal functioning at the all levels with: (a) Individuals (body functions, cognitive functions, values, beliefs, spirituality, motor skills, cognitive skills, and social skills); (b) Groups (collective individuals, e.g. families, workers, students, or community); and (c) Populations (collective groups of individuals living in a similar locale, e.g., city, state, or country residents, people sharing same or like concerns). (2) Occupational therapy practitioners perform evaluations and interventions that focus on enhancing existing skills, creating opportunities, promoting wellness, remediating or restoring skills, modifying or adapting the environment or activity, and preventing relapse. (3) Occupational therapists and Occupational therapy assistants use a recovery model to increase the ability of individuals, groups, and populations to be engaged with daily life activities that are meaningful; lead to productive daily roles, habits, and routines; and promote living as independently as possible. (4) Services for individuals with mental illness are client centered and may be provided to individuals in the community, hospitals, correctional institutions, homes, schools or other educational programs, workplace, or any other setting. (5) Occupational therapists may provide behavioral and mental health preliminary “diagnosis” using standard terminology and taxonomy such as DSM or ICD, through observation of symptoms and mental health assessment, confirmed by prescribing physician and health care team.