Following significant health events such as a stroke, surgery or injury, there is often a period of rehabilitation in which a person can regain lost skills and recover. Therapists can have many different skills and qualifications but all can help someone following an illness or injury. The focus of Therapists is on recovery and coping in addition to personal care and maintenance programs.

Therapists have a wide variety of backgrounds which may include professional qualifications, clinical expertise and more practical skills. Physiotherapists, OTs, Speech Pathologists for example have a professional designation and are regulated by provincial associations. Recreation therapists can also provide skilled rehabilitation from many conditions and in many environments.