What is Occupational Therapy?

sensory processing

Occupational therapy (or OT) is used when someone is having difficulty with everyday tasks, that is, the tasks that occupy them. An occupational therapist can identify their strengths and difficulties, such as dressing or getting to the shops, and will help them work out practical solutions. They are often called OTs.

If you or a loved one see an OT, they can help you maintain, regain or improve your independence by using different techniques, changing your environment and using new equipment.

OTs work with people of any age, including children and older people, to help them do things that ‘occupy’ their time. These can include:

  • Looking after yourself

  • Work or school

  • Social activities

  • Being part of your community

 

We chatted to our new Paediatric Occupational Therapist Abigail Spanner regarding children who may benefit from seeing an OT.

Having worked with a variety of children with a range of diagnoses, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Cerebral Palsy Intellectual Disabilities, behavioural concerns, ADHD, OCD, ODD, learning and social skills delay and more. ⁠

“This can often be viewed as the child having frequent meltdowns in busy and loud environments, being called a ‘picky eater’ or difficulty paying attention during class time. ⁠ ⁠

Working out a child’s ‘Sensory Profile’ and assisting them to develop strategies within their everyday life can give a child the tools to help succeed in their everyday interactions.” ⁠ ⁠

As an Occupational Therapist, Abigail is able to help assist children to integrate sensory strategies.

To book or to learn more, please call Medical on Miami on 07 5576 5832