But… what is OT?!

Great question, and you're not alone!

Lots of people aren't sure what an OT does. OT isn't occupational health, and it isn't only about work. It does so much more!

Occupational therapy (OT) is an allied health profession that helps people of all ages take part in the everyday activities that matter to them, in ways that suit their age and stage of development.

OTs work collaboratively with the person and, in a child's case, the whole family, to build skills, adapt tasks and support everyday life. It is a holistic profession. For children, that might mean getting dressed, writing, playing, sleeping and managing the school day.

OTs are practical and solution-focused. They draw on knowledge of development, physical and mental health and sensory processing, and how these fit with a person's environment. What looks like simple play or a simple task is often carefully planned assessment or therapy, tailored to the individual.

OTs are university-trained allied health professionals, registered or licensed with a regulatory body in their country. In Australia, that's Ahpra.

OTs work alongside other medical and allied health colleagues, such as GPs, paediatricians, psychiatrists, psychologists, speech pathologists, physiotherapists and dietitians, and with other professionals such as teachers and counsellors.