Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist

As an Occupational Therapist, you will help people to overcome barriers caused by illness, trauma, accidents, disability, or age-related challenges. You will support patients with everyday tasks or occupations that will build confidence and guide them towards a more independent life.

You will create individual treatment plans and implement changes to the environment of each patience. This can take place at home, school or work. In fact, you may need to introduce specialist equipment in order to help with some activities. It will be essential to review the treatments periodically and evaluate the plan every step of the way.

Responsibilities

• understand the lifestyle and personal goals for each patient
• understand the barriers they are facing
• consider all of their needs (physical, social, psychological and environmental)
• determine what support is required
• create a plan which includes realistic goals and meaningful outcomes and
• assess, plan, implement and evaluate support plans in hospital and community settings
• liaise with other professionals, such as doctors, physiotherapists, social workers, equipment suppliers and architects
• liaise with the families, teachers, carers and employers for each patient
• keep up-to-date written and electronic records
• refer patients to other specialists when needed

Personal qualities that will help you become an occupational therapist

• caring and compassionate
• excellent communication skills
• persuasive and motivational
• good time-management skills
• problem-solving skills