About occupational therapists
Occupational therapists help people gain or recover independence in daily activities after an illness, injury or developmental difficulty: self-care, school, work and leisure. They often work with children with autism or sensory needs and with older adults.
Getting mental health care in Belgium
Public health system · INAMI/RIZIV first-line psychological care via mental health networks
Psychologists and orthopedagogues affiliated with a mental health network contracted with INAMI provide reimbursed first-line care without a prescription. Up to age 23 sessions are free; adults pay nothing for the first session and then 11 euros per individual session (4 euros with increased reimbursement), with up to 8 support sessions or on average 8 (max 20) treatment sessions per 12 months. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Psychologists' Commission (Psychologencommissie / Commission des Psychologues, Compsy). The title psychologist is protected and every psychologist must be registered with Compsy; clinical psychologists additionally need a federal visa and regional recognition. The official list shows whether registration is active for the current year. Search the official register
Insurance and coverage
Sessions with psychologists outside the INAMI convention are not reimbursed by compulsory health insurance.
Urgent help in Belgium
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: inami.fgov.be, test-achats.be
What does a occupational therapist do?
An occupational therapist helps people take part in the everyday activities that matter to them, from washing and dressing to studying, working, socialising or managing a home. Day to day they assess how a physical, mental health, developmental or cognitive condition affects daily life, then work on skills, routines, adaptations and equipment. They see children, adults and older people, often within multidisciplinary teams.
When to see a occupational therapist
Consider an occupational therapist when daily tasks have become difficult after an illness, injury or stroke, when a mental health condition makes routines and work hard to sustain, when a child has sensory, motor or self-care difficulties, or when an older person needs support to stay independent at home. For emotional therapy itself, a psychologist is usually the main professional.
How is it different from other professionals?
An occupational therapist focuses on function and participation in daily life, while a physiotherapist works mainly on movement, strength and physical rehabilitation. A psychologist addresses thoughts, emotions and behaviour. A neuropsychologist assesses cognitive functions in detail; the occupational therapist then helps apply strategies in real-life activities. In mental health, they focus on routines, roles, meaningful activity and independence.
What happens in the first session
The first session usually explores your daily routine, what you find difficult, what you want to be able to do again and your home, school or work environment. The therapist may observe you doing some tasks or use standardised assessments. Bring medical reports and a list of the activities that matter most, and ask about goals, home visits and recommended adaptations.
How long does the process take?
Occupational therapy can range from a few sessions to recommend adaptations to a longer programme of regular sessions to rebuild skills and routines. Sessions often last between 45 and 60 minutes, sometimes at home or in the community. Duration depends on the condition, goals, age, available support and how quickly new strategies become part of daily life.
Online or in person?
Online sessions can be useful for reviewing routines, planning activities, coaching family members or carers, and assessing a home environment through video. Many interventions, however, rely on practising tasks, handling equipment or sensory work, which are better in person, especially with children or after physical or cognitive changes. Combining both formats is often practical.
How to check their qualifications
Occupational therapy is a regulated health profession in many countries. Check that the therapist holds a recognised degree and is registered with the licensing body or professional college where they practise. Ask about further training in your area, such as paediatrics, sensory integration, mental health, neurology or older adults, and their experience in similar cases.
What affects the price?
Costs vary with session length, the therapist’s specialisation and experience, the city, and whether sessions take place at a clinic, at home or online. Assessments, reports and home-adaptation plans may be charged separately, and equipment is an extra cost. Ask whether public health or social services, insurers or disability support schemes cover part of it.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in Belgium cover psychological care?
Psychologists and orthopedagogues affiliated with a mental health network contracted with INAMI provide reimbursed first-line care without a prescription. Up to age 23 sessions are free; adults pay nothing for the first session and then 11 euros per individual session (4 euros with increased reimbursement), with up to 8 support sessions or on average 8 (max 20) treatment sessions per 12 months.
How do I check that a occupational therapist is licensed in Belgium?
Psychologists' Commission (Psychologencommissie / Commission des Psychologues, Compsy): The title psychologist is protected and every psychologist must be registered with Compsy; clinical psychologists additionally need a federal visa and regional recognition. The official list shows whether registration is active for the current year.