Celebrating Neuroaffirming Professionals: Occupational Therapists

Most people have heard of occupational therapists, or OTs. But unless you’ve worked with one yourself, it’s easy to assume their role is limited to helping children with sensory needs — or assisting with physical rehab after injury. The truth is, occupational therapists work with people across the lifespan, and their skillset is often deeply valuable for neurodivergent clients of all ages.

So… What Is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy is all about supporting people to participate in the daily activities (“occupations”) that matter to them — in a way that feels achievable and sustainable.

For a neurodivergent person, this might include things like:

• Building routines that support executive functioning

• Adjusting the environment to reduce sensory overwhelm

• Navigating transitions, burnout recovery or major role changes (like starting school or becoming a parent)

• Developing strategies to manage energy and task demands

• Modifying learning or work spaces to support focus and accessibility

• Improving engagement in play, leisure or self-care activities

In short, OTs can be the difference between just surviving your day — and shaping a life that actually works for you.

Not Just for Kids. Not Just About Sensory Processing.

Yes, many OTs work with children. And yes, they’re known for helping with sensory regulation. But that’s only a fraction of what they do.

For young neurodivergent clients, an OT might:

• Support school readiness or classroom participation

• Create strategies to reduce sensory distress during transitions

• Help build confidence with fine motor or daily living skills

• Collaborate with families and educators on realistic, respectful supports

For adults, an OT might:

• Assist with meal preparation and fatigue-friendly routines

• Help clarify goals that align with personal values (not just productivity)

• Provide support during major transitions like starting work, parenting, or burnout recovery

• Break down overwhelming tasks into achievable steps

In mental health, OTs often bring a practical lens to therapy — helping translate insight into action. For example, where a psychologist might explore the emotional roots of burnout or avoidance, an OT might help co-create a flexible daily routine that works with, not against, the client’s energy patterns. 

They might physically map out a morning routine, or test different sensory tools in-session to identify what supports focus or calm. This hands-on, action-oriented approach complements psychological therapy by focusing on the doing, not just the understanding.

What Makes an OT Neuroaffirming?

A neuroaffirming OT does not try to make someone appear “less autistic” or “more normal.” They don’t see stimming, fidgeting or communication differences as things to eliminate. Instead, they start with the assumption that neurodivergence is a valid, natural part of human diversity.

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

• Respecting the person’s pace — not pushing for change just for the sake of it

• Collaborative planning — the client sets the agenda, not just the therapist

• Offering supports, not corrections — reframing “deficits” as mismatches between person and environment

• Understanding burnout, shutdown and inertia — and helping to gently navigate through

• Being aware of trauma — including the trauma of being misunderstood or masked for years

• Tailoring strategies — recognising that not everyone benefits from a visual schedule or a sensory diet

Importantly, neuroaffirming OTs don’t pretend to have all the answers. They listen, adapt and prioritise dignity over compliance.

Finding the Right OT

If you’re looking for an OT, consider asking:

• Have they worked with neurodivergent clients across different age groups?

• Do they understand masking, burnout, or executive functioning challenges?

• Are they willing to adapt their approach based on your or your child’s communication style or preferences?

• Do they offer support with things like school adjustments, workplace supports, or building daily routines?

If they’re part of the Neuroaffirming Professionals Alliance Australia (NAPAA), they’ve committed to upholding our values of inclusion, dignity, and practical, individualised support — not one-size-fits-all solutions.

A Big Thank You to Neuroaffirming Occupational Therapists

At NAPAA, we recognise and deeply appreciate the vital role that occupational therapists play in the lives of neurodivergent individuals and their families.

From co-creating accessible morning routines, to supporting energy conservation strategies, to advocating for sensory-friendly environments — your work makes a real difference.

You are not just helping people manage their days. You’re helping shape lives that are more livable, more sustainable, and more true to the individual.

Thank you for being part of this movement toward a world that doesn’t just include neurodivergent people — but actually works for them.

We value and are thankful for the difference you help make in the lives of neurodivergent clients and families. The future is more functional and equitable because of you.

If you’re looking for one, our growing NAPAA Directory is here to help. We’re always on the lookout for more neuroaffirming OTs to join our professional community - if you’re neurodivergent and you know an amazing OT who caters to, and champion your needs, please share NAPAA with them and encourage them to join us!