Occupational Therapist
Helping you get back to the things that matter most in daily life
The basics
What is an occupational therapist?
An occupational therapist (OT) helps you do the things that make life worth living. That might be dressing yourself, cooking a meal, working, playing with your kids, gardening, or painting - whatever "occupation" or activity matters to you. Their job is to help you get back to those things, or find new ways to do them, after neurological injury or illness.
This is completely different from a general OT. Neurological OTs understand how brain injuries, stroke, MS, and Parkinson's affect not just movement, but also coordination, thinking, mood, and energy levels. They don't just look at what you can't do - they focus on what you want to do, and then problem-solve the barriers.
Occupational therapists often visit you at home to understand your actual environment, recommend practical adaptations like grab rails or kitchen reorganisation, source specialist equipment, and help manage fatigue and pacing. They're trained to support the whole person, not just the injury.
Who benefits
Who might benefit from seeing an occupational therapist?
If getting through your day feels harder than it used to - whether that's washing, dressing, cooking, or getting to work - an OT can help. You don't need a medical diagnosis; sometimes people just notice they're struggling with tasks they used to do easily. An OT will work with you to understand what's changed and what you want to get back to. Occupational therapists also support people living with dementia and children with neurological conditions.
What to expect
What happens in a session?
Listening to Your Story
Your OT will ask about what matters to you - your roles (as a parent, worker, partner), your hobbies, your daily routine. They want to understand not just the injury, but the life you're trying to live.
Functional Assessment
They may observe you doing everyday tasks, ask about your energy levels, balance, and coordination. Many OTs will do a home visit to see your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and understand the real barriers you're facing.
Problem-Solving & Strategies
Together you'll develop practical solutions. This might be: adapting your home (grab rails, raised toilet seat), learning new techniques, pacing strategies to manage fatigue, or sourcing specialist equipment like adapted cutlery or a reacher.
Ongoing Support & Adjustment
Your OT will regularly review how things are working, adjust strategies, and celebrate the wins. As you progress, they'll help you build confidence to try new things and expand what you're doing.
Finding support
How do I find an occupational therapist?
You can access occupational therapy through the NHS, often via your GP or by asking your neurologist or stroke team for a referral. Waiting lists can sometimes be long, so many people also access private OTs who can often see you more quickly and offer more flexible appointment times.
The My Rehab Journey directory lists occupational therapists across the UK. When you're looking, check whether they have experience with your specific condition and whether they can offer home visits if that matters to you. Many OTs will offer an initial chat to see if you're a good fit.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral to see an OT?
Through the NHS, you'll typically need a GP or neurologist referral. For private OTs, you can self-refer. Waiting lists on the NHS can be long, so many people access private OTs for faster support.
Will an OT do home visits?
Many do. Home visits are valuable because your OT sees your actual environment and can recommend practical adaptations. Ask when you first contact them whether they offer this.
How much does private occupational therapy cost?
Private OT sessions typically cost £50-£150 per hour in the UK, depending on location and experience. Home visits may cost more. Initial assessments are sometimes longer and more expensive.
How long is a typical OT intervention?
This varies widely. Some people need a few sessions for specific advice; others need ongoing support over months. Your OT will discuss realistic timescales based on your goals.
What qualifications should an OT have?
Look for HCPC registration (Health and Care Professions Council). Many also have additional qualifications in neurological rehabilitation or specialist areas. Don't hesitate to ask about their experience with your condition.
Ready to find an occupational therapist near you?
Browse verified occupational therapists across the UK - filter by location, delivery method, and specialist experience.
Explore More
Related resources
Related practitioners
Neuro Physiotherapist · Speech & Language Therapist · Case Manager · Rehabilitation Assistant
Conditions we work with
Stroke · Brain Injury · Multiple Sclerosis · Dementia · Children's Neurological
Find local support
Helpful guides