Occupational therapists (OTs) help individuals of all ages participate more fully in the activities that matter most to them, whether that’s getting dressed in the morning, returning to work, or navigating the school day. These daily tasks, or “occupations,” are essential to independence, health, and overall well-being.

So, what does an occupational therapist do on a day-to-day basis? OTs assess how someone functions in their environment, identify barriers that may be limiting progress, and provide personalized, evidence-based strategies to build skills and promote greater independence. Their work is highly individualized and rooted in helping each person reach their goals, whether that’s holding a pencil, recovering from a stroke, or safely aging in place.

Occupational therapy is holistic in nature. Rather than focusing solely on a diagnosis, OTs consider the whole person: their routines, environment, and personal priorities. By tailoring support to each unique situation, occupational therapists empower individuals to participate more confidently in their daily lives and routines.

 

Core Responsibilities of an Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapist responsibilities vary based on the setting and population they serve, but their core role remains consistent: helping people live fuller, more independent lives.

Assessing Client Needs and Abilities

The first step in occupational therapy is evaluation. An OT observes how a person moves, interacts, completes tasks, and manages daily routines. This may include interviews, functional assessments, or standardized tools. The goal is to identify both strengths and challenges, whether those challenges are physical, cognitive, sensory, or emotional.

Developing Individualized Treatment Plans

Once needs are identified, occupational therapists develop a custom treatment plan. This plan outlines specific goals and the therapeutic activities used to achieve them. These plans are often aligned with medical goals or, in school settings, IEP goals. The focus may be on improving fine motor coordination, sensory regulation, or task sequencing—whatever best supports the individual’s daily life.

Supporting Daily Life Skills

A central part of what an occupational therapist does is teaching or re-teaching everyday skills. This may include:

• Dressing and grooming

• Using utensils or writing tools

• Organizing schoolwork or home routines

• Learning workplace adaptations

• Managing sensory needs in public spaces

By targeting these life skills, occupational therapists help people grow more confident and independent in their environments.

 

Where Do Occupational Therapists Work?

Occupational therapists work in a wide variety of settings, each one offering different types of occupational therapy based on client needs.

• Hospitals and Rehab Centers: Focus on recovery from injury, surgery, or illness.

• Schools: Help students meet educational goals and access learning.

• Outpatient Clinics: Serve children and adults with developmental delays, injuries, or disabilities.

• Home Health Services: Assist individuals in adapting their living space and routines.

• Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living: Help seniors maintain function and reduce fall risk.

• Teletherapy and Virtual OT: Provide remote access to therapy, especially in rural or underserved areas.

Wherever they work, OTs are experts at modifying environments and activities to match each client’s needs.

 

Occupational Therapy in Schools

One of the most visible roles for OTs is in school settings. Pediatric occupational therapy plays a major role in helping children succeed both academically and socially.

Helping Students Succeed in the Classroom

In schools, OTs support fine motor skills, sensory regulation, attention, and independence. Common school-based occupational therapy goals include:

• Improving handwriting and pencil grip

• Teaching keyboarding or assistive tech tools

• Supporting focus and participation during group work

• Helping with transitions, routines, or self-regulation

• Addressing challenges with visual-motor integration

They often use tools like visual schedules, therapy putty, adaptive scissors, or sensory seating to support students’ access to learning.

Collaborating on IEPs and School Teams

Another key part of what an occupational therapist does in schools is participating in special education planning. They may:

• Conduct evaluations to determine eligibility for services

• Write and track measurable IEP goals

• Provide direct and consultative services

• Train teachers and families on helpful strategies

• Attend team meetings and progress reviews

Supporting IEP goals ensures that occupational therapy services align with a student’s unique learning needs and help them access the general curriculum.

 

How Is Occupational Therapy Different from Physical Therapy?

It’s common to confuse occupational therapy with physical therapy, but their focus areas are distinct.

 

Occupational Therapy (OT)	Physical Therapy (PT)
Focuses on function and daily tasks	Focuses on movement and physical strength
Helps people with dressing, eating, schoolwork	Helps with walking, posture, and mobility
Often used for sensory, cognitive, or fine motor support	Often used after injury or surgery
Common in school and home settings	Common in hospitals and sports rehab

 

While both are critical, occupational therapists zero in on the “what” and “how” of meaningful daily life activities.

 

Common Occupational Therapy Techniques and Tools

Occupational therapy is known for being both practical and creative. No two sessions look exactly alike, because no two clients are exactly the same. OTs draw from a wide range of tools and techniques to meet each individual’s needs in meaningful, functional ways. Their approach is hands-on, engaging, and always goal-oriented.

Depending on the setting and goals, an occupational therapist might incorporate:

• Sensory integration techniques: These include swings, textured materials, weighted vests or blankets, and calming tools that help clients regulate their sensory input. Sensory-based strategies are especially common in pediatric therapy to improve attention, behavior, and emotional regulation.

• Fine motor tools: Activities like using tweezers, threading lacing cards, or pinching clothespins help strengthen the small muscles in the hands and fingers. These skills are essential for tasks such as writing, buttoning clothes, or using utensils.

• Visual schedules and checklists: For clients who thrive on structure and predictability, visual supports can reinforce routines, reduce anxiety, and promote independence. These tools are often used in schools or home settings to support transitions and task completion.

• Assistive technology: From adapted keyboards and switches to communication boards and apps, OTs leverage technology to make tasks more accessible. These tools can be game-changers for clients with physical, cognitive, or communication challenges.

• Self-care training tools: OTs help clients practice everyday activities like brushing teeth, getting dressed, or preparing meals using modified utensils, button hooks, sock aids, and other adaptive equipment. Therapy sessions may simulate real-life environments to provide hands-on learning in a safe, supportive space.

Each of these tools serves a larger purpose: to help clients gain confidence, build practical skills, and engage more fully in their daily lives. By meeting people where they are and using creative strategies, occupational therapists turn everyday challenges into opportunities for growth.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About OT

Q: What happens during an OT session?
A: An OT session typically includes a warm-up, targeted activities based on the client’s goals, and time to reflect or practice skills in real-world scenarios.

Q: Is occupational therapy only for kids?
A: No. OTs work with all age groups, from premature babies in the NICU to seniors recovering from a fall.

Q: Do you need a diagnosis to receive OT?
A: Not always. While many clients do have diagnoses like autism, ADHD, or stroke, anyone struggling with daily tasks may benefit from an OT evaluation.

Q: Can OT help with mental health or emotional regulation?
A: Yes. Occupational therapy addresses routines, coping strategies, and sensory supports that can help manage anxiety, attention, or emotional regulation.

Q: Do OTs write IEP goals?
A: Yes, in school settings, occupational therapists are key members of the IEP team and often write or support goals related to fine motor skills, self-help, and sensory access.

 

Final Thoughts: Why Occupational Therapy Matters

Now that you know what occupational therapists do, it’s clear they play an essential role in helping people live with purpose and independence. From guiding children through sensory challenges to helping adults regain function after an injury, OTs improve quality of life in practical, lasting ways.

If you or someone you know is struggling with everyday tasks, it may be time to explore occupational therapy. It could make all the difference in living life to the fullest.