The lived experiences of occupational therapists in assessing work skills of people with mental illness

Abstract Background Work is defined as “labour or exertion related to the development, production, delivery, or management of objects or services; benefits may be financial or nonfinancial”. Paid employment is associated with enhanced self-efficacy, meaningful participation, improved health, economic security, and overall well-being. Work skill assessment (WSA) evaluates a person’s abilities, skills, values, and interests for employment using various tools and techniques. Occupational therapists working with clients with mental illness conduct WSAs to determine readiness for employment and guide intervention planning. Aim and objectives This study aimed to explore occupational therapists’ lived experiences in conducting WSAs for individuals with mental illness in India. Objectives included understanding the assessment process, tools and frameworks used, and challenges encountered. Methodology A qualitative phenomenological design was used to explore the lived experiences of 12 occupational therapists. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Three themes emerged: Familiarity guided practice, Unseen pitfalls, and Moving towards awareness. Conclusion The findings emphasize both the possibilities and limitations of current WSA practices. Therapists use and modify tools creatively, but the lack of standardized assessments, institutional support, and access to real-world settings hinders accurate evaluation of clients’ work abilities.