Occupational therapy is a health care profession. Its goal is to help people with physical, developmental, or emotional disabilities lead independent, productive, and satisfying lives.

An occupational therapist (OT) is part of a rehab team. They often direct these types of care:

• They evaluate children with developmental or neuromuscular problems. They help plan treatments that will help people grow mentally, socially, and physically.
• They help adults learn how to do activities of daily living (ADLs). This includes at home, on the job, and in the community.
• They help the elderly adjust to the special problems of aging while remaining physically and mentally active.
• They advise changes in layout and design of the home, school, or workplace to give people with disabilities greater access and mobility.
• They teach energy conservation and work simplification methods.
• They help improve communication skills, such as reading, writing, and using the phone. They help people learn the coping skills they need if they are diagnosed with a new health condition.

OTs work in settings such as:

• Hospitals.
• Inpatient rehab centers.
• Outpatient rehab centers.
• Schools.
• Long-term care facilities.
• Home care settings.
• Private practice.

OTs hold a master's or doctoral degree. They are certified by the American Occupational Therapy Association.