Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy is a regulated health profession that requires a Master’s degree. Occupational Therapists must obtain a Master’s of Science, and it is during that time that we learn extensively about the art and science of the human experience. OT’s are trained to promote participation and engagement of meaningful activities that give people’s lives purpose. It is considered a holistic health profession, as the core tenants are rooted in the following - physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social wellness. Our therapies and understanding of how to support someone comes from the knowing that all parts of our wellness are connected to each other. Rather than inquiring about one aspect of health and wellness, occupational therapists look at the whole person.
Occupation in Occupational Therapy refers to the “everyday activities that people do as individuals, families, and communities that bring purpose and meaning to life”. Following the assessments - which is the term we give to inquiry into who are client is as a person, we create in-depth and comprehensive therapy plans to address the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and social wellness of the people we serve.
Due to Occupational therapists expansive knowledge of a variety of different therapies, we work within numerous settings. This includes:
Schools
Hospitals
Penitentiaries
Home Care
Mental Health facilities
Rehabilitation Center
Out-patient Clinics
Nursing Homes
Occupational Therapists work with many different clients as well. Oftentimes, the reason people are referred to OT is for different diagnostic reasons. For example, their child or teen has been diagnosed with autism, FASD, ADHD, cerebral palsy, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), selective mutism, addiction, depression, or anxiety.
Adults will be referred to OT for many of the same reasons listed above such as depression, addictions, autism, post-surgery rehabilitation and other reasons such as workplace ergonomics and chronic pain.
The scope of occupational therapy is vast. With such a variety of clients and settings - it can be difficult to have a clear definition of what the profession entails. One thing is for certain - the best occupational therapists have expertise in understanding their clients mind, body and soul, leading them into their most meaningful life.
