How we can help

What's occupational therapy?

Occupational therapy helps you live your best life at home, at work – and everywhere else. It’s about being able to do the things you want and have to do. That could mean helping you overcome challenges learning at school, going to work, playing sport or simply doing the dishes. Everything is focused on your wellbeing and your ability to participate in activities.

It’s also a science-based, health and social care profession that’s regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council.

Who do occupational therapists work with?

Occupational therapists work with adults and children of all ages who have a wide range of conditions.

Most commonly, they help those living with mental health conditions, or physical or learning disabilities. And you’ll find them helping people live their best life in health organisations, social care services, housing, education and voluntary organisations.

Many occupational therapists practice independently too and work with members of the public, asylum seekers and refugees, alongside the police or fire services, or with psychiatric services.

Children and young people

Occupational therapists help babies, infants, children and young people grow, learn, have fun, socialise and play – so they can develop, thrive and reach their full potential. 

The focus can be on self-care, like getting dressed and ready to go out, eating a meal or using the toilet - increasing independence. It can be around being productive – going to nursery or school (e.g. packing up the bag, copying from the board, handwriting), or volunteering. It could simply be about improving their ability to play with friends, compete in sports (working on underlying motor skills), or participate in hobbies. 

Underlying all of these is our ability to self-regulate. A big focus of our intervention is helping children and young people, and the adults around them, to understand our 8 different senses and how they affect our energy levels and ability to regulate. 

Adapted from the RCOT Website - https://www.rcot.co.uk/about-occupational-therapy/what-is-occupational-therapy