Occupational therapists develop individual and group programs with people affected by illness, injury, developmental disorders, emotional or psychological problems and ageing to maintain, restore or increase their ability to care for themselves and to engage in work, school or leisure.

Occupational therapists perform some or all of the following duties:

Analyze clients' capabilities/expectations related to life activities through observation, interviews, and formal assessments;

Develop intervention programs which address clients' performance in self-care, work, and leisure activities;

Establish group and individual plans to maximize their clients' performance, working as a sole practitioner or as a member of an interdisciplinary team;

Maintain client records;

Consult and advise on health promotion programs, disease and disability prevention and working at maximizing independent function in all life activities;

Supervise support personnel/students and provide training;

May specialize in working with a specific age group (children, elderly people), or with persons with distinct problems (dementia, traumatic brain injury, chronic pain, learning disabilities);

May provide special programs such as return-to-work programs.

Clinical Occupational Therapy Specialist
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapist - Rehabilitation Consultant
Research Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists work in health care facilities, schools, and private or social service agencies, or may be self-employed.