Occupational Therapist (OT) Career Guide

What is an occupational therapist?

An occupational therapist is a kind of superhero in the healthcare world. Their main mission? To help people of all ages do everyday tasks on their own, especially if they’re dealing with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. Whether it’s a kid who needs help in school or an adult recovering from an accident, OTs are all about helping people live more independently and enjoyably.

Duties and responsibilities

OTs start by figuring out what each person needs. They look at how someone’s body and mind are working and listen to what that person wants to achieve. Then, they come up with a plan that might include special exercises, tools to help with daily tasks, or new ways to do things. They keep track of how well the plan is working and make changes along the way. OTs also teach families and caregivers how to help, making sure everyone is working together for the best results.

Work environment

Occupational therapists work in lots of places: hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and even in people’s homes. Their job can be pretty active—they might help someone learn to walk again, or teach kids how to hold a pencil correctly. They often work with a team of other health pros, like nurses or speech therapists, to make sure they’re giving the best care possible.

Typical work hours

Most OTs work full-time, and their schedules can be pretty flexible. Some might have to work nights or weekends, especially if they’re in a hospital setting. Others, like those who work in schools, stick to a regular school day schedule. OTs might also offer appointments early in the morning or late in the evening to fit their clients’ busy lives.

---

How to become an occupational therapist

Becoming an occupational therapist is a journey filled with learning and hands-on experience. Here’s how you can start this rewarding career:

Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree

Your first step is to get an undergraduate degree. While there’s no set major you need to choose, studying fields like biology, psychology, or anatomy will give you a great foundation for what’s next. These subjects help you understand the basics you’ll use every day as an OT.

Step 2: Get a master’s degree in occupational therapy

After your bachelor’s, you’ll need a master’s degree in occupational therapy. This usually takes about two years and mixes classroom learning with real-world practice. You’ll dive deep into human anatomy, learn about how bodies and minds work, and start to apply what you learn in practical settings.

Step 3: Complete fieldwork

As part of your master’s program, you’ll do fieldwork in places like hospitals and clinics. This is where you really start to practice being an OT under the guidance of experienced pros, and it’s a great way to see what your future job will be like.

Step 4: Pass the certification exam

Next, you’ll need to pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam. This test makes sure you’re ready to handle everything an OT needs to know and do. Passing this exam is a big step toward your new career.

Step 5: Obtain your license

With your exam passed, you can get your license to practice. The specifics can vary depending on where you live, but generally, you’ll need to show you’ve completed your education and passed your exam. Some places might also check your background.

Step 6: Keep learning

Once you’re working as an OT, keep your skills sharp and your knowledge up-to-date. Attend workshops, take additional courses, and go to conferences. You’ll also need to recertify every three years to keep your NBCOT certification, which means completing certain professional development activities.

---

How much do occupational therapists make?

OT salaries will vary by experience, industry, education, location, and organization size. Specialization within this role, such as pediatric or geriatric occupational therapy, can also affect their earning potential.

Highest paying industries

• Home Health Care Services: $91,000
• Nursing Care Facilities $89,000
• Management of Companies and Enterprises: $87,000
• Specialty Hospitals: $85,000
• General Medical and Surgical Hospitals: $83,000

Browse OT salary data by market

---

Types of occupational therapists

OTs can specialize in different areas, each focusing on helping specific groups of people. Here’s a look at some common types and what they do:

Pediatric occupational therapist

These OTs work with kids who have disabilities, developmental issues, or injuries. Their main goal is to help improve kids’ cognitive, physical, and motor skills. This could mean helping a child learn to tie their shoes or use a spoon. It’s all about boosting their independence and confidence.

Geriatric occupational therapist

These therapists focus on helping older adults. As people age, they might struggle with moving around, remembering things, or doing everyday tasks like dressing or cooking. Geriatric OTs help them keep their independence and live safely at home.

Mental health occupational therapist

Mental health OTs help people who are dealing with mental health issues. They work on practical skills that make everyday life easier and more fulfilling, like managing time, dealing with stress, or socializing. This kind of therapy can really help people feel more in control of their lives.

Physical rehabilitation occupational therapist

These OTs work with people who have physical injuries or disabilities. Their job is to help improve how the body moves and functions, which might involve exercises, stretches, or other physical therapies. They often work as part of a healthcare team to provide comprehensive care.

Hand therapy occupational therapist

Hand therapists are OTs who specialize in problems with the hands and arms, like injuries or conditions like arthritis. They work on getting hands and arms back to being as functional as possible after things like surgery or injury.

---

Top skills for occupational therapists

Becoming a successful OT requires a specific set of skills that enable you to effectively help your patients achieve greater independence. Here’s what you need:

Interpersonal skills

A big part of your job involves building trust with your patients, who may be dealing with significant frustrations due to their conditions. Being empathetic, patient, and trustworthy helps in forming strong connections that facilitate more effective therapy.

