In layman’s language, occupational therapy (OT) is treating injured, ill or disabled people through the therapeutic use of everyday activities like easy muscle movements made with the hands and fingers, such as grasping. Its aim is to improve hand-eye coordination and enhancing cognitive skills.
Who might benefit from Occupational Therapy?
Some patients include children who were born with autism. The child might need help getting ready in the morning or perhaps has difficulties coping with pattern changes. The child would visit an occupational therapy clinic to improve sensory regulation, motor skills, and communication skills.
A young adult diagnosed with ADHD. The teenager might have trouble focusing in school, seeing a task to completion, and making friends. The treatment administered at an occupational therapy clinic might include exercise to improve attention, impulses, memory control, planning, time management, and engaging social skills.
The third group is Adults who have been diagnosed with clinical depression and anxiety. The treatment would major in helping the patient gain coping skills, develop and maintain healthier habits, and get back to their social activities. Anxiety and depression might see an OT to gain coping skills, develop healthier habits, and learn how to manage symptoms fully in work, leisure, and social activities.
An older patient who has suffered a stroke or an accident might go to an occupational therapy clinic to improve strength, endurance, range of motion and be educated on how to use adaptive equipment to do the day-to-day activities.
What to look for while looking for an Occupational Therapist?
Choosing an occupational therapist is a crucial stage in the healing journey. One must carefully consider a therapist who will be a perfect fit for them. Here are some things to consider while looking for an occupational therapist.
- Does the individual (OT) have vast experience in the area of practice you need assistance?
- Where are they situated? Can the occupational therapist travel to you, your child, or to a destination, agree? How long is their commute to you?
- Do you feel comfortable and connected with the occupational therapist?
- How much will it cost for the entire program? Does the occupational therapist clinic have a funding scheme?
- What type of sessions do they offer? Will it be a one-on-one session or a group-based program?
Traits of an excellent Occupational Therapist
A good occupation therapist must harness these qualities:
Excellent communication skills
A great occupational therapist must listen to what their patients want and eloquently explain what the patients need.
Must be Flexible
Occupational therapists must be flexible with their time. Readily available to attend to the clients.
Yield Patience
A good occupational therapist must be patient. Dealing with hurting people might be a little frustrating, but a good therapist must serve in patience to provide quality care.
Must Dispense compassion.
Occupational therapists must show compassion to all their patients, serving them with gentleness and joy. The therapist must know when and how to interact with the clients to ensure the clients feel safe.
Conclusion
When you first make an appointment with an occupation therapist, they will perform an evaluation to gauge your status. They will then indulge you in setting realistic goals you will undertake in the process. 99.9% of all patients who follow through with the program make a complete recovery in all their condition.
