The Kawa Model

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Michael Iwama: Understanding the Kawa Model

Recognizing the need for a theory of occupational therapy developed outside of Western cultures, Michael Iwama, PhD, OTC, associate professor at the University of Toronto, with occupational therapy practitioners in Japan, created the Kawa Model. The model asks clients to draw a river representing their lives; driftwood, waterfalls, rocks and other objects portray obstacles and various events throughout life. It is a model that can and has been translated to fit individuals of all backgrounds.

Hear what Michael Iwama has to say about the development of the Kawa Model, the need for it and its reception thus far.

"No matter what model one uses, it's important to try to appreciate what daily life looks like through the eyes of the client." - Michael Iwama

Applying the Kawa Model

Since its inception, the Kawa Model has been widely received by OTs, OTAs and OT students throughout the world. Among those who have chosen to study the model are Don Paxson, Sarah Johnston and Tom Tobey, graduate students at the University of Southern Maine, Lewiston. They recently spoke with ADVANCE about their research and views on the Kawa Model.

"Culture is defined in many different ways. It's not the way you look. I have an individual culture of my own, so just interacting with different cultures even within the same race or background... My experience is much different than yours." - Tom Tobey

Illustrating the Flow of Life

To better demonstrate the Kawa Model, we asked one of ADVANCE's illustrators, Dave Perillo, to draw us his river. A new father and long-time artist, this is how he interpreted the theory.

"At this point in my life, there are a few obstacles - I guess you could say some rocks and logs - especially with trying to juggle work and my family. But Sam, my son, and my wife Tracy, they make it all worth it. I don't mind hitting a few rocks."
- Dave Perillo

Videos Archives

Hi, I am an OT student currently on placement at a Children's Disability Service in the UK. I am intersted in using the Kawa model in relation to linking theory with practice for university work, and would be interested to hear if anyone has used this model with children, or adapted it for this use. kind regards, fay

Fay Renton, OT Student	October 24, 2010
Newcastle upon Tyne

Thank you all for taking the time to view these video clips. If you would like some more information, please have a look at the following free on-line resources.

http://facebook.com/KawaModel
http://tinyurl.com/kawasitemap

http://www.kawamodel.com
http://kawamodel.phpbbnow.com

Michael Iwama

Michael Iwama, Professor, University of Toronto	August 28, 2010
Toronto, CA

I used the Kawa Model for the first time whilst undertaking a mental health practice placement (in-service degree). I introduced the Kawa Model to a young man as part of the initial interview process. Asking him to draw a picture of a rive to represent his life, and then a cross section of how his life is now. This client was very creative and had a strong interest in Eastern culture. It worked very well, and gave me a very clear picture of his life flow (or lack of it!) and areas (goals for intervention). I am planning to write a research proposal based on the introduction of the Kawa Model to a cliets at a mental health day hospital. Any comments/feedback about the use of the Kawa would be appreciated!

Beki Dellow, Student Occupational Therapist, Day Hopsital (Placement)	December 08, 2009
Harrogate

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