How to Prepare for Your First Online Occupational Therapy Session

Confirm the Appointment Details

Check the date, time, time zone, platform and expected duration. Confirm whether the therapist will send a link and whether forms, consent or payment need to be completed beforehand.

Tell the therapist where you will physically be during the session. Professional rules may depend on the client’s location, not only the therapist’s location.

Keep the clinic’s contact number available in case the video connection fails.

Prepare the Technology

• Use a charged phone, tablet or computer.
• Install or test the required video platform.
• Check the camera, microphone and speaker.
• Use a stable internet connection where possible.
• Position the device so it does not need to be held throughout the session.
• Close unrelated apps and notifications when practical.
• Have a backup phone number or connection plan.

A larger screen may make demonstrations easier to see, while a portable device may be useful when showing another room. Choose the safest practical option.

Choose a Safe and Useful Space

The ideal space depends on the goal. A desk may be appropriate for handwriting or work setup. A kitchen may be relevant for meal preparation. A bedroom or bathroom should only be shown when privacy, dignity and safety are protected.

• Remove trip hazards and unstable furniture.
• Use good lighting without strong glare.
• Limit background noise where possible.
• Keep confidential information out of camera view.
• Ask household members not to interrupt unless they are participating.

Do not attempt stairs, transfers, sharp tools, hot cooking or another risky activity simply because the therapist is online.

Write Down Your Goals and Concerns

Prepare two or three activities that are most important. Examples include dressing, handwriting, fatigue during cooking, organising a morning routine or helping a child tolerate grooming.

Note:

• What is difficult
• When the difficulty began
• How much help is currently needed
• What has already been tried
• What makes the activity easier or harder
• Any pain, falls, medical or safety concerns

Specific examples are more useful than general statements such as “needs better coordination.”

Gather Relevant Materials

Only gather items connected to the activity and known to be safe. Depending on the goal, these might include clothing fasteners, school tools, a usual cup, a schedule, workplace equipment or photographs of the home setup.

Do not purchase specialised equipment before the assessment unless advised by an appropriately qualified professional. Online product lists are not individual recommendations.

Medical reports, school notes or a medication list may be useful when relevant and shared through an agreed secure method.

Preparing a Child or Caregiver

Explain the session in simple, neutral language. The child may not need to remain in front of the screen for the entire appointment. Parent discussion and observation of a natural activity may be more useful.

Have a familiar activity available and avoid scheduling the session at a time when the child is usually hungry, tired or rushed. Another adult may help with the camera or siblings when possible.

For an adult who needs assistance, confirm consent before a caregiver joins. Decide who will speak, demonstrate or move the device.

What to Do During the Session

• Confirm identity, location, privacy and emergency contact information.
• Tell the therapist when instructions are unclear.
• Move the camera only when safe.
• Stop any activity that causes pain, dizziness, breathlessness or risk.
• Ask what the therapist can and cannot assess online.
• Write down agreed next steps.

The therapist may recommend an in-person assessment or another professional if the online view is insufficient.

What to Do After the Session

Review the recommendations and clarify how often a strategy should be tried, what outcome to observe and when to stop. Keep any written plan in a practical location.

Record specific changes in the activity rather than judging success by whether the session felt busy. Contact the therapist if new safety, medical or functional concerns arise.

Read When Is Online Occupational Therapy a Suitable Option? and review the centre’s Online Therapy page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need special equipment?

Usually not for the first discussion. Use the ordinary items involved in the activity unless the therapist advises otherwise.

Can I use a phone?

Yes, when the platform, screen and camera position are suitable. A larger device may be easier for some demonstrations.

What if the connection fails?

Use the backup plan agreed with the clinic, such as reconnecting or continuing by phone where appropriate.

Should I record the session?

Only with explicit agreement and in accordance with privacy and professional requirements.