In recognition of Occupation Therapy month, I am excited to take advantage of this opportunity to help people better understand the role of an OT. In 10+ years that I have worked as an occupational therapist I often find myself having to explain what exactly I do. Most people seem to be familiar with physical therapy but occupational therapy….. I get a blank stare.
The role of an occupational therapist is to help patients achieve a more fulfilled and satisfied state in life through the recovery of function and performance in activities of daily living. Basically, we work with our patients to help them live their life to the fullest and to do the things they love in life more efficiently.
As a team leader with Therapy Center (we like to use the term Mentor), I have had the pleasure of working with an incredible group of OT’s and COTA’s (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants). Although each of my team members has completely different personalities, they all have one thing in common: their undeniable passion for the work that we do in the field of occupational therapy.
The innovative methods that my amazing team of OT’s and COTA’s use to help our patients are as varied as the therapists themselves, which is what makes them so good at what they do. From self-care activities to providing a shoulder to cry on, and everything in-between, these ladies are always finding new ways to keep therapy sessions interesting, fun and most importantly, challenging. Watching patients progress and improve is what continues to motivate our team and when we see the smile on a patient’s face when they are able to do something that they haven’t been able to do before…that’s priceless!
To my team of OT’s and COTA’s and to all of the incredible OT’s and COTA’s at Therapy Center, Thank you for choosing the field of Occupational Therapy and Happy OT month!
-Lauren McCraine, Mentor and Occupational Therapist
Visit the occupational therapy section of our blog to read more information on the field of OT and the amazing team we have working with us!
