What is the primary focus of a comprehensive occupational therapy assessment?

The primary focus of a comprehensive occupational therapy assessment is to address client-centered goals and performance. This approach ensures that the assessment is tailored to the individual's unique needs, preferences, and contexts, recognizing that occupational therapy is about facilitating participation in meaningful activities that enhance a person's quality of life. By concentrating on goals and performance, the therapist can develop appropriate interventions that are specific to the client’s aspirations and daily challenges, leading to more effective and personalized care.

Looking at this further, other options do not align with the holistic philosophy of occupational therapy. For instance, merely measuring physical abilities ignores the broader psychosocial and environmental factors that impact a client’s occupational performance. Identifying single diagnostic criteria limits the assessment to a narrow scope, failing to capture the complexity of a client's situation and needs. Lastly, gathering data without context misses the essential understanding of how various factors such as environment, personal history, and social situations interact with the client's performance and wellbeing. Thus, focusing on client-centered goals ensures a comprehensive and effective assessment.