The Role of Psychology in Occupational Therapy

When it comes to the use of psychology in occupational therapy, it’s essential to note that both are “human” services.

Of course, there are requirements and licensing regulations, theoretical approaches, and treatments that are specific to each discipline. However, in this article, we’ll be exploring how occupational therapy and psychology can complement and facilitate the treatment objectives of the other.   

Since the primary goal of an occupational therapist is enabling people to participate in their regular everyday activities, including work and recreation, it’s in the best interest of clinicians and clients to acknowledge and embrace the natural role of psychology in occupational therapy treatment.

Coursework in Psychology and Occupational Therapy Graduate Programs

Most occupational therapy graduate programs don’t require that applicants have earned their undergraduate degrees in any specific major or discipline. 

That said, according to The Regis College Department of Occupational Therapy, coursework in biology and psychology can be helpful. 

As The Ohio State University School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences points out, students admitted to its Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD) graduate program have often completed background coursework in psychology, biology, exercise science, and more.

Many of the classes required to obtain a degree in psychology and occupational therapy are comparable. Both degrees require classes in statistics, psychology, medical terminology, and patient care, to name a few. 

There are graduate psychology programs you can enroll in if you have a bachelor’s degree in another field, such as occupational therapy. Since there is psychology in occupational therapy coursework, you may be a step ahead of the average psychology graduate student—becoming an occupational therapist psychologist in the process. The same goes for undergraduate students in psychology, applying to graduate programs in occupational therapy.

A psychology degree can help with occupational therapy work by providing you with a wider scope of knowledge, which will ultimately help in the comprehensive health care of patients. Conversely, a background in occupational therapy can give you a different perspective in approaching a client’s psychology treatment plan to address goals and outcomes.

What’s the Difference Between Occupational Therapy and Psychology?

You may be asking yourself, “If psychology and occupational therapy have so much in common, then what are the differences between the two?”

A lot of it has to do with the lens each profession looks through to help people. While psychology focuses on how feelings and emotions relate to everyday function, occupational therapy looks at how occupational-based performance and self-regulation relate to daily function.

Both professions relate to human functioning, but focus on different contributing factors. Psychology is viewed as the form of health care that primarily supports mental health.

Although there is psychology in occupational therapy, occupational therapy’s primary goal is to help a client participate in everyday activities.

Even though there are differences, it’s important that occupational therapy gets the recognition it deserves in the mental health field and psychology gets the recognition it deserves in the field of occupational therapy.

There are occupational therapists working alongside other mental health professionals to help clients make progress and achieve their goals. Psychologists also work collaboratively with occupational therapists to help improve function and address self-regulation. 

Exploring the Relationship

Studying a related field can always be helpful in understanding your clients better. It can give you a better understanding of human behavior and function. This is particularly evident in the interdisciplinary applications of psychology in occupational therapy. 

The rise in mental health awareness has highlighted the relationship between psychology and occupational therapy. More than ever, clients are discovering the connection between their mental health and physical maladies, seeking out services that use both modalities.

Psychologists have the skills needed to dive into occupational therapy. They’re already familiar with the medical terminology and theoretical knowledge to approach emotional regulation, motivation, and daily functioning in their clients. They also have clinical and educational backgrounds in treating patients with maladaptive behaviors.

Occupational therapists who have knowledge of psychology are more critical than ever. According to The American Occupational Therapy Association, meaningful occupations can help with mental and physical well-being.

When helping a patient restore their physical functionality, an occupational therapist must also consider the inextricable link between the patient’s physical and mental health. 

Occupational therapists are trained in observation of physical presentation and the assessment  of daily activities, making them the perfect partners for behavioral health professionals. Occupational therapists help restore function, which directly affects positive mental health.

Additionally, occupational therapists can identify when a patient may have greater behavioral health needs. Occupational therapists also work with a client’s self-regulation, especially in pediatrics, and we know that self-regulation and emotional regulation are connected. 

Psychology in Occupational Therapy

Because occupational therapy and psychology complement each other, it can be easy for a psychologist to transition into an occupational therapy role.

Psychologists already have the foundational tools needed, including a holistic client-centered approach. Many also have a background in evidence-based practice, which is critical in both professions. Psychologists also understand how to treat individuals, groups, and entire communities, and work with both pediatric and adult populations. 

Occupational Therapy in Psychology

Occupational therapists in mental health use a holistic approach, honing in on the client’s physical and mental health at the same time. Just like in other settings, occupational therapists use their skills in assessment, environmental modification, goal setting, and collaboration to help clients participate in activities of daily living. 

Treatment by an occupational therapist ranges from helping young students engage in their school and community, to helping adults with home management, leisurely activities, and social connections. 

Sensory integration also plays a role in mental health. Occupational therapists can address how to help someone regulate their level of arousal, reduce depression or anxiety, improve cognitive abilities, or improve social skills. 

Skills That Are Intertwined

There are many links between psychology and occupational therapy. Whether you’re a private practice psychologist or an occupational therapist in a hospital, having a degree or additional training in either field while practicing in the other can give you the tools you need to provide more comprehensive care to your patients. 

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