Excellent communication

You need to be great at both talking and writing. Clear communication is crucial when explaining treatment plans to patients, their families, and other medical pros. Understanding and articulating the patient’s needs clearly ensures they get the best possible care.

Creativity

No two patients are the same, which means you often need to think creatively to find the right approach for each individual. Adapting your strategies to fit unique situations and coming up with innovative solutions are key to overcoming the varied challenges your patients face.

Problem-solving skills

Occupational therapy often involves complex situations that require you to think critically and solve problems efficiently. Whether you’re figuring out how to modify a patient’s home environment or adapting tools to better suit their needs, the ability to tackle and solve these problems is essential.

Physical stamina

This job can be physically demanding—you might be on your feet for most of the day, assisting patients with exercises or moving them from one place to another. Good physical health and stamina are important to perform these tasks effectively without injuring yourself.

Knowledge of human anatomy and physiology

Understanding how the human body works, and the impact of illnesses and injuries on physical function, is fundamental. This knowledge is crucial for designing effective treatment plans that address each patient’s specific health issues.

---

Occupational therapist career path options

Occupational therapy is a field with diverse opportunities for career growth and specialization. Here are some paths you might consider if you’re looking to expand your career as an OT:

Specialist roles

You can choose to specialize in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, or developmental disorders. This means working closely with specific groups, such as children with learning disabilities or older adults needing assistance with daily activities. Specializing allows you to deepen your expertise and make a significant impact in specific communities.

Leadership positions

With experience, you can move into leadership roles within your field. This might mean becoming a department head, managing a team of therapists, or overseeing the operations of a therapy center. Leadership roles allow you to shape the practice and quality of care while mentoring new therapists.

Academic and research roles

If you’re interested in shaping the future of occupational therapy, consider a career in academia or research. Teaching at a university level or conducting research to develop new therapeutic techniques can be incredibly fulfilling. This path is perfect for those who love to discover and share knowledge.

Private practice

Starting your own private practice offers the ultimate autonomy in your work. This option lets you set your own hours, choose your clients, and really tailor your practice to suit your interests and lifestyle. Running a private practice also involves some business savvy, as you’ll need to handle everything from marketing to accounting.

---

Similar job titles

• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
• Certified Nursing Assistant
• Nurse Practitioner
• Physician Assistant
• Physical Therapist
• Physical Therapy Assistant
• Registered Dietitian
• Registered Nurse
• Speech-Language Pathologist

---

Position trends and outlook for occupational therapists

The field of occupational therapy is experiencing dynamic changes and growth, driven by technological advancements and demographic shifts. Here’s what’s shaping the future of this essential healthcare profession:

• Tech integration: Telehealth, for example, is revolutionizing patient care by allowing therapists to offer remote services, making therapy more accessible. This not only expands the reach of OTs but also enhances their ability to monitor progress and manage patient records efficiently.
• Aging population: As the global population ages, the demand for rehabilitative services is surging. Older adults often require assistance to continue living independently, and OTs are crucial in providing the support needed to manage daily activities.

Employment projections

The need for OTs is expected to grow significantly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field is projected to increase by 25 percent through 2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is fueled by the ongoing need to support individuals with various disabilities and chronic conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, cerebral palsy, autism, and limb loss.

---

Occupational therapist career tips

Embrace technology

Being tech-savvy is a big plus in today’s healthcare environment. Familiarize yourself with assistive technology devices that aid in mobility, communication, and everyday activities. Additionally, understanding how to navigate electronic health records systems can set you apart in the medical field.

Develop observational skills

A key part of being an effective OT is the ability to observe a client’s behavior, environment, and physical traits. Sharp observational skills lead to accurate assessments, enabling you to design more effective treatment plans.

Continue learning

The field of occupational therapy is ever-evolving, so continual learning is crucial. Stay updated with the latest in therapy techniques, such as:

• Pediatric occupational therapy
• Occupational therapy for the elderly
• Advanced physical rehabilitation methods
• Therapeutic use of technology

Emphasize preventive care

Teaching clients about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle can prevent the onset of conditions that require therapy. By promoting preventive care, you help improve your clients’ overall quality of life.

Build a professional network

Connecting with other healthcare pros can lead to new opportunities and insights. Networking allows you to exchange valuable information and expand your practice. To enhance your connections, consider joining organizations like:

• American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
• World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT)

Pursue relevant certifications

Specialized certifications can boost your career and appeal to potential employers. These certifications demonstrate your expertise and commitment to your profession. Look into credentials such as the Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) or Board Certification in Pediatrics (BCP) offered by the American Occupational Therapy Association.

---

FAQs