Occupational therapy (OT) is a branch of health care that helps people of all ages who have physical, sensory, or cognitive problems. OT can help them regain independence in all areas of their lives. Occupational therapists help with barriers that affect a person's emotional, social, and physical needs. In Singapore, there are several options available for people looking for occupational therapy services, and one such option is Total Communication.
OT focuses on facilitating the development and improvement of the following areas:
Motor skills: Fine and gross motor (movement) skills such as posture, gait, balance, coordination, and body schema
Visual perception and spatial orientation
Dyspraxia and motor planning abilities
Activities of daily living like toileting and feeding.
Handwriting and pre-writing skills
Sensory and emotional regulation
Behavior issues (often tied to difficulties with sensory or emotional regulation in general). OTs work closely with speech and language therapists who deal with the communication aspect of behavioral challenges.
Cognition (attention, executive functions)
Occupational therapy is beneficial for people who face challenges in the above areas due to various medical or developmental reasons. By improving these areas, occupational therapy helps individuals live more independent and fulfilling life.
Why Choose Occupational Therapy?
People choose occupational therapy for various reasons.
For some, it is a way to recover after an injury or surgery.
Others may need help to develop life skills or to cope with a disability.
Benefit children who have developmental delays or learning difficulties.
Help children to develop age-appropriate skills, such as fine and gross motor skills, and also provides support in areas like social skills, attention, and behavior.
When is Occupational Therapy Needed?
Occupational therapy is recommended when a person is facing challenges in performing daily activities due to physical, sensory, or cognitive difficulties. It can be recommended by a doctor, psychologist, or other healthcare professional.
Here are other challenges that may require the intervention of Occupational Therapy:
When a person has difficulty with fine and gross motor skills, such as posture, gait, balance, coordination, and body schema.
When a person has trouble with visual perception and spatial orientation.
When a person experiences dyspraxia and motor planning abilities.
When a person has challenges with activities of daily living like toileting and feeding.
When a person needs help with handwriting and pre-writing skills.
When a person has difficulty with sensory and emotional regulation.
When a person exhibits behavior issues, which are often tied to difficulties with sensory or emotional regulation in general.
When a person has cognitive challenges, including attention and executive functioning.
In some cases, occupational therapy may be part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program aimed at helping a person regain independence in all areas of their life.
Where can Occupational Therapy be Done?
Total Communication is a Singapore-based Therapy center that offers Speech-language therapy, Educational therapy, and Occupational therapy services. They have a team of experienced occupational therapists who work with individuals of all ages to help them achieve their goals. The therapists at Total Communication use a client-tailored evidence-based approach, which means that they work closely with the individual to understand their needs and goals and develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve those goals.
How is Occupational Therapy Done?
It starts with a preliminary assessment to determine strengths, weaknesses and goals.
Based on the assessment, the therapist creates an individually tailored therapy plan.
The treatment plan may include activities to improve motor skills, cognitive skills, and emotional regulation.
Occupational therapy is typically done in a one-on-one setting.
Therapy length varies based on individual needs and goals.
Connect with Total Communication
Total Communication has been providing occupational therapy services in Singapore for 18 years. Their team of experienced occupational therapists specializes in working with preschools and international schools, providing screening, assessment, and therapy services. They also offer shadow support for integration and foster strong collaboration with the educational team. With a commitment to cutting-edge professional development, Total Communication provides an unparalleled level of service and care for their clients. Contact Total Communication to learn more about their services and schedule an appointment.