Occupational therapists consult with children and adults who have trouble managing daily tasks, or are at risk of getting them. Occupational therapists serve as essential representatives of an intervention team, working with clients, families, doctors, physical and speech therapists, nurses, social workers, psychologists, occupational counselors, teachers and other professionals, to discuss the constructive involvement of people, groups and societies in their daily lives. Occupational therapists integrate medical knowledge of the human body with understanding the complexities of illness, environment, and community.

The process of occupational therapy includes assessment of individual factors such as physical ability, cognitive abilities, emotional reactions, and social adjustment; environmental factors such as physical, social, and virtual environments, and performance factors such as explanations of activities that fill a person’s day or how communities help disabled people. Occupational therapists then incorporate therapy using a mix of behavioral exercises, functional equipment and advanced practice instruction to improve or assist individuals in achieving the greatest possible role and participation in their society. Occupational therapists also act as supervisors, recovery team members and researchers who are researching the efficacy of clinical treatments.