What to expect from OT

[Twigglett1]

Hi all

I'm still on a waitlist for NHS OT (8 months and counting) so thinking of exploring private.

Can you share what makes a good OT please and what support we should be looking for then to give.

Thank you!

What support they give surely depends on DC’s needs. As does what makes a good OT. For example, if you need sensory OT you want an advanced practitioner i.e. someone with training and experience to at least level 4 or equivalent of the Sensory Integration Network Postgraduate Modules. But if you need ‘normal’ OT they wouldn’t be the best person to approach.

If DC have an EHCP or there is the possibility of you applying for an EHCNA they need to be able to write Tribunal standard reports and have SENDIST experience.

Would you expect an OT to offer therapy with your child? The OT I can find in my area only offer reports and not any additional sessions.

Some OTs undertake ongoing direct OT work, others don’t, so it’s not really a question of what you expect them to offer. It’s not a measure of how good the OT is, it’s just different work.

Whether DC need ongoing direct OT provision is a separate matter.