occupational therapy

American  

noun

1. a form of therapy in which patients are encouraged to engage in vocational tasks or expressive activities, as art or dance, usually in a social setting.

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occupational therapy British  

noun

1. med treatment of people with physical, emotional, or social problems, using purposeful activity to help them overcome or learn to deal with their problems

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Other Word Forms

• occupational therapist
  noun

Etymology

Origin of occupational therapy

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

As he fell behind in first grade, his doctor referred him to occupational therapy and a psychologist.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 20, 2025

"My struggle goes beyond what you see on camera or how I present myself," he said, pointing to years of speech and occupational therapy as well as socialization training.

From Barron's • Oct. 24, 2025

"As an educator, Jutta nurtured many students, preceptors and clinicians to flourish and grow. That her work continues to enrich the tapestry of occupational therapy in Alberta is her legacy," the statement continued.

From BBC • Jun. 20, 2025

Specialized occupational therapy tools at the clinic were replaced by scavenged substitutes: buttons, small glasses, pieces of wood or pipe now help patients relearn activities of daily living.

From Salon • Mar. 29, 2025

When David was three and started coming to the clinic for occupational therapy, I tagged along because I was too little to stay home alone.

From "Rules" by Cynthia Lord