Which therapeutic service focuses on improving the ability to perform tasks and function independently, as provided by an occupational therapist?

• A. Counseling Services
• B. Occupational Therapy
• C. Speech/Language Therapy
• D. Physical Therapy

Answer: (B)

The key idea is helping someone perform daily tasks and function independently. An occupational therapist focuses on evaluating everyday activities a person needs to do—like dressing, eating, writing, and school or work tasks—and designs activities, strategies, and environmental changes to improve those skills. This can include improving fine motor control and hand–eye coordination, developing planning and sequencing for tasks, addressing sensory processing, and recommending adaptive equipment or simple changes to the surroundings to make tasks easier. The goal is that the person can participate in everyday life with less assistance.

Counseling centers on mental health and coping strategies. Speech/Language therapy targets communication and swallowing. Physical therapy concentrates on movement and mobility, such as strength, balance, and gross motor skills. So, the service that explicitly aims to boost independence in daily tasks through task-specific practice and adaptations is occupational therapy.