What aspect of therapy does client-centered care focus on?

Client-centered care is fundamentally concerned with understanding and respecting the individual preferences, values, and needs of each client. This approach emphasizes the uniqueness of each client, recognizing that their perspectives, goals, and circumstances should drive the therapy process. By prioritizing what matters most to clients, occupational therapists can create more personalized and effective interventions that empower clients and enhance their engagement in the therapeutic process.

A focus on client preferences and values directly informs treatment decisions, ensuring that therapy is relevant and meaningful to those receiving it. This personalized approach contrasts sharply with practices that may generalize treatment methods or ignore the client’s voice in favor of standardized or therapist-driven protocols.

Ultimately, the essence of client-centered care lies in fostering a collaborative partnership between the therapist and the client, where the client's goals guide the therapeutic direction, leading to improved outcomes and satisfaction with the therapy received.