Introduction: The undergraduate degree in rehabilitation therapy (RT) I studied is unique in China. RT combines PT, OT and ST techniques with limited OT professional reasoning. The assembly-line-like OT practice I observed during placement made me feel skeptical of what OT is. Transitioning from RT to OT was a challenge.
Objectives: To reflect on how "Doing is being in treatment" has enabled me to become a competent OT.
Methods / Approach: There were three reflection stages. First, practicing OT without OT thinking seemed wrong, so I pursued a master's degree. Next, I learned from the Huangtu Occupation Study that "Doing is being in treatment" . I applied it but the results were unsatisfactory. I wondered if "doing" is therapeutic. Finally, I witnessed how to engage clients in real-life occupations during home-based OT training, enabling me to reach the OT core reasoning.
Results: Through doing, being and becoming for 5 years, I realized the power of "Doing is being in treatment". Professionally, I have gained the confident to understand the clients’ occupation needs, build rapport with them and improve their occupational performance. Personally, my occupational performance has improved, doing and being is well connected, and I am becoming a person with solid inner power and passion for life.
Conclusion: From questioning what OT truly is to ultimately believing that OT professional reasoning is essential, I have experienced a significant professional transformation. I hope my experiences can inspire students and colleagues to embark on their own journey of doing, being and becoming.