What Is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy (OT) is a client-centered health profession that helps people of all ages participate in the activities that are meaningful to their daily lives. These activities can include self-care, work, school, play, and leisure. The goal of occupational therapy is to support independence, improve quality of life, and enable individuals to do the things they need and want to do.
Who Can Benefit from Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy supports individuals across the lifespan, including:
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Children with developmental delays, sensory processing challenges, or learning differences
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Adults recovering from injury, surgery, or illness
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Individuals living with physical, cognitive, or emotional disabilities
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Older adults seeking to maintain independence and safety at home
What Does an Occupational Therapist Do?
Occupational therapists work collaboratively with clients to understand their goals, strengths, and challenges. Therapy may involve:
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Developing skills for daily living, such as dressing, cooking, or handwriting
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Improving fine and gross motor skills, coordination, and balance
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Supporting cognitive skills like attention, memory, and problem-solving
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Recommending adaptive equipment or environmental modifications
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Teaching strategies to manage stress, fatigue, or sensory sensitivities
Interventions are always personalized and focused on real-life activities that matter to the individual.
A Holistic and Practical Approach
Occupational therapy looks at the whole person—not just a diagnosis. Therapists consider physical abilities, emotional well-being, social participation, and the environments in which people live, work, and learn. By addressing both personal and environmental factors, occupational therapy creates practical, sustainable solutions.
Empowering Meaningful Living
At its core, occupational therapy is about empowerment. By building skills, adapting tasks, and removing barriers, occupational therapy helps people live fuller, more independent, and more meaningful lives—every day.