What is OT?

Occupational Therapy helps people of all ages participate in the things they want or need to do in their lives (i.e., occupations). These may include things like making meals, dressing, managing medications, driving, going to school or work, playing, or caring for others. Occupational Therapy addresses the physical, psychological, and cognitive aspects of a person’s well-being and improves function through engagement in everyday activities.

The goal of occupational therapy is to support participation and performance in daily occupations.

Occupational Therapy Practitioners do this by teaching the person the skills to do the occupation, modifying or changing the occupation itself, and/or adapting the environment to support performance of the occupation.

The practice of OT includes:

• Restoration of a skill or ability that has not yet developed or is impaired
• Modification of an activity or environment to enhance performance and independence
• Assisting in developing habits and routines to foster a sense of purpose and support a wellness lifestyle
• Improving community participation through skills training, real life practice and connection with community- based supports
• Teaching and supporting coping strategies
• Training of communication and social skills