What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy is a specialized discipline that helps an individual participate in the daily “occupations” that are necessary for life.

In some cases, Occupational therapists are known for improving muscular and motor function following an injury/illness as well as making adaptations to one’s environment and lifestyle in an effort to reduce pain and promote accessibility.

In other cases, Occupational therapists are known for working with children to achieve academic, social, and emotional needs, whether it be in the home or school setting.

Pediatric population: Occupational Therapists work with children with diagnoses including, but not limited to, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Emotional Disturbance, Sensory Processing Disorder, etc. Occupational therapists have many successes with improving a child’s focus, sleep patterns, eating habits, behavior sensory processing, handwriting and other fine motor skills.

Geriatric population: Occupational therapists help seniors improve or maintain basic motor skills, strength, range of motor, dexterity, and mobility. Occupational therapy also provides home modifications to facilitate safety and accessibility.