Glossary of Job Descriptions in the medical field

The professions are listed in French alphabetical order. For the English alphabetical order, please consult the English version of this glossary. The titles and scopes of practice of some professions differ between France and English-speaking countries. The notes below highlight some of the key differences.

GLOSSARY

Key Differences Between Professions in France and English-Speaking Countries

Professional titles, training requirements, and scopes of practice can vary from one country to another. The following notes highlight some key differences.

Physiotherapist (Masseur-kinésithérapeute)

Physiotherapists help prevent and treat physical impairments and support the recovery and maintenance of physical abilities, using techniques such as manual therapy and therapeutic exercises. Difference in English-speaking countries: In the United States, physical therapists (PTs) complete doctoral-level training, and their scope of practice may differ from that of French physiotherapists, particularly regarding diagnosis and direct access to care.

Osteopath (Ostéopathe)

Osteopaths use manual techniques to address mobility issues and relieve certain symptoms. In France, osteopathy is subject to specific regulations and is distinct from the medical profession of osteopathic physician in the United States. Difference in English-speaking countries: In the United States, Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) are physicians. In the United Kingdom, osteopathy is a separate, regulated profession.

Occupational Therapist (Ergothérapeute)

Occupational therapists help people develop or regain independence in everyday activities. They may recommend environmental adaptations, assistive equipment, and strategies to facilitate participation at school, at work, and in daily life. Difference in English-speaking countries: The roles of occupational therapists vary by country and professional setting. Some areas of practice overlap with those of French psychomotriciens.

Psychomotor Therapist (Psychomotricien)

Psychomotor therapists work with people who have difficulties involving coordination, muscle tone, body awareness, balance, or spatial and temporal organization. They use body-based and movement activities tailored to each person's needs. Difference in English-speaking countries: There is not always a direct equivalent to the French profession of psychomotricien. Depending on the country, some interventions may be provided by occupational therapists or other professionals.

Speech and Language Professionals: Orthophonistes, SLPs and SLTs

In France, an orthophoniste is a regulated healthcare professional who assesses and treats difficulties involving communication, spoken and written language, speech, voice, and certain swallowing disorders. In English-speaking countries, comparable professionals may be called speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in the United States or speech and language therapists (SLTs) in the United Kingdom. Important note: Professional titles and licensing requirements vary between countries. A foreign qualification does not automatically authorize someone to practise under the French title orthophoniste. Speech-language professionals trained abroad should use the professional title appropriate to their qualifications and authorization to practise in France.

Social Worker (Assistant de service social)

Social workers support individuals and families experiencing social difficulties. They provide information about rights and available services, help with administrative procedures, and direct people to appropriate resources. Difference in English-speaking countries: The responsibilities of social workers vary by country and may include a broader range of roles in healthcare, education, child protection, and social support.

Social and Educational Support Worker (Moniteur-éducateur)

These professionals support people with disabilities or social difficulties in everyday activities, the development of independence, and participation in group life. Difference in English-speaking countries: There is not always a direct equivalent. Similar responsibilities may be shared among different support workers and educational professionals.

Special Education and Social Support Professional (Éducateur spécialisé)

These professionals support children, adolescents, and adults experiencing social, behavioral, or disability-related difficulties. They promote independence, social development, and participation in community life. Difference in English-speaking countries: Depending on the country and setting, some responsibilities may fall to social workers, special education professionals, or other support practitioners.

Educational and Social Support Worker (Accompagnant éducatif et social — AES)

These professionals support people with disabilities or reduced independence in everyday activities. They promote well-being, communication, and participation in social life. Difference in English-speaking countries: Comparable roles may be carried out by care workers, healthcare assistants, or other support professionals, depending on the setting.

Psychotherapist (Psychothérapeute)

Psychotherapists support people experiencing psychological, emotional, or relationship difficulties using therapeutic approaches suited to their needs. Difference in English-speaking countries: Regulations, required qualifications, and the professionals authorized to practise psychotherapy vary from country to country.

Midwife (Sage-femme)

Midwives provide pregnancy care, support childbirth, and care for mothers and newborns. In France, their scope of practice also includes certain preventive healthcare services and gynecological follow-up. Difference in English-speaking countries: The training, competencies, and scope of responsibility of midwives vary between countries.

Understanding the Differences Between Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Psychomotor Therapy

Although these three professions may address some overlapping difficulties, they differ in their main areas of focus and approaches to treatment.

• Physiotherapy (kinésithérapie) focuses on movement, physical function and mobility. Treatment may include therapeutic exercises, manual techniques and the rehabilitation of movement.

• Occupational therapy (ergothérapie) focuses on helping people participate as independently as possible in everyday activities. This may involve adapting tasks or environments, recommending assistive equipment and practising daily living skills.

• Psychomotor therapy (psychomotricité) focuses on the relationship between movement, body awareness, coordination, emotional regulation and overall development. Sessions may involve movement, rhythm, balance, play and body-based activities.

Which professional is right for your child? The most appropriate approach depends on your child's individual difficulties and goals. The professions may complement one another, and a child may benefit from input from more than one professional. Discuss your concerns with your child's healthcare team to explore the available options.