Occupational therapists (OTs) are qualified health professionals, trained to assist people to overcome limitations caused by injury or illness, psychological or emotional difficulties, developmental delay or the effects of ageing. They assist people to move from dependence to independence, maximising their personal productivity, well-being and quality of life.

Occupational therapists work with:

• Children
• Older people
• Mental health
• Disability/NDIS
• Driving
• Rehabilitation
• Other areas

Regardless of the area, occupational therapists work with people to enable effective participation in the occupations of everyday life, including:

• Activities of daily living: Showering, dressing, grooming and eating
• Household and community functioning: Home maintenance, driving, budgeting, shopping and community mobility
• Education: Activities which allow a person to participate effectively in a learning environment
• Leisure and play: Reading, knitting and playing sport
• Social participation: Interacting positively with others in the community
• Work: Participating in employment and volunteer activities

Occupational therapists also assess and recommend assistive technology/environmental modifications that assist individuals to engage in the occupations of everyday life.