"Occupational therapy is about finding what is meaningful to a person and putting that at the centre of your practice."
Read about Rachel’s studies in occupational therapy to find out what her course is really like.

What made you decide to become an occupational therapist?
All of the jobs I’ve previously had involved caring for others so I knew that I wanted a career that gave me the opportunity to engage with people in my community and beyond.
I started out as a dog handler and assessor for the RSPCA, working with animals and their owners in rescue centres. I often met people who had a range of conditions, which meant that they couldn’t care for their pets adequately at that time – their quality of life was suffering, as well as their animals. From this experience, I knew that I wanted a role where I could help and support people.
This led to working as a healthcare support worker in residential care for vulnerable young adults with autism, learning disabilities or mental health conditions. I really developed my passion for providing care for people which aided both their mental and physical health and recognised the importance of choice, valued social roles and activities. I knew that I wanted to continue to provide this kind of holistic care, so a career in occupational therapy really stood out to me.
Describe occupational therapy?
As an occupational therapist, you really have to think outside of the box to provide the best care for people. You have to become an all-round healthcare professional as you provide holistic care and rehabilitation to a variety of patients with a range of needs.
It combines the biological, social and psychological aspects of medicine which makes for a career that is very diverse and challenging.