The complexion of service delivery in psychiatry, particularly the roles and functions of allied health professionals, is evolving in response to economic, political, legal, and social changes. Understanding that change is inevitable, knowing that services shift to meet changing consumer needs, and effectively designing and developing suitable programs that address social changes are skills that have enabled occupational therapists to become change agents. Occupational therapists are able and willing to cooperate in a dedicated effort to improve the functional abilities of those with psychiatric illnesses. Engaging in a collaborative effort to refine mental health services to meet consumer needs while respecting system constraints is a joint effort. Efficient use of experienced personnel to develop the optimal solution to the effects of shrinking resources, staff shortages, and the demands of more educated consumers will result in the best the system has to offer.
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