What is Occupational Therapy? 
 
At the core of occupational therapy is meaningful activity.  Occupational therapists use skills and knowledge when finding solutions to help people address barriers they face.  These barriers may be due to physical, cognitive, social, and mental health issues.   Information gained through functional and standardized assessments is used to guide evidence based treatment plans in collaboration with you and your priorities.  

Occupational therapists help people:
-  Develop new skills and strategies to complete their daily activities and responsibilities  
-  Adapt the environment to improve accessibility 
- Learn new ways of doing activities
- Obtain aids or specialized equipment to allow participation in daily activities
 Occupational therapists also liaise with other health professionals, community agencies, family members, and caregivers.


Resources:

• ​What is occupational therapy
• Occupational Therapy Stories and Facts

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Education and Regulation
BSc or MSc 

Occupational therapy is a university science program.  In order to practice independently occupational therapists must pass a national certification exam.  Ongoing education and collaboration with colleagues is a critical part of practice. 
Canadian Occupational Therapy Programs

Occupational therapy is a regulated health profession.   OTs must be registered with their provincial regulator.  In Nova Scotia this is COTNS.
 
The core values of respect and trust are part of occupational therapy practice.  Occupational therapists follow a code of ethics and work within their scope of practice.