Occupational therapy (OT) is one of the most creative and impactful careers in health care. Yet many people misunderstand what occupational therapists actually do.
There are many myths about occupational therapy, from people thinking it's about finding jobs to assuming it's the same as physical therapy. These occupational therapy myths create confusion about a profession that is both creative and life-changing.
If you're considering a career in OT, understanding and debunking these myths is the first step toward seeing the full scope and potential of the profession.
Myth 1: Occupational Therapy Is Only About Jobs
Because "occupation" often means "job," many people assume that's the focus of OT. But in occupational therapy, occupation refers to any meaningful daily activity, from cooking and dressing to caregiving and play.
"Occupation in layman's terms is your job," said Kirstin Borge, OTD. "But how we define occupation is anything and everything that you need or want to do throughout the day."
That could mean helping someone perform tasks for their job, but it could also mean teaching an older adult how to dress independently, guiding a patient through recovery after shoulder surgery or supporting a parent in lifting and playing with their child again.
For occupational therapists, occupation is about function and participation. It's about helping people do the activities that give their lives meaning, whatever those activities may be.
Myth 2: Occupational Therapy Is the Same as Physical Therapy
It's common for occupational therapists to be mistaken for physical therapists.
"I get called the PT at least twice a day," said Gabby Brant, OTD, OTR/L. "We're not PT. I mean, it's in the name, right?"
While OT and physical therapy (PT) often work closely together, they have distinct roles. PT focuses on restoring movement, strength and range of motion. OT builds on those gains by helping patients apply them in real-world contexts.
For example, after shoulder surgery, PT might focus on increasing mobility and strength. OT takes it a step further by helping the patient safely reach overhead cabinets, lift groceries or carry a child. It's this emphasis on functional outcomes that makes occupational therapy unique.
Myth 3: Occupational Therapy Is Only for Injury Recovery
Another occupational therapy myth is that OTs only work with patients after surgery or injury. In reality, OTs support people of all ages, from children with developmental delays to older adults maintaining independence at home.
"An 80-year-old grandma's occupation isn't her job," Borge said. "It's getting herself dressed. It's being able to get on and off the toilet."
OTs work with children who have developmental delays, help adults manage chronic conditions and support older adults who want to stay independent at home. The common thread is function: empowering people to participate fully in their daily lives.
Why Debunking Occupational Therapy Myths Matters for Your Career
Occupational therapy is often called the "science of doing," and that's exactly what makes it such a meaningful career. It blends science and creativity, problem-solving and empathy. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a direct difference in someone's quality of life.
For those considering the field, understanding what OT really is, and isn't, can help you envision the many paths your career might take. Whether you're drawn to pediatrics, mental health, rehabilitation or hand therapy, occupational therapy offers a unique chance to help people live fuller, more independent lives.
FAQs About Occupational Therapy
Why is it called "occupational" therapy if it's not about jobs?
In occupational therapy, occupation refers to any meaningful daily activity, not just employment. That can mean helping someone relearn how to dress, drive, cook or care for their family after an illness or injury. It's all about enabling participation in the things that make life meaningful.
Do occupational therapists only work with people recovering from injuries?
No. While rehabilitation is a big part of OT, therapists also work with children who have developmental delays, adults with chronic conditions and older adults who want to maintain independence. The goal is always the same: helping people do what matters most to them.
What types of goals do occupational therapists help people achieve?
Goals vary widely depending on the person. An OT might help someone return to work after surgery, teach a child how to write and use school tools, or help an older adult stay safe at home. Every plan is individualized and focused on meaningful outcomes.
What kind of people thrive in an occupational therapy career?
OT is ideal for those who are creative problem-solvers, empathetic listeners and strong communicators. Because no two patients are alike, therapists need to adapt and design solutions that fit each individual's unique goals and lifestyle.
Where do occupational therapists work?
OTs work in a wide range of settings, including hospitals, schools, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, home health and community programs. This flexibility allows therapists to pursue specialty areas, from pediatrics and mental health to hand therapy, geriatrics and more.
