Occupational Performance Coaching (OPC)

What is OPC?

Developed by Dr Fiona Graham (University of Otago NZ,) OPC is a person centred approach to supporting clients to identify and implement changes using reflective, goal orientated conversations and strategies to support client readiness for change. (Graham, F. 2020. OPC, Introductory Presentation Material)

To learn more about this approach visit https://www.otago.ac.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0033/319596/occupational-performance-coaching-brief-presentation-731884.pdf

Who is this course is for?

The OPC Introductory Workshop is intended for therapists new to OPC. Originally developed for use by occupational therapists working with parents of children with developmental disabilities and additional needs, OPC is now used by multiple rehabilitation professions to support people of all ages, and with diverse health conditions, to achieve personally valued change in life domains.

This interactive training will develop participants understanding of the methods, process and principles of OPC.

Course learning objectives

• Gain insights into the foundational basis of OPC and its key concepts and methods.
• Experience being coached to deepen your understanding of how OPC methods work.
• Learn effective strategies for connection, goal setting, and elevating client engagement in decision making.
• Practice implementing OPC in a safe practice environment.
• Develop confidence to apply OPC methods with reflective and proactive clients.
• Become comfortable in describing the what, why and how of OPC to colleagues and clients.

This training combines self-study, lecture style teaching and experiential interactive practices. Active learning methods include individual, small and large group activities throughout to develop learners' skills in OPC methods, process, and principles.Learners can expect to engage in their own individual goal setting, be connected to mindfulness practices and move through their own reflective practice cycles to support their personal learning goals. In doing so learners experience personal and professional development, and gain insights into the experience their clients will have when being coached.

Course Requirements

There is an expectation for some self study and practice before and during the workshop sessions. The OPC Manual is the required text for the workshop and is included as part of the workshop registration price.

Presented by:

Dr. Áine O'Dea PhD, is one of Ireland’s most renowned occupational therapists and foremost authorities on DCD/Dyspraxia in Children and Young Adults. She was the winner of one of a handful of prestigious SPHeRe scholarships allocated in Ireland each year, where she gained her Doctorate in Public Health Research, making her adept in consulting across health, business, and educational sectors, where she excels in analysing and implementing practical, evidence-based strategies for professional and personal growth.

Dr. O’Dea has had her research published in high-impact journals such as PLOS One and the British Journal of Occupational Therapy, among others, and has also co-authored several chapters in the recently published book “Supervision for Occupational Therapy: Practical Guidance for Supervisors and Supervisees”. Dancza, K., Volkert, A., & Tempest, S. (Eds.) (2023)