Working Well

Occupational Therapy is a profession concerned with promoting health and wellbeing through occupation, with the main goal being to enable people to participate in everyday activities.  Occupational Therapists are trained health professionals who assist people in overcoming limitations caused by various factors, such as psychological difficulties.  Their goal is to provide individuals with assistance to move from dependence to independence, to maximise personal productivity, wellbeing and quality of life.

Occupational Therapists, in relation to depression, work with people afflicted with such mental illnesses and also work with other health professionals, carers, family and friends.  They can assist people suffering from depression in enhancing budgeting, social, interpersonal, time management and stress management skills.  Through comprehensive assessment, Occupational Therapists can identify one’s abilities and limitations, thus ensuring that the help they receive is individualised. 

Before becoming an Occupational Therapist, a candidate must complete a university degree with studies in the following:

- Human Biology
- Social and Behavioural Science
- Occupational Science
- Occupational Therapy, Theory and Practice
- Communication and Management
- Research

Courses also include formal study and field work with clients.  Furthermore, to ensure that people requiring assistance receive the best Occupational Therapy, OT Australia has developed the Accredited Occupational Therapist Program (AccOT).  This program recognises Occupational Therapists who maintain the currency of their knowledge and skills through continuous professional education and development and who agree to operate by high ethical standards outlined in the OT Australia Code of Ethics and Entry-level competencies booklet published by the National association.

People who require Occupational Therapists may be referred by a doctor or specialist, or other health professional, friend or relative.  Moreover, the person themselves may contact an Occupational Therapist directly.  Patients who have chronic and complex health needs may be eligible for a Medicare rebate for Occupational Therapy services.

This information was taken from OT Australia and from the World Federation of Occupational Therapists website.

To locate an Occupational Therapist in your area, click here