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An occupational therapist works with people who may be recovering from illness or injury, with the main purpose of enabling them to be able to return to the activities of their daily lives. For occupational therapists, the idea of an occupation signifies any activity that "occupies" our lives and our time.
Occupational therapy practitioners receive extensive education and training in the study of human growth and development. Within this area of study, additional emphasis is focused on the manner in which an injury or illness can have an impact on people's emotional, social, and physiological functioning.
In addition to their academic work, individuals who are studying to become occupational therapists must complete a supervised internship at one of many different types of healthcare settings. Upon completion of the internship, they must also pass a national examination. Many states oversee and regulate the practice of occupational therapy.
Occupational therapists can face significant challenges when dealing with patients who have difficult medical problems such as injuries to the spinal cord, traumatic brain injuries, stroke, and muscular dystrophy that may render them physically, developmentally, emotionally, and mentally disabled. For those who may not be able to return to full functionality, the occupational therapist teaches them how to adapt to a permanent loss of function.
Occupational therapists to work in many different types of facilities, and their patients come from every age group. The services of an occupational therapist are often billed under the facility's program and are generally covered under many health insurance plans.
For more information, visit the website of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. at www.aota.org.
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