What is occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy focuses on everyday life
Occupational therapy (OT) is a regulated health and social care profession that helps people take part in the everyday activities that matter to them. The aim is not simply to treat a diagnosis. It is to understand how a person’s health, abilities, routines and environment affect what they need or want to do.
In occupational therapy, an occupation is any meaningful everyday activity. It is not limited to paid employment. Occupations may include:
- Washing, dressing, preparing meals and managing at home
- Working, studying, volunteering or caring for other people
- Getting out into the community and using transport
- Exercising, socialising, pursuing hobbies and taking part in family life
The Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) explains that occupational therapy helps people overcome challenges with the activities they want and need to do, with wellbeing and participation at the centre.
What does an occupational therapist do?
An occupational therapist works with you to identify the activities that have become difficult and understand why. They consider the relationship between the person, the activity and the environment, then develop practical strategies around your priorities.
An assessment may involve:
- Listening to your goals, strengths and concerns
- Assessing physical function, cognition, fatigue, confidence and safety
- Observing everyday activities at home, at work or in the community
- Identifying barriers within tasks or environments
- Recommending rehabilitation, new techniques, equipment or adaptations
- Creating measurable goals and reviewing progress over time
The World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) describes occupational therapy as supporting health and wellbeing through participation in meaningful occupations.
How can occupational therapy help?
Adults may benefit from occupational therapy when illness, injury or a neurological condition affects independence, confidence or participation in daily life. ProActive Therapy can support people experiencing:
- Stroke or acquired brain injury
- Concussion and persistent post-concussion symptoms
- Fatigue, cognitive changes or reduced confidence
- Difficulty managing personal care, household or community activities
- Challenges returning to work, education, sport or valued roles
- Long-term neurological or complex health conditions
Support is available through home and community visits across Liverpool and Merseyside, with remote sessions across the UK where appropriate.
What happens when you contact us?
- Initial conversation: We discuss what is happening, what matters to you and whether occupational therapy is appropriate.
- Assessment: We explore your abilities, daily activities, environment and goals.
- Personalised plan: You receive practical recommendations and an agreed rehabilitation plan.
- Review: Progress is monitored and the plan is adjusted as your needs change.
You can contact ProActive Therapy directly without a GP referral. We also accept appropriate referrals from families, case managers, solicitors, insurers and healthcare professionals.
Learn more about occupational therapy
For further independent information about the profession, visit:
Royal College of Occupational Therapists: What is occupational therapy?
World Federation of Occupational Therapists: About occupational therapy
ProActive Therapy provides person-centred occupational therapy designed around the activities, roles and goals that are important to each individual.