Occupational therapist

An occupational therapist helps people who experience problems performing everyday activities. These problems may result from physical or psychological complaints and may occur at home, at work, at school or at a sports club.

The occupational therapist works with the patient to identify what they can still do, either in an adapted way or with assistive devices.

What does an occupational therapist do?

If medication, surgery or other therapies no longer work, the occupational therapist works with the patient to find the best solution. A treatment plan is created by considering what is important to the patient and what is possible.

By identifying limitations and, especially, abilities, the occupational therapist develops a plan to reduce or eliminate barriers.

Occupational therapists perform the following tasks:

• Promoting independence.
• Making adaptations to the home or workplace.
• Training patients to use assistive devices and helping them obtain them.
• Helping patients cope with their limitations.

Who can see an occupational therapist?

Anyone can see an occupational therapist, including children with spasticity or developmental disorders, adults with functional problems caused by an accident or illness, and older adults who want to remain independent at home for as long as possible.

The occupational therapist also educates the patient's environment, since family and caregivers often need to take the limitations into account without neglecting their own well-being. Occupational therapists often work closely with other healthcare providers, including caregivers, family members, physicians and physical therapists.

Occupational therapy has three specializations requiring additional training:

• Occupational therapy for hand problems.
• Occupational therapy for children.
• Occupational therapy for older adults.

Where does an occupational therapist work?

An occupational therapist may work in an occupational therapy practice, hospital, rehabilitation center, school, nursing home or other healthcare facility. Treatment can take place almost anywhere. If someone has problems at work, it is helpful for the occupational therapist to visit the workplace. Occupational therapists also regularly visit schools, people's homes or sports clubs.