So...what is OT?

The term ‘occupation’ is not just referring to what someone does for work, it is a term used to describe all of the everyday things we do in our life roles, but also the things we do to be who we are, the things we do to create a meaningful life and to engage in our wider society and culture. 

Thats a lot...we know! So, here are some common areas that OT's provide support with in the community space. 

• Fine Motor Skills - The use of our hands and fingers for different tasks e.g., doing up buttons and zips, writing, using cutlery, and tying shoelaces. 
• Gross Motor Skills - Using our entire body to move, involving the large core stabilising muscles of the body to perform everyday functions e.g. running, sitting upright, riding a bike, throwing, catching, and kicking. 
• Sensory Processing - How the brain receives, organises and responds to sensory input e.g. seeking movement, avoiding sounds, sensitivity to the feeling of clothing. 
• Emotional Regulation - Identifying emotions, what causes different emotions and how to respond to emotions in a helpful manner. 
• Cognitive skills - Planning, organising, problem-solving, sequencing tasks, attention, safety awareness etc. 
• Self Care - Morning or evening routines, often looking into sleeping, toileting, showering, dressing/undressing, mealtimes, and grooming. 
• Household and Community Functioning - Anything to do with managing a home and accessing the community. Some examples include cooking, budgeting, shopping, using public transport. 
• Education - We can help with providing information for the individual, their parents, teachers, support staff or other loved ones.

We sure are! 

To be an OT, you need to complete a tertiary qualification (minimum 4 years) and be registered with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) and The Occupational Therapy board of Australia.