Are Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy the Same?

Although both types of therapy help children improve the quality of their lives, there are differences. Physical therapy deals with the issues of pain, strength, joint range of motion, endurance, and gross motor functioning, whereas occupational therapy deals more with fine motor skills, visual-perceptual skills, cognitive skills, and sensory-processing deficits.

Who Are Occupational Therapy Practitioners?

They can be credentialed at either the professional level (occupational therapist) after completion of a 4-year (bachelor's) degree program or at the technical level (occupational therapy assistant) after completion of a 2-year (associate's) degree program. In 2007, however, the American Occupational Therapy Association will require occupational therapists to get a master's degree in the field.

All occupational therapy practitioners must complete supervised fieldwork programs and pass a national certification examination. Most states also require a license to practice and require occupational therapy practitioners to take continuing education classes throughout their careers to maintain that licensure.

Occupational therapists work in a variety of settings, including:

• hospitals
• schools
• rehabilitation centers
• mental health facilities
• private practices
• children's clinics
• homes

How Can I Find Care for My Child?

If you think your child may benefit from occupational therapy, talk to your child's doctor, who can usually refer you to individual specialists who are best suited to your child's condition. Your child's school nurse or guidance counselor may also be able to recommend specialists based on your child's academic or social performance.

You can also consult your local yellow pages or contact a nearby hospital or rehabilitation center for referrals. A list of specialists may also be available through your state's occupational therapy association.

However you find an occupational therapist for your child, make sure that your health insurance company covers the program you select.

Reviewed by: Kimberly S. Pierson
Date reviewed: June 2004