Occupational therapy is a health profession providing practical support to empower people to recover from an illness or disability. This is done by overcoming the barriers preventing individuals from doing the activities (or occupations) that matter to them (RCOT 2018). This support has been found to increase people's independence and satisfaction in various aspects of life. Occupational therapists take a person-centred approach to their therapy by getting to know the person and their needs, abilities and preferences.

While most people may view the term "Occupation" in terms of work, in occupational therapy it refers to practical, meaningful and purposeful activities that allow people to live independently and have a sense of identity. This often includes essential day-to-day tasks such as personal self-care, work/education or leisure activities (RCOT 2018). 

When people experience problems with their emotional health and wellbeing, they often find that the activities they have always done or need/want to do become more difficult. This can be due to things like changes in motivation levels, confidence in their own abilities or being unable focus. Occupational therapy enables people to regain their sense of identity, find solutions to manage their difficulties and, ultimately, experience better mental and emotional health.

Occupational therapists are skilled in supporting people to identify realistic, achievable and meaningful goals in a supportive, focused and compassionate way.