Occupational therapist

An occupational therapist helps people who have difficulty performing everyday activities. The problems may result from physical or psychological symptoms and may occur at home, at work, at school or in a sports club.

Together with the patient, the occupational therapist looks at what they can still do, either in an adapted way or with assistive devices.

What does an occupational therapist do?

When medication, surgery or other therapies no longer work, the occupational therapist works with the patient to find the best solution to their problems. A treatment plan is prepared by considering what is important to the patient and what they are capable of doing.

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

Occupational therapists perform the following tasks:

• Promoting independence.
• Adapting the home or workplace.
• Training in the use of assistive devices and applying for them.
• Helping patients cope with their limitations.

Who can see an occupational therapist?

Anyone can see an occupational therapist: a child with spasticity or a developmental disorder, adults with functional problems caused by an accident or illness, or older adults who want to remain independent at home for as long as possible.

The occupational therapist also provides education to the patient's family and support network, who often need to take the limitations into account without neglecting their own well-being. Occupational therapists often work closely with other health care providers, such as caregivers, family members, physicians and physiotherapists.

There are three occupational therapy specialties 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 works in an occupational therapy practice, hospital, rehabilitation centre, school, nursing home or other care institution. Treatment can actually take place 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 and sports clubs.