Matthews Model of Clinical Reasoning: A Systematic Approach to Conceptualize Evaluation and Intervention

ABSTRACT

Clinical reasoning is a complex process required for effective therapeutic encounters. Its development is poorly understood. The clinical reasoning process is placed in a historical context based on the occupational therapy literature. An emerging model of clinical reasoning is proposed. This model of clinical reasoning provides a unique perspective in order to compartmentalize the person, environment, and occupation constructs around the person’s life story, connect it directly to the occupational therapy practice framework, and determine treatment priorities, emphasizing a client-centered perspective. A client-centered model of clinical reasoning supports efforts to provide effective intervention.

KEYWORDS:

• Bottom-up approach
• client centered
• clinical reasoning
• top-down approach

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Dr. Victoria P. Schindler, OTR, BCMH, FAOTA, professor of OT at Stockton University, New Jersey, Dr. Margaret Swarbrick, FAOTA, associate professor of Rutgers University Behavioral Healthcare and Collaborative Support Programs of New Jersey and Katie Wall who was an OT graduate student at the time of this initial publication.