Enhancing Professional Reasoning through the Use of Evidence-Based Assessments, Robust Case Formulations and Measurable Goals

Abstract

The value of therapists documenting their clinical reasoning and negotiating specific and measurable goals is widely acknowledged. However, the literature suggests that practitioners often encounter barriers when implementing best practice. This article details how occupational therapists in Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust entered an academic partnership, which transformed their communication of clinical and professional reasoning. Having adopted a conceptual model of practice, they established clearly defined processes for assessment, case formulation and goal setting. Service users, carers and team members confirmed that these initiatives enhanced person-centred practice, highlighted occupational issues and made treatment planning more effective for the whole team.