How to Become an Occupational Therapist (Heal, Hope, Help!)
If you’ve ever dreamed of making a difference in people’s lives by helping them regain their functionality or wondered what it takes to become an occupational therapist, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to embark on a career as an occupational therapist. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The education and qualifications necessary.
- How to secure a job as an occupational therapist.
So, whether you’re a newcomer to the field or an experienced healthcare professional looking to shift your career, stay tuned.
We’re about to unravel the pathway to becoming an occupational therapist.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become an Occupational Therapist
Step 1: Understand the Role of an Occupational Therapist
Before embarking on a career path as an occupational therapist, it is critical to understand the role and responsibilities that come with this profession.
Occupational therapists help patients improve their ability to perform tasks in their daily living and working environments.
They work with individuals who suffer from a mentally, physically, developmentally, or emotionally disabling condition.
Occupational therapists use treatments to develop, recover, or maintain the daily living and work skills of their patients.
This profession is not about solving the problem for the patient, but