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Occupational Therapy uses a range of therapeutic techniques to provide life-changing outcomes for adults and children who have limitations in doing their daily activities or participating in school or work. This may be due to illness, injury, disability, or life circumstances. Occupational Therapy can be applied in a range of settings and might include making modifications to the home, office, school or community environment to improve access, function, and participation. The practice also involves helping patients to attain their goals, which might be independent living, using assistive technology, and participation in out of home activities. It is considered an Allied Health Field and may be provided to patients as part of an integrated health care plan, involving rehabilitation, recovery or long-term management.

Occupational Therapy Jobs

Occupational Therapists (OTs) work with people of all ages. They evaluate their needs, and use a variety of activities, therapies, interventions, and special equipment to help their clients develop (or recover), improve, and maintain the skills they need to look after themselves and attain their goals. OTs help children develop fine motor skills to improve handwriting, or help adults recover gross motor or cognitive skills after a brain injury. For people who have suffered functional decline as a result of accident, injury, disability, disease or age – OTs can help modify their living environment so they can move around more easily and achieve more every day. OTs have completed a 3-year university degree in Occupational Therapy, or a master’s degree following a relevant health/science degree, or an apprenticeship degree. They are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).