Exploring the experiences of Indigenous occupational therapists in Canada

Abstract

Introduction: The occupational therapy (OT) profession is derived from colonial ideologies, and despite recent efforts to address the Truth and Reconciliation (TRC) Calls to Action and address systemic racism, the profession must consider the value of and need for other worldviews and ways of knowing. Indigenous occupational therapists are well positioned to engage in and lead this work – yet many Indigenous OTs experience a lack of belonging and a poor fit between their own ways of knowing and the profession. As such, Indigenous occupational therapists have identified a need for a dedicated community of practice (CoP). Methods: Stage 1 of this research project utilized individual storytelling sessions (n=13) with Indigenous OTs to learn more about their everyday experiences, whereas Stage 2 consisted of an in-person sharing circle gathering (n=8) to collectively generate advice and ways forward for the profession through the formulation of an Indigenous CoP. Implications: Indigenous OTs shared their everyday experiences of working in the colonial OT profession contributing to forming a needed knowledge base within the literature. An Indigenous CoP will provide a dedicated space for Indigenous OT students and therapists to consider the strengths of both Indigenous ways of knowing and Western knowledge working together (Etuaptmumk/Two-Eyed Seeing) to improve the profession as well as providing needed support and mentorship to one another. Conclusions: This CoP will help inform the occupational therapy profession regarding needed supports and changes to begin fulfilling the TRC Calls to Action.