What is occupational therapy?

Occupations are the activities and tasks of everyday life. These include things people do to look after themselves, to enjoy themselves, and to contribute to the social and economic fabric of their communities. Occupational therapy is the art and science of helping people take part in everyday living through their occupations. 

It is also about fostering health and wellbeing, and about creating a just and inclusive society so that everyone can participate to their fullest potential. The things that occupational therapists do to help people take part in everyday living are sometimes referred to as ‘enabling occupation’.

How you can be sure your occupational therapist is fit to practice

Our role is to make sure you receive care from occupational therapists who are competent and fit to practice. All occupational therapists practising in Aotearoa must be registered and hold a current practising certificate.

We assess each applicant for registration to ensure they’re competent in five key areas. Each year they apply for a practising certificate and provide us with information on how they have maintained their competency.

Our register lists all currently registered occupational therapists. You can search it to make sure your occupational therapist is registered.

You should have confidence in your occupational therapist (PDF)

If you’re concerned about the care you’re receiving

If you’re concerned about the care an occupational therapist is providing, you should discuss it with them. If you’re not comfortable doing this on your own, you can use a support person or health advocate. Further information about the options available to you can be found in the complaints and feedback section.