Occupational Therapy: What It Involves, Getting an Assessment and Checking Registration

Occupational therapy is a practical, problem-solving profession. Rather than treating a condition in isolation, an occupational therapist looks at what you need or want to do each day, what is getting in the way, and how to change the task, the environment or the approach so it becomes possible and safe.

Occupational therapists work in hospitals, community teams, mental health services, councils, schools, workplaces and independent practice.

An assessment often takes place at home, in hospital before discharge, or at a clinic. The therapist asks about your daily routine, your home, your health, and what you find difficult. They may watch you carry out tasks such as standing from a chair, climbing stairs or making a drink.

You should then agree a plan. That might include equipment, changes to the home, new techniques, energy conservation and pacing, exercises, referrals to other services, or advice for a workplace or school.

Occupational therapy is widely recommended in NHS rehabilitation pathways and in national guidance for conditions such as stroke and dementia, particularly for improving independence in daily activities and reducing falls risk at home. The strength of evidence varies by condition, and outcomes depend heavily on whether recommended equipment and changes are actually put in place.

Risks are low. The main issues are practical: equipment that is the wrong size or badly fitted can cause falls, and adaptations installed without assessment may not suit the person’s needs. Do not fit grab rails, bath boards or stair equipment without checking weight limits and suitability, and ask for a demonstration before using new equipment alone.

“Occupational therapist” is a protected title. Only people registered with the HCPC may use it, and the register is free to search. Support workers and technicians may assist under supervision but are not themselves occupational therapists. Independent occupational therapists should also hold indemnity insurance.

There are two main free routes. NHS occupational therapy comes through a hospital team, community rehabilitation, or a GP referral. Council occupational therapy comes through adult social care: you can request a needs assessment yourself, and it is free to ask for. Larger home adaptations may be funded through a Disabled Facilities Grant, which is means-tested for adults in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with separate arrangements in Scotland.

Independent occupational therapists charge for assessments and reports; fees vary and we do not publish a typical figure. Ask for a written quote covering the visit, the report and any follow-up.

For NHS services, use the provider’s complaints process and, if unresolved, the relevant ombudsman. For council social care in England, complain to the council first and then the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman; the other UK nations have their own ombudsman services. Concerns about an individual therapist’s conduct can be reported to the HCPC.