Occupational therapists help individuals with mentally, physically, developmentally, or emotionally disabling conditions to develop, recover and maintain daily living and work skills. Occupational therapists help improve basic motor functions and compensate for permanent loss of function.
Therapists also use activities to increase the patient's strength and dexterity.
If a patient has a permanent functional disability, the therapist provides adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs, splints and aids for eating and dressing. Some occupational therapists work in mental health centers with people who are retarded, emotionally disturbed, or suffering from depression. They offer treatment activities to individuals and to groups to help them learn to cope with the pressure of life. The minimum requirement for entry into this field is a bachelor's degree in occupational therapy. Some states require a license to practice occupational therapy.