History of Occupational Therapy

  • Early Misunderstandings

    Patients with mental illnesses are considered a threat to society, and medical options aren't available.
  • Increased Engagement

    People with illnesses benefit from increased engagement of occupational therapy.
  • Better Understanding of Mental Illness

    The terms ADL and IADL are created to help better understanding patients.
  • Susan Tracy Publishes the Book

    Tracy publishes her book "Studies in Invalid Occupations" to accentuate the benefits of occupational participation.
  • Period: to

    Development during the World Wars

    During the world wars, there was a great push for wounded soldier care using occupational therapy. This help cemented occupational therapy as a need in science and modern medicine.
  • Creation of the AOTA

    William Rush creates the National Society for Promotion of Occupational Therapy (now AOTA) which brings better understanding to the unique and holistic practice.
  • First Educational Program for Therapists

    Eleanor Clark Slagle starts training courses at Hull House in Chicago.
  • Therapy Research in Illinois

    Slagle directed research at Illinois and organized a therapy program for the state's mental hospitals.
  • OT Assistants

    St. Catherine University offers program for aspiring Occupational Therapy Assistants, helping evolve the profession.
  • Study of Sensory Integration

    A. Jean Ayers' book "Sensory Integration and Learning Disorders" allowed occupational therapy to lead the industry in the study and treatment of sensory integration dysfunctions.
  • Occupational Association of California

    In 1976, Southern California and Northern California incorporated associations to further along the development of occupational therapy.
  • National Occupational Therapy is Formed

    President Bush signs a proclamation for National Occupational Day.
  • Master's Needed

    In 2007, the education requirement needed to practice Occupational Therapy switched to Masters.