Occupational
therapists

Description

Occupational therapists work with people who have a physical or learning disability or mental illness, actively engaging them in purposeful activities in order to maximise self-confidence, independent functioning and well-being.

Tasks

considers the physical, psychological and social needs of a patient that may result from illness, injury, congenital condition or lifestyle problems devises, designs, initiates and monitors carefully selected and graded treatments and activities as part of the assessment and intervention process liaises with a wide variety of other professionals in planning and reviewing ongoing treatments trains students and supervises the work of occupational therapy assistants makes home visits to clients, families and carers to organise support and rehabilitation and assist them to deal and cope with disability counsels clients in ways to promote a healthy lifestyle, prevention of illness and/or preparation for coping with increasing stages of illness maintains patient records, manages caseloads.

Educational Requirements

Entrants usually possess A levels/H grades, an Advanced GNVQ/GSVQ Level III, a BTEC/SQA award or equivalent qualifications followed by training on an approved degree scheme necessary for state registration as an occupational therapist. There is a minimum age limit of 18 years to enter training.