How does the occupational therapist work with the client?

Depending on individual needs and wants, an occupational therapist will work with the client to:

1. Learn new strategies (ways) of doing things including;   

• Prepare schedules to plan and pace each day
• Learn strategies to help remember information, such as keeping an agenda book or using an organizer
• Get around the community using a wheelchair
• Learn conflict resolution management techniques to work out disagreements with a friend or co-worker
• Dress, cook or bathe safely in the case of decreased sensation, muscle weakness or movements that are difficult to control
  
• Use a script to learn the steps to complete an activity correctly.

2. Adapt the materials and equipment used including;

• Daily planners and/or electronic organizers
• Timers and alarms to remember and cue yourself
• Computer software to organize or simplify tasks
• Changes to the environment to reduce distractions, interruptions or improve ergonomic setup
• Negotiate with employers for flexible work hours
• Organize work spaces
• Help educate teachers and peers about abilities versus disabilities

3. Regain competence in familiar tasks by;

• Retraining method using errorless learning and appropriate teaching techniques (eg: chaining)
• Making recommendations regarding timing of activity resumption
• Providing appropriate direction and guidance to complete tasks with feedback to promote learning