Occupational therapy 101

Occupational therapy, physiotherapy, osteopathy - it all becomes a bit confusing. We break down the A-B-Cs of occupational therapy so you know what to expect from your first consultation.

What is occupational therapy?

The role of occupational therapy is:

• To promote health and well being through occupation (mum, dad, husband, carer)
• To enable people to participate in the activities of everyday life
• Working with people and communities to enhance their ability to engage in the occupations they want to, need to, or are expected to do, by modifying the occupation or the environment to better support their occupational engagement

How do occupational therapists work?

Assessment

The occupational therapy process is based on initial and repeated assessments. The occupational therapist, together with the person they are working with, focus on individual and environmental abilities and problems related to activities in the person's daily life.

Assessment includes the use of:

• standardised procedures
• interviews
• observations in a variety of settings
• consultation with significant people in the person's life

Planning

The results of the assessment are the basis of the plan which includes short and long-term aims of treatment.

The plan should be relevant to the persons:

• development stage
• habits
• roles
• lifestyle preferences
• the environment

Intervention

Intervention focuses on programs that are person-oriented and environmental. These are designed to facilitate the performance of everyday tasks and adaptation of settings in which the person works, lives and socialises.

Examples include:

• teaching new techniques
• providing equipment that facilitates independence in personal care
• reducing environmental barriers
• providing resources to lessen stress

Collaboration

Occupational therapists recognise the importance of teamwork.

For a holistic approach they cooperate and coordinate with:

• other professionals
• family members
• caregivers
• volunteers

Occupational therapists will work with you to improve your well-being so we encourage clients to be open and honest with their clinician to ensure they get the best out of this valuable service.

Learn more about our occupational therapy services

If you want to learn more about Occupational Therapy, or would like to arrange an assessment, please get in touch with our support office today.