Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy is a client-centered health profession concerned with promoting health and well-being through occupation. The primary goal of Occupational Therapy is to enable people to participate in the activities of everyday life. Occupational therapists achieve this outcome by working with people and communities to enhance their ability to engage in the occupations they want to, need to, or are expected to do, or by modifying the occupation or the environment to better support their occupational engagement.

History

The profession of Occupational Therapy has evolved over the years. The philosophy of occupational therapy has evolved from the moral treatment era in the 18th century to the current era of evidence-based practice. The profession has grown and developed in response to societal needs.

Practice

Occupational therapists work with people of all ages and can look at all aspects of daily life. From the home to the school or workplace, occupational therapists can help people to carry out the necessary and meaningful activities (occupations) of life.

Education and Licensing

In order to become an occupational therapist, one must complete an accredited occupational therapy educational program and pass a national certification examination. In addition, most states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination.

See Also

• Physical Therapy
• Speech Therapy
• Rehabilitation (neuropsychology)
• Rehabilitation (medicine)

External Links

• American Occupational Therapy Association
• World Federation of Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapy Resources
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