How Can an Occupational Therapist Help You?
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a condition that affects how the brain and body communicate. It results in neurological symptoms that appear similar to those seen in conditions like epilepsy, stroke, or multiple sclerosis but without the structural damage to the nervous system that typically characterises those conditions. For people living with FND, this can be a confusing and often overwhelming experience. Fortunately, occupational therapy (OT) offers practical, empowering support that can make a significant difference in daily life.
Understanding Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)
FND is considered a disorder of functional connectivity. Although the brain’s structure looks normal, the way it functions — particularly in sending and receiving signals — is disrupted. As a result, people with FND can experience a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Seizure-like episodes (non-epileptic seizures)
- Limb weakness or paralysis
- Gait (walking) disturbances
- Tremors or abnormal movements
- Sensory issues such as numbness or tingling
- Speech difficulties
- Cognitive challenges such as brain fog or memory lapses
Symptoms can vary from person to person and may fluctuate over time. Often, these symptoms can be as disabling as those found in other neurological conditions. However, because standard tests (like MRIs and EEGs) may not show abnormalities, people with FND can face misunderstanding, stigma, and even misdiagnosis.
The Psychological and Emotional Impact
Because of its complex nature, FND not only affects a person physically but can also have a significant emotional and psychological impact. Many individuals experience anxiety, depression, or a feeling of isolation. The unpredictability of symptoms can lead to loss of independence, social withdrawal, and challenges with work, education, or caregiving responsibilities.
This is where a holistic and client-centred approach like occupational therapy becomes incredibly valuable.
How Can Occupational Therapy Help People with FND?
Occupational therapists (OTs) work with people to support their ability to participate in meaningful activities and everyday tasks, even when facing physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges. When it comes to FND, the role of an OT is multifaceted and tailored to each person’s specific needs, goals, and environment.
Here are some of the key ways occupational therapy can help individuals with FND:
1. Functional Assessment and Collaborative Goal Setting
An OT starts by gaining a deep understanding of how FND affects your daily life. This includes assessing your physical abilities, sensory experiences, cognition, mood, and lifestyle. From there, the therapist will work collaboratively with you to set achievable, meaningful goals — such as getting back to work, managing fatigue, or being able to cook a meal independently.
2. Movement Retraining and Graded Activity
Many people with FND experience functional movement symptoms such as tremors, weakness, or difficulty walking. Occupational therapists can help retrain movement through task-specific, goal-oriented activities. This might involve breaking down tasks into smaller steps, using adaptive techniques, or practising to do things in a way that gradually builds confidence and ability.
Rather than focusing on traditional strength-based exercises, OT uses principles of motor relearning and neuroplasticity — helping the brain to “relearn” healthy patterns of movement through repetition and positive feedback.
3. Fatigue and Energy Management
Fatigue is a common symptom of FND, often exacerbated by physical or emotional stress. OTs help clients develop personalised energy conservation strategies such as:
- Prioritising tasks
- Pacing activities throughout the day
- Using tools or techniques to reduce physical effort
- Establishing healthy routines
These strategies enable individuals to use their energy more effectively, improving participation and reducing symptom flare-ups.
4. Cognitive Strategies and Support
FND can affect concentration, memory, and information processing. Occupational therapists can introduce practical tools to support cognitive functioning, such as:
- Scheduling tools and reminders
- Environmental modifications to reduce distractions
- Step-by-step task planning
- Relaxation and mindfulness techniques to manage mental fatigue
By supporting cognitive functions, OTs help clients feel more in control and capable in their daily environments.
5. Support for Emotional Wellbeing
While OTs do not provide psychotherapy, they play an important role in supporting emotional well-being by creating safe, empowering spaces for clients to explore their challenges. Activities that promote mindfulness, creativity, or self-expression can be incorporated into therapy sessions to reduce stress and support emotional regulation.
Occupational therapists also work closely with psychologists, physiotherapists, and other professionals to ensure a holistic and coordinated care plan.
6. Environmental and Lifestyle Modifications
Part of living well with FND includes adjusting to your environment and lifestyle. OTs can provide recommendations such as:
- Adapting your home or workplace
- Introducing assistive equipment or technology
- Structuring routines for better rest and recovery
- Planning for safe community mobility
These changes help create a more supportive environment that minimises triggers and promotes independence.
A Client-Centred, Empowering Approach
FND can feel unpredictable and frustrating, especially when symptoms interfere with everyday life. Occupational therapy offers hope and practical support. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, OT helps you work towards your personal goals, rebuild routines, and regain a sense of identity and purpose.
At its core, occupational therapy is about helping people do things that matter most to them — whether getting dressed, caring for family, going to school or work, or enjoying leisure activities. For someone with FND, regaining these abilities can be life-changing. Living with Functional Neurological Disorder can be complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. Occupational therapy offers a person-centred approach to help you manage symptoms, build confidence, and re-engage with meaningful aspects of life. Recovery with FND is often not about “curing” the condition, but about retraining the brain and body, developing coping skills, and restoring independence — all of which occupational therapists are uniquely trained to support.