Leadership, advocacy and promotion in the occupational therapy profession
Occupational Therapy in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand: Professional and Practice Issues, pp.537-546
Routledge, 3rd
2027
1
This chapter explores the concepts of leadership, advocacy, and promotion within the context of occupational therapy, emphasising their relevance to professional practice and the advancement of the profession. It begins by defining each term and examining how these concepts intersect with occupational therapy values, including equity, inclusion, and client-centred care. Leadership is presented as both formal and informal, highlighting qualities such as authenticity, emotional intelligence, and lifelong learning that enable occupational therapists to influence change and inspire others. Advocacy is discussed as a core responsibility, focusing on collaborative efforts with individuals, communities, and systems to promote occupational justice and address barriers to participation. The chapter also considers strategies for promoting the profession and its unique contribution to health and well-being, including effective communication and engagement with diverse audiences. Examples illustrate how leadership, advocacy, and promotion are embedded in everyday practice and how these skills align with competencies required for high-quality occupational therapy. Ultimately, the chapter reinforces that developing these capabilities is essential for occupational therapists to enact meaningful change, strengthen the profession, and support equitable access to occupations across all levels of practice.
- Leadership, advocacy and promotion in the occupational therapy profession
- Dave Parsons - The University of Notre Dame AustraliaAngela Berndt - University of TasmaniaMichelle Bissett - Southern Cross UniversityAngus Buchanan - The University of Queensland
- Ted Brown (Editor of compilation) - Monash UniversityHelen Bourke-Taylor (Editor of compilation) - Monash UniversityStephen Isbel (Editor of compilation) - University of Canberra Hospital (Australia, ACT)Louise Gustafsson (Editor of compilation) - Griffith UniversityYvonne Thomas (Editor of compilation) - OPTEma Tokolahi (Editor of compilation) - OPT
- Occupational Therapy in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand: Professional and Practice Issues, pp.537-546
- Routledge; Oxon, UK
- 3rd
- 991013384450702368
- © 2027 selection and editorial matter, Ted Brown, Helen Bourke-Taylor, Stephen Isbel, Louise Gustafsson, Yvonne Thomas, and Ema Tokolahi; individual chapters, the contributors.
- Allied Health and Midwifery; Faculty of Health
- English
- Book chapter