What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy (OT) is a holistic healthcare profession aimed at helping individuals across the lifespan engage in meaningful activities, or occupations, that promote health, well-being, and participation in daily life. Occupational therapy practitioners work with people of all ages who may be experiencing physical, developmental, social, emotional, or cognitive challenges that interfere with their ability to perform everyday tasks.

• Client-Centered Approach: OT is deeply rooted in the principle of client-centered care. OTs collaborate closely with clients to understand their unique needs, goals, and priorities. This partnership ensures that interventions are tailored to each individual’s specific circumstances, preferences, and abilities.
• Occupation-Based Interventions: Unlike other forms of therapy that focus solely on addressing impairments or deficits, OT emphasizes the therapeutic use of activities and occupations. These may include self-care tasks (e.g., dressing, grooming), productivity tasks (e.g., work, school), and leisure activities (e.g., hobbies, socializing). By engaging in purposeful activities, individuals can improve their skills, regain independence, and enhance their quality of life.
• Holistic Perspective: OT considers the interconnectedness of mind, body, and environment in assessing and addressing clients’ needs. OTs evaluate not only physical abilities but also cognitive, emotional, sensory, and environmental factors that may influence a person’s ability to function optimally.

At Dymond Speech & Rehab we focus on pediatric occupational therapy where we work with children and adolescents to support their development and participation in school, play, and social activities. We address a wide range of issues, including sensory processing difficulties, fine and gross motor delays, developmental delays, and behavioral challenges. We also work with children who are recovering from injuries, surgeries, or illnesses to regain functional independence, mobility, and self-care abilities.

The OT’s at Dymond Speech & Rehab make therapy FUN-ctional while also targeting the underlying issues using activity analysis and adaptation of tasks, environments and equipment; therapeutic exercises & activities; assistive technology and equipment & sensory integration therapy activities which are designed to stimulate or desensitize the senses, promoting better self-regulation and participation in daily activities.

Occupational therapy is a dynamic and diverse profession that empowers individuals to live life to the fullest despite challenges or limitations. By focusing on the meaningful activities that define our lives, we can help children of all ages and abilities achieve their goals, maximize their independence, and thrive in their communities!