Sex trafficking and occupational therapy: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: Survivors of sex trafficking experience complex trauma that disrupts daily life, from self-care to social reintegration. Occupational therapy, with its focus on restoring participation through everyday activities, has a vital role in recovery and prevention. However, its contributions remain underexplored. Objectives: To map the role of occupational therapy in supporting survivors of sex trafficking by identifying intervention strategies, reported outcomes, and knowledge gaps. Materials and methods: The review followed Arksey and O’Malley’s framework and was reported using PRISMA-ScR, a comprehensive search strategy that identified studies involving occupational therapy with survivors. Extracted data were charted and thematically analysed, with findings organized through Bronfenbrenner’s Social Ecological Model. Results: Sixteen studies highlighted the profession’s emerging role across levels of care. Interventions emphasized trauma-informed, client-centred approaches to enhance occupational engagement, skill development, social reintegration and executive functioning. Interdisciplinary collaboration, education, and advocacy efforts require enhancement at the systemic level. Most scholarship originated in the United States, with growing international interest despite smaller sample sizes and limited follow-up. Conclusions and significance: This scoping review highlights the emerging contributions of occupational therapy to the recovery and advocacy of trafficking survivors. Future research should expand cross-cultural evidence, strengthen systemic integration, and promote inclusive, interdisciplinary approaches.