Creation of New Services: Collaboration Between Mental Health Consumers and Occupational Therapists

Abstract

In order to improve polices and practice in mental health services, a study was carried out in Iceland to explore users' perspectives about recovery. Qualitative research methods were used with a diverse cross-section of subjects who considered themselves “survivors” of mental illness. The study identified supports and barriers to recovery from the user's perspective. A group of users and occupational therapists worked together to utilize the results and create new ideas in service delivery for individuals with mental health problems. They expanded their partnership by involving occupational therapy students to work on a quality assurance project. This collaboration has already promoted the development of new services in Iceland, which are driven by user's perspectives on recovery and empowerment and concepts from the Model of Human Occupation.