What Do Occupational Therapists Do? 

Published on: February 18, 2025

Occupational therapy (OT) is a vital healthcare profession focused on helping people of all ages lead independent, fulfilling lives. Occupational therapists work with patients to enhance their ability to perform daily activities — whether recovering from injury, managing chronic health conditions or addressing developmental challenges.   

Read on to discover what OTs do and how to become one, along with their essential role in healthcare. 

What Is Occupational Therapy?  

Occupational therapy is a healthcare profession that helps individuals develop, recover or maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. OTs work with patients and clients of all ages, addressing physical, emotional and cognitive challenges that may hinder independence. Through personalized treatment plans, they assist with tasks such as dressing, cooking or returning to work after an injury. Occupational therapy aims to improve quality of life by fostering independence and the ability to participate in everyday activities. 

The Importance of Occupational Therapy  

Occupational therapy plays a critical part in helping individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life. By addressing physical, mental and emotional challenges, OTs enable patients to perform daily activities that may otherwise be difficult or impossible. This personalized approach not only aids in recovery from injury or illness but also supports those with chronic health conditions or developmental disabilities. The importance of occupational therapy lies in its ability to empower patients to lead more fulfilling, productive lives. 

Duties and Responsibilities of OTs

Occupational therapists' duties are aimed at helping patients achieve greater independence. Their responsibilities include evaluating patients' needs, providing treatment and offering education and support to patients and their families. OTs assume a central role in developing personalized care plans to address both short- and long-term goals. 

Assessing and Evaluation  

Assessment and evaluation are key responsibilities of occupational therapists. OTs begin by conducting thorough assessments to understand a patient’s physical, mental and emotional capabilities. They evaluate factors such as:  

• Mobility 

• Strength 

• Coordination 

• Cognitive function 

• Ability to perform daily tasks 

Based on these assessments, OTs develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs and goals. This process ensures that interventions are effective and that patients receive the support necessary to improve their independence and quality of life. 

Intervention and Treatment 

Intervention and treatment are central to an occupational therapist’s role. OTs implement therapeutic activities designed to help patients improve motor skills, cognitive function and overall independence. These activities may include exercises, role-playing or tasks that simulate daily activities. Additionally, OTs teach patients how to use adaptive equipment — such as wheelchairs, splints or modified tools — to enhance their ability to perform everyday tasks. The goal of these interventions is to help patients regain or maintain functional abilities and achieve their personal goals. 

Patient Education and Support  

Patient education and support are essential aspects of an occupational therapist's role. OTs educate patients and their families about the nature of their condition, treatment options and strategies for daily living. They provide guidance on how to use adaptive equipment and modify environments to increase independence. Along with practical education, OTs offer emotional and psychological support, helping patients cope with the challenges of recovery or adapting to new limitations. This holistic approach helps patients and families feel empowered and confident throughout the rehabilitation process.  

Work Environments for OTs 

According to the Occupational Therapy Association, occupational therapists work in a wide range of settings — each offering unique opportunities to support patients. From hospitals and clinics to schools, home health services and workplace environments, OTs are involved in diverse aspects of healthcare and rehabilitation. These varied work environments allow OTs to tailor their approach based on the needs of different populations, in turn ensuring that individuals receive the best possible care and support in their specific circumstances. 

Hospitals and Clinics  

In hospitals and clinics, occupational therapists work with patients recovering from surgeries, injuries or illnesses. They assist individuals with regaining functional abilities such as mobility, fine motor skills and cognitive function. OTs collaborate with other healthcare professionals to create comprehensive treatment plans, often focusing on rehabilitation to help patients return to daily activities. Whether in an inpatient or outpatient setting, OTs in hospitals and clinics play a crucial role in improving recovery outcomes and elevating a patient's quality of life. 

Schools and Educational Institutions  

In schools and educational institutions, occupational therapists support students with physical, cognitive or developmental challenges that affect their ability to learn. OTs assess students’ needs and work with educators to develop strategies and accommodations to promote success in the classroom. They may provide interventions to improve fine motor skills, sensory processing or attention that help students engage in activities like writing, typing or participating in group work. The goal is to create an inclusive learning environment that allows all students to thrive. 

Home Health Services  

In home health services, occupational therapists provide care to patients in their own homes, helping them regain independence in daily activities. OTs assess the home environment and make recommendations for modifications to improve safety and accessibility. They work with patients on activities like dressing, cooking or bathing, often using adaptive equipment or techniques to make tasks easier. This setting allows OTs to deliver personalized care — focusing on the patient's unique needs and goals while promoting a comfortable and familiar environment for recovery. 

Workplace Settings  

In the workplace, occupational therapists help employees manage physical, mental or cognitive challenges that impact their job performance. OTs assess workstations, tasks and workflows to recommend adjustments or modifications that improve ergonomics and productivity. They also provide strategies to reduce work-related injuries and help employees adapt to new roles or return to work after an injury. Through fostering a healthier, more supportive work environment, OTs contribute to employee well-being and enhance overall workplace efficiency. 

Challenges of an Occupational Therapy Career  

While an occupational therapy career can be rewarding, it also comes with its challenges. OTs often work with patients facing complex physical, emotional and cognitive issues, requiring patience and adaptability. The workload can be physically demanding, too, as therapists frequently assist with patient mobility or demonstrate activities. Additionally, managing caseloads, navigating insurance requirements and coordinating care with other healthcare professionals can be time-consuming. Nevertheless, many OTs find the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives to be incredibly gratifying.  

The Path to Becoming an Occupational Therapist 

Becoming an occupational therapist calls for a combination of education, clinical experience and licensure:  

Educational Requirements  

To become an occupational therapist, individuals must first complete a master's degree in occupational therapy from an accredited program. This typically includes coursework in anatomy, psychology and rehabilitation techniques as well as follows the completion of a bachelor’s degree in a related field (such as psychology or biology). The occupational therapy program includes both coursework and supervised fieldwork to develop practical skills and hands-on experience. 

Licensure and Certifications  

After earning a master’s degree in occupational therapy, graduates must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to become licensed. OTs must obtain state licensure as well, which may have varying requirements depending on location. Some states also require continuing education to maintain certification and licensure, plus stay updated on the latest practices and techniques in the field.  

Master Your Occupational Therapy Skills at Husson 

Occupational therapists are integral to improving lives as individuals regain independence and achieve personal goals. From performing patient assessments to delivering treatment and support, OTs make a meaningful impact in various healthcare settings.   

Interested in pursuing an occupational therapy career? Husson University’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT program) offers the comprehensive education and hands-on experience needed to succeed. Request further information to learn more about how you can start your journey toward becoming an occupational therapist today. 

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