At its core, OPC is a collaborative, strengths-based intervention that supports individuals to identify, and work towards, personally meaningful participation goals. Through guided questioning, reflection, and emotional support, clients develop the skills and confidence to generate and implement their own solutions. This autonomy-supportive approach is grounded in theories such as self-determination and adult learning, and emphasises emotional support, goal setting, strategy development, and individualised education (Egan et al 2023 Student-led OPC in a university setting).

The evidence base for OPC continues to grow across diverse populations. In paediatric practice, OPC has been shown to enable parents to identify and implement strategies that improve their child’s participation in everyday activities, while also building parental problem-solving capacity and confidence (2009 Graham et al Coaching parents to enable children's participation). Emerging research also highlights its effectiveness in enhancing community participation for children with developmental disabilities through parent coaching approaches (2009 Graham et al Coaching parents to enable children's participation).

Beyond paediatrics, OPC has demonstrated promise in adult rehabilitation and chronic condition management. For example, stroke survivors engaging in OPC showed improvements in participation and goal performance, highlighting its feasibility as a participation-focused intervention (Kessler et al 2014 OPC for stroke survisors a feasibility examination). Similarly, individuals with multiple sclerosis reported a shift from problem-focused thinking to solution-oriented self-management, alongside improved planning and strategy use following OPC intervention (Malakouti et al 2025 The experience of people with MS and OPC).

Importantly, OPC is not just about achieving immediate goals—it equips individuals with transferable skills to address future challenges, supporting sustained engagement in meaningful occupations.

As one of only two certified OPC trainers in the UK and Ireland, I am passionate about supporting allied health professionals and teams to integrate this powerful, evidence-based approach into their practice. If you are interested in developing your skills in OPC or arranging a workshop for your team, I would welcome the opportunity to connect.

OPC represents a shift in how we think about intervention - moving from “doing for”" to “working with” - ultimately enabling the people we support to thrive in the occupations that matter most.