Writing Client Goals in Occupational Therapy

Writing goals for our clients is one of the main things we do as occupational therapists, yet, this can often be one of the more difficult aspects of our role. When beginning to work with a client, an OT must start with the end in mind by making goals for our client to work toward as they participate in OT services. When an OT begins to develop goals for their client and make a plan for intervention, it is important to first identify the problem that is causing a decline in occupational performance. This will allow the OT to better make their short and long term goals for the client. A short-term goal will be done within 30 days, are revised and might change during OT intervention, and typically relate to building specific skills. Long term goals will be what the client will be attempting to achieve by the time that they are discharged from OT, they usually stay the same throughout delivery of services, and they often relate to occupation and function. When an OT writes goals for a client, he or she must consider the wants and needs of the client, a reasonable time frame, and a method of measurement. Though goal writing can often be tricky, goals are a vital part of the OT process as a way to involve the client, provide more efficient and effective treatment, and prove the distinct value of occupational therapy.