Occupational Therapy Models of Practice and Frames of Reference: An Overview

Occupational therapy (OT) is rooted in the effective application of theories, models, and frames of reference to support client outcomes. This blog post provides an introductory overview of the foundational concepts behind Models of Practice and Frames of Reference in OT. For in-depth resources, detailed guides, and actionable techniques, we encourage you to explore our comprehensive exam prep program designed for OT and OTA students.

What Are Models of Practice?

Models of Practice are frameworks that apply theoretical concepts to guide OT practitioners. They act as “mental maps,” helping clinicians assess the patient’s needs, abilities, and engagement in meaningful occupations. These models focus on improving occupational performance by analyzing contextual issues and creating intervention strategies tailored to individual client goals.

Key Features of Models of Practice:

• Broad, theory-driven frameworks.
• Focus on enhancing occupational performance.
• Applicable across diverse settings and populations.

Example Approaches in Models of Practice:

• 1. Remediation: Improves specific performance components like strength or range of motion, aiming for better overall function.
• 2. Compensation: Adapts tasks, environments, or tools to support performance when remediation isn’t feasible.

Models of Practice is the application of theory to occupational therapy practice. These are “mental maps” that assist clinicians in understanding what to do in clinical practice. The main purpose of models of practice is to facilitate the analysis of the occupational profile and to consider potential outcomes of using selected interventions

Key Features of Models of Practice:

• Broad, theory-driven frameworks.
• Occupation is the focus in each model.
• Applicable across diverse settings and populations.

Examples of Models of Practice

• 1. Model of Human Occupation (MOHO): Core component is motivation for occupation. Focuses on explaining the volitional processes, roles, and habits that guide and structure people’s participation in occupation (volition, habituation, and performance capacity).,/li>
• 2. Ecology of Human Performance (EHP): Context is key. Modify or alter context to optimize occupational performance

What Are Frames of Reference?

A Frame of Reference (FOR) links theory to practical intervention strategies. Unlike models of practice, FORs provide a narrower focus, offering clinicians specific tools and approaches for guiding interventions and solving particular challenges.

Key Features of Frames of Reference:

• Provide structure for intervention planning.
• Focus on clinical reasoning and measurable outcomes.
• Often specific to certain diagnoses or functional challenges.

Example Approaches in Frames of Reference:

• 1. Biomechanical FOR,: Focuses on improving physical abilities like range of motion or strength.
• 2. Sensory Integration,: Helps clients process and respond effectively to sensory input.

What Are Frames of Reference?

A Frame of Reference (FOR) helps link theory to practical intervention strategies. Unlike models of practice, FORs provide a narrower view of how to approach occupational performance. An OTP may therefore need to blend intervention strategies from several FORs to effectively meet a patient’s needs. The intervention strategies described within the various FORs are not meant to be used as a protocol but rather offer the OTP a way to structure intervention.

Key Features of Frames of Reference:

• Provide guidelines for structuring assessment and intervention planning.
• Focus on applying clinical reasoning to the chosen intervention methods.
• Often specific to certain diagnoses or functional challenges.

Examples of Frames of Reference:

• • 1. Biomechanical FOR: Focuses on using therapeutic exercises to improve physical abilities such as range of motion, strength and endurance, which impact functional abilities.
  • 2. Sensory Integration: Helps clients process, integrate and respond effectively to sensory input.

Comparing Models of Practice and Frames of Reference

While Models of Practice offer a broad, theoretical perspective to guide occupational therapy, Frames of Reference delve into specific intervention techniques. Together, they provide a comprehensive approach to addressing clients’ needs.
The table below highlights the key differences between Models of Practice and Frames of Reference to help clarify their roles in occupational therapy.

Models of Practice vs Frames of Reference

To learn how these models and frames of reference are applied in real-world practice, explore our exam prep program for deeper insights.

Examples of other popular Models of Practice and Frames of Reference in OT

Models of Practice:

• 1. Occupational Adaptation (OA):The integration of occupation and adaptation is viewed as a single, integrated process. Focuses on improving adaptability, rather than functional skills.
• 2. Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance Model (PEOP): Focuses on the interaction between a person, their environment, and their occupational performance.

Frames of Reference:

• 1. Cognitive Behavioral FOR: Focuses on changing unhelpful thought patterns to improve function.
• 2. Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT): Hands-on treatment approach for rehabilitation of neuro conditions. Focuses on specific handling techniques to facilitate normal posture and movement patterns while inhibiting abnormal patterns.
• 3. Compensatory FOR: Supports independence by using compensatory techniques and assistive devices to increase occupational performance.

Why Understanding These Concepts Matters

For OT practitioners, understanding Models of Practice and Frames of Reference ensures:

• Enhanced clinical reasoning and decision-making.
• The ability to design tailored interventions for diverse client needs.
• Improved client outcomes by blending theory with practical application.

For OT and OTA students, mastering these frameworks is critical for excelling in the NBCOT® exam and developing strong foundational knowledge for clinical practice.

Why Enroll in Our Program?

Our comprehensive OT and OTA exam prep program dives deeper into these critical concepts, offering:

• Detailed charts comparing various models and frames of reference.
• Visual aids, examples, and case studies to reinforce learning.
• Practical tips for applying these theories in real-world settings.

With our expert-designed modules, you’ll gain the tools and confidence needed to succeed in the NBCOT® exam and advance your career in occupational therapy.

Ready to Take Your Learning Further?

For in-depth resources, actionable techniques, and expert-guided study plans, enroll in our program today and join thousands of successful OT and OTA professionals who’ve excelled with our support.