Page 4 - Whidbey performance occupational therphy clinic

About our occupational therapy clinic

What is occupational therapy

Occupational therapy is a health and rehabilitation profession.

Occupational therapists work with people of all ages who need

specialized assistance to lead independent, productive, and satisfy-

ing lives due to physical, developmental, social, or emotional prob-

lems.

Occupational therapists use the "occupations" of self-care, work,

and play/leisure activities to increase independence, enhance de-

velopment, and/or prevent disability.

To achieve these goals occupational therapists may also adapt the

task or the environment.

occupational therapy the same as physical therapy?

No, they are not the same. The occupational therapist helps peo-

ple of all ages (from newborns to older adults) who have an illness

or disability to do those things that are important and meaningful

to them such as eating, dressing, school activities, and work.

The occupational therapist helps by making changes in any of the

things that may limit an individual's ability to do those tasks, in-

cluding the environment, the task, or the person's skills needed for

the task. Occupational therapists also have the knowledge and

training to work with people with a mental illness or emotional

problems such as depression and/or stress.

Where do occupational therapists work?

Occupational therapists work in a variety of settings. These could

include hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing facilities, home

health, outpatient clinics, private practice, school systems, private

organizations, industry, and community agencies