What is an OT?

Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants work with people experiencing different medical conditions and/or disabilities to develop, improve, restore functional, or maintain daily living skills. Occupational therapy is a science-driven, evidence-based profession.

Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 2003 Definition: Occupational therapy is therapy based on performing the meaningful activities of daily life (self-care skills, education, work, or social interaction), especially to enable or enhance participation in such activities despite impairments or limitations in physical or mental functioning.

Occupational Therapy Fields of Practice and Practice Settings

Fields of Practice refers to the type of occupational therapy service performed and Practice Settings refers to where occupational therapy practitioners work.

Fields of Practice Examples: driver rehab, hand therapy, physical disabilities, gerontology, mental health, pediatrics, sensory integration, work related, and others.

Practice Setting Examples: general acute care hospital, psychiatric hospital, outpatient hospital/clinic, rehabilitation facility, skilled nursing facility, nursing home, chemical abuse center, hospice, private office/clinic.