Occupational therapy enables people to achieve health, well being and life satisfaction through participation in occupation
"Occupational Therapy is the assessment and treatment of physical and psychiatric conditions using specific, purposeful activity to prevent disability and promote independent function in all aspects of daily life."
NHS Careers
Some key facts about Occupational Therapy (OT)
OTs work with a range of people including those who have physical, mental and/or social problems, either from birth or as the result of accident, illness or ageing and are aware of the impact that change in circumstances can have on individuals' independence and confidence.
OTs will work with a person to design a programme of treatment based on the individual's unique lifestyle and preferences, sometimes modifying the environment surrounding the person. Enhancing someone's ability to participate in everyday activities is a central part of occupational therapy.
OTs recognise and understand that everyone's lifestyle is different and how each person chooses to live is up to them. They will consider the importance of how a person's physical, mental and social needs will impact on their recovery process and help them to achieve the goals that are most important to them.
Work settings
- NHS and private hospitals
- Person's own home Private practice
- Local community services e.g. GP practices
- Social services and social work departments
- Charities and voluntary agencies
- Equipment companies
- Government agencies
- Housing departments
- Industrial and commercial organisations
- Schools and colleges
- Wheelchair services
Practice area / specialisms
- Coping with stress and anxiety
- Alcohol and substance misuse
- Assistive technology services
- Burns, plastic surgery
- Cardiac rehabilitation
- Care management
- Community disability services
- Community mental health teams
- Eating disorders
- Employment rehabilitatio
