Where do occupational therapists work and how do I get one?

Information about the areas where occupational therapists (also known as OTs) are employed, plus information on how to get an occupational therapist.

Where do occupational therapists work?

Occupational therapists work in a variety of settings; those likely to be most relevant to people with a muscular dystrophy are:

• Health Services -  hospitals, rehabilitation services, child development centres, wheelchair services
• Working in the community – occupational therapists may visit you at home, if you are having difficulty managing tasks. They can consider equipment and adaptations to your home. Employed by the local council, working in the Social Services department (Social Work department in Scotland), and sometimes in the Housing Department. In some parts of the UK, therapists work across both health and social services.
• Education - especially special schools 
  

How can you get an occupational therapist?

You may find that you have been already been referred to an occupational therapist by someone else, for example a doctor or a physiotherapist. This is more likely to be the case in health services and in education

Some therapists working in health or education operate a “blanket” referral system; this means that they see all patients on a ward, or all the students at a special school.

If someone refers you to an occupational therapist in another area (eg outside the health setting), for example an MDC Care Advisor makes a referral to a community based occupational therapist, then this should always be with your consent.

Alternatively you, or someone acting on your behalf, may need to make the referral directly. If you are wanting assistance and advice concerning how you are managing at home, and to get your home adapted, then you need to refer yourself to your local authority Occupational Therapy Department. Look in the phone book for contact details - for the Social Services (or in Scotland, Social Work) department of your local council. You can make a referral by phone, in writing, by visiting in person or possibly even by email/via your local council’s website.
There is often a waiting list to be seen, so it is important to request a referral sooner rather than later, if you are experiencing difficulties, particularly when you have a progressive condition. Departments operate a priority system, so that people with more urgent needs are seen first.

If you do not wish to wait, you may choose to be seen privately. The College of Occupational Therapists holds a list of therapists who work in private practise, or follow the link below. Please note that the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign cannot recommend anyone in particular, nor can we comment on their awareness of muscle disorders, and the implications for equipment or adaptations.

For a list of private practise therapists, visit this website: www.otip.co.uk

Return to the What is occupational therapy? page.