How do you describe to others what you do as an occupational therapist?
Occupational therapists often get confused with physical therapists by the general public. While the two are similar and have similar names (therapists), they are two completely different professions and require unique education and training. The interviewers want to ensure you can explain what you do as an occupational therapist to the community and your patients, carers, friends, and family. As an experienced OT, you understand the differences between the two professions. Physical therapists primarily help patients deal with pain, improve endurance, increase their range of motion, and develop gross motor skills. At the same time, occupational therapists focus more on how patients perform activities associated with activities of daily living (ADL), including assessing and treating physical, behavioural, psychosocial, cognitive, and sensory skills. Occupational therapy aims to enable the patient to restore independence and enhance their quality of life. Tell the interviewers how you explain what your job entails to others.
"As an occupational therapist, I get asked this question quite often. Many people confuse occupational therapy with physical therapy or think occupational therapists only work with people with workplace injuries. I explain that physical therapists work with patients after an injury to increase their range of motion, reduce pain, increase endurance, and help improve gross motor skills. I then explain that occupational therapists work with various patients with cognitive, developmental, or behavioural conditions to empower them to restore or become independent and live a high quality of life. I help patients improve their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, regulate and manage emotions, and learn basic tasks associated with daily living. People generally understand what I do after that explanation, but I am always happy to answer any follow-up questions they may have."
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