Occupational therapists are healthcare professionals who evaluate and treat people who have injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. They help clients meet goals to develop, recover, improve, and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. Occupational therapy (OT) is an allied health profession that involves the therapeutic use of everyday activities, or occupations, to treat the physical, mental, developmental, and emotional ailments that impact a patient’s ability to perform daily tasks. Here are some of the roles and responsibilities of occupational therapists:

• Assessment: Occupational therapists work with patients to identify challenges, develop goals, and come up with ways to help them meet those goals. They evaluate patients and determine goals for treatment, customize treatment to each patient’s current ability and goals, and re-evaluate patients to ensure goals are being met.

• Interventions: Occupational therapists use a variety of interventions to help patients improve their ability to perform daily tasks. They may plan treatment programs and teach patients how to use adaptive equipment.

• Evaluations and outcomes: Occupational therapists evaluate patients and determine whether their goals are being met. They adjust treatment plans to reflect changes in ability.

Occupational therapists work with patients of all ages, from premature babies to young children, adults in midlife, and seniors. They work with doctors, nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapy assistants, and other team members to treat patients. Occupational therapists must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, be compassionate, patient, and have a desire to help others improve their lives.