Introduction: Mental health is not just the absence of mental disorders, it encompasses a broader state of general well-being. It is reflected in our emotional, psychological and social well-being and in the way we percieve ourselves, others and the world around us. Occupational therapy services are provided to habilitate, rehabilitate and promote health and well-being in users. Community treatment is a network of interdisciplinary services providing health and social care, job training, employment, education, supported accommodation and other rehabilitation services. Aim: The aim was to identify the role of occupational therapy in community treatment. Methodology: A literature review was conducted in January 2025 in the databases CINAHL, Medline, Pub Med and Cobiss. Articles were searched using keywords in English and Slovenian. We also used a manual reference check, which allowed us to consult additional literature. We selected articles according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: 10 articles were included in the final analysis. Based on the thematic analysis of the articles, three main themes have been identified, namely the role of occupational therapy in community treatment, the effectiveness of occupational therapy in community treatment and the impact of community occupational therapy on the user. Discussion and conclusion: Occupational therapy in community treatment is moving drom traditional health care settings to non-traditional settings where occupational therapists work with communities, not just for them. Occupational therapy practice in community treatment differs from hospital practice as it requires involvement in the community and an understanding of its needs. The effectiveness of occupational therapy in community treatment is evaluated through social inclusion and work ability of people with mental disorders. It is important to work together, to adapt to the needs of the user and to establish an equal relationship between users and therapists. There is also the possibility of integrating occupational therapy for preventive and promotional purposes. Research shows that occupational therapy in community treatment plays a key role in improving the quality of life of people with mental disorders.
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