Book chapter
Partnering with experts by experience in occupational therapy
Occupational Therapy in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand: Professional and Practice Issues, pp.161-172
Routledge, 3rd
2027
Appears in Recent Faculty of Health Publications
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Abstract
This chapter explores the concept of partnering with experts by experience as a cornerstone of contemporary occupational therapy practice, research, and education. It begins by defining partnering and its philosophical roots in emancipatory and social justice movements, emphasising empowerment, inclusivity, and authentic power-sharing. The term 'expert by experience' is adopted to reflect the active and valuable contributions of individuals with lived experience in shaping health services, policies, and research agendas. The chapter outlines anticipated benefits of partnering, including improved health outcomes, enhanced service relevance, and strengthened equity. It examines guiding principles - such as relationship-building, positionality, and shared decision-making - while identifying common barriers, including inadequate resourcing, organisational constraints, and time pressures. Enablers such as recognition, reimbursement, and capability development are also discussed. Examples of partnering are presented across clinical, organisational, research, and educational contexts, illustrating its application from individual service delivery to system-level policy development. Strategies for fostering authentic partnerships and navigating challenges are provided, reinforcing the importance of cultural safety and mutual respect. By integrating theory with practical approaches, this chapter positions partnering with experts by experience as essential for advancing occupational therapy's commitment to collaboration, equity, and meaningful participation.
Details
- Title
- Partnering with experts by experience in occupational therapy
- Creators
- Louise Gustafsson - Griffith UniversityJacki Liddle - The University of QueenslandMichelle Bissett - Southern Cross UniversityPriscilla Ennals - Neami National (Australia)Caleb Rixon - Genyus Network (Australia)Kim Walder - Griffith UniversityMatthew McShane - Griffith University
- Contributors
- 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
- Publication Details
- Occupational Therapy in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand: Professional and Practice Issues, pp.161-172
- Publisher
- Routledge; Oxon, UK
- Edition
- 3rd
- Identifiers
- 991013385950002368
- Copyright
- © 2027 selection and editorial matter, Ted Brown, Helen Bourke-Taylor, Stephen Isbel, Louise Gustafsson, Yvonne Thomas, and Ema Tokolahi; individual chapters, the contributors.
- Academic Unit
- Allied Health and Midwifery; Faculty of Health
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Book chapter