What is Occupational Therapy?
OT is about helping people do the everyday things that matter — at home, at school, at work, and in the community. It's practical, person-centred, and built around your life.
Whole-person approach
OT looks at the person, their environment, and what they want to do — not just a diagnosis.
Real-life settings
Support is provided where it matters — home, school, community, or workplace.
Goal-focused
Every strategy is built around what you or your family actually wants to achieve.
OT helps people participate in the activities that matter most to them
The word "occupation" in occupational therapy refers to the activities that occupy your time and give your life meaning — not just work. This includes everything from getting dressed in the morning to participating in school, managing emotions, or getting out into the community. OT looks at the whole picture: your skills, your environment, your routines, your sensory needs, your support network — and builds strategies that are practical and achievable.
"We don't just treat a diagnosis. We look at who you are, what you want to do, and what's getting in the way."
Self-care & daily routines
Getting dressed, brushing teeth, bathing, mealtimes, and personal hygiene.
School & learning
Classroom participation, handwriting, attention, transitions, and school readiness.
Emotional regulation
Managing big feelings, sensory processing, and coping strategies.
Community access
Getting out and about, social participation, transport, and independence in the community.
Home & safety
Home modifications, equipment, domestic tasks, and safe independent living.
Play & leisure
Engaging in play, hobbies, recreation, and social connection.
What does an OT actually do?
Every OT journey looks a little different, but here's what you can generally expect when working with Montra Therapy.
1
Referral & intake
You reach out or submit a referral. We gather some initial information and get in touch to talk through your goals and needs.
2
Assessment
We meet with you, your family, and your support network to understand your strengths, challenges, routines, and goals.
3
Planning & recommendations
We develop a clear, practical plan with strategies or recommendations tailored to your life — in plain language.
4
Ongoing support
We work with you over time, adjusting strategies as goals are met and new ones emerge — always at your pace.
OT can help with...
- Difficulty with self-care tasks like dressing, bathing, or eating
- Challenges at school — attention, handwriting, or classroom behaviour
- Sensory sensitivities or seeking behaviours
- Difficulty managing emotions or transitions
- Fatigue, pain, or physical limitations affecting daily life
- Home safety concerns or need for equipment
- Wanting more independence in the community
- Preparing for supported living or a change in living situation
Who is OT for?
- Children from infancy through to young adulthood
- Adults with disability, chronic illness, or acquired injury
- People with a diagnosis like autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, or Down syndrome
- People without a diagnosis who are struggling with daily tasks
- NDIS participants across all age groups
- Families and carers who need support navigating daily life
Things people often ask us
Do I need a diagnosis to access OT?
No. OT is available to anyone who is experiencing difficulties with everyday activities, regardless of whether they have a formal diagnosis.
How is OT different from physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy focuses primarily on movement and physical rehabilitation. OT focuses on participation in daily activities and what helps or hinders a person from doing what they need or want to do.
How long does OT support go for?
It varies. Some people need a one-off assessment, others benefit from regular sessions over months or years. We work to your goals and review progress along the way.
Can OT be funded through the NDIS?
Yes. OT services and assessments are commonly funded through NDIS plans under Capacity Building and Support Coordination budgets.
Where do sessions take place?
We provide support wherever it makes sense — at home, at school, in the community, or via telehealth, depending on the person's needs and goals.
Can families be involved in sessions?
Absolutely — we encourage it. Families and carers play an important role and are welcome to be involved as much as they would like.
Ready to find out if OT is right for you?
Whether you're just exploring or ready to get started, we're happy to have a conversation.