In the context of an individual with borderline personality disorder requesting individual therapy, what should the occupational therapist do?

In the context of a person with borderline personality disorder requesting individual therapy, the most appropriate action for the occupational therapist is to refer the patient to the assigned primary individual therapist. This response aligns with the standard practice of ensuring that individuals receive care from clinicians who are specifically trained and certified to address complex psychological needs associated with disorders like borderline personality disorder.

Referring the patient to their primary individual therapist ensures that they receive the most coherent and consistent treatment plan from someone who has established rapport and understands the individual's history, behaviors, and therapeutic needs. This approach also helps maintain clear boundaries regarding the occupational therapist's role and responsibilities, which is crucial in therapeutic settings to avoid dual relationships and ensure proper therapeutic focus.

In this case, meeting privately with the patient or providing ongoing support outside of a structured therapeutic relationship could blur professional boundaries and complicate treatment. Simply looking for alternate therapists within the program could hinder continuity of care and may not be in the best interest of the patient's therapeutic journey. Therefore, the action of referring to the primary therapist is grounded in a patient-centered approach that emphasizes coherent, professional, and specialized support.