ABSTRACT

Objective: This study was executed in order to apprehend the current state of consultation in the area of occupational therapy for parents who have children with disabilities, and to examine their desire for consultation. Methods: The participants were 177 parents and family members with children with a disability, who have consulted with an occupational therapist at least once a week in an occupational therapy clinic located in a pediatric psychiatrist clinic, welfare center, or private clinic based in the Seoul and Gyeonggi areas. The survey consisted of general information on the participants, their current state of consultation regarding occupational therapy for their children, and their desire for such consultation. Results: For the contents of the consultation, the participants reported in order the information regarding the therapy process and program, the behavior characteristics of their children with a disability and how to treat them, and the goal of occupational therapy. They reported that consultations helped them understand their children’s development level and the purpose of occupational therapy, and they vowed to continue treatment. Among the parents’ preferences regarding their consultation, the content, duration, and desired time were not at odds with the current status, but many desired to be consulted with both parents present together. Conclusion: The study results indicate that a consultation can be planned and processed more efficiently and applicably based on the desire of the parents.