What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy (OT) is a client-centred healthcare profession focused on helping individuals of all ages overcome physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges so they can live more independently and participate in the daily activities that matter most to them.
At its core, OT is about function and purpose—enabling people to do the things they need or want to do in everyday life, from getting dressed and preparing meals, to returning to work, socialising, or enjoying hobbies.
How Does Occupational Therapy Help?
Occupational therapists work with people whose ability to function has been affected by:
Neurological conditions (such as stroke, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s)
Physical injury or illness
Mental health difficulties
Learning or developmental differences
Age-related changes
Long-term or progressive conditions
Rather than focusing solely on a diagnosis, OTs assess how a condition impacts someone’s ability to live well day-to-day. Therapy is then tailored to support the person's goals, routines, and environment.
Areas Occupational Therapy Can Support
Depending on individual needs, occupational therapy may include:
Re-learning everyday tasks such as dressing, cooking, or using transport
Improving fine motor skills, strength, balance, or coordination
Cognitive strategies for memory, attention, or planning
Emotional and behavioural support for coping with change or loss
Environmental adaptations such as equipment, home modifications, or assistive technology
Fatigue and pain management
Workplace or education support including return-to-work planning
Advice for carers and families
The therapist may also collaborate with physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, psychologists, social workers, and case managers as part of a wider team.
A Personalised Approach
No two people are the same, and neither is occupational therapy. Whether someone is recovering from an illness or injury, managing a long-term condition, or adapting to new life circumstances, an OT works collaboratively to:
Understand what’s important to the person
Identify strengths and barriers
Develop achievable, meaningful goals
Support progress toward greater independence, safety, and well-being
Who Might Benefit?
Occupational therapy can be helpful for adults, children, or older people who are:
Recovering from a stroke or brain injury
Living with neurological or physical conditions
Experiencing reduced mobility, memory, or confidence
Navigating mental health challenges
Adjusting to new roles or life stages
In Summary
Occupational therapy empowers people to live life their way—with greater independence, dignity, and confidence. By combining practical strategies, therapeutic techniques, and environmental adjustments, OTs help individuals regain control and meaning in everyday life.
Let me know if you'd like this rewritten in a particular tone (e.g. more friendly, clinical, or child-focused), or broken into sections for different services (like adult neuro OT, paediatrics, or mental health).