Duties and Qualifications An occupational therapist is an allied health professional who uses therapeutic techniques to improve, restore or maintain a person’s ability to engage in day-to-day activities. Their duties include identifying and treating a patient’s physical, developmental, and emotional difficulties that impact their ability to carry out everyday tasks. Duties and Responsibilities • Carrying out in-person assessments of patients’ abilities and challenges • Developing strategies and treatment plans to support patients in overcoming their challenges • Assessing the patient’s environment, such as work or home, to suggest modifications as needed • Teaching patients exercises and strategies to apply in their daily lives • Providing advice on technical equipment that may support the patient • Liaising with other treating professionals to discuss patient progress