Inspiration: moving forward when you do not see the steps

Abstract

This paper reflects on the changing culture of occupational therapy and the possible changes to come as the profession seeks to meet the needs of an increasingly inequitable and globalised world. The theme of inspiration is discussed in relation to everyday occupational therapy practice, the stimulus by which occupational therapists make changes in practice and the creative source through which the profession discovers new horizons. As the profession responds to the diverse needs of community’s in culturally appropriate ways, alternative models of practice will evolve. It is proposed that the concepts of professional pluralism will enable the development of a many sided professional identity. The contribution of the New Zealand occupational therapy profession in developing new ways of working that are culturally safe and occupationally just is regarded as an inspiration to the international profession.