An occupational therapist (OT) is a healthcare provider who specializes in helping people of all ages achieve independence in their daily activities or occupations. This includes dressing, cooking, eating, working, and participating in hobbies. An OT uses adaptive equipment and helps patients of all ages adjust their environment and organize tasks to support their abilities.
An OT typically:
Evaluates a patient's ability to perform activities and creates a customized treatment plan based on medical history, lifestyle, needs, and activity goals
Performs home, school, and job site assessments
Educates patients and teaches them the skills to participate in their activities
Recommends and provides training in the use of adaptive equipment, such as splints, bathing equipment, dressing devices, ergonomic tools and utensils, and specialized computer keyboards
Provides support and guidance to family members and caregivers
Collaborates with other healthcare providers, such as physical therapists, speech therapists, doctors, and social workers
An OT may also be known as a registered occupational therapist (OTR).
There are 2063 specialists practicing Occupational Therapy in Virginia with an overall average rating of 4.3 stars. There are 2 hospitals in Virginia with affiliated Occupational Therapy specialists, including Chippenham Hospital and Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Medical Center.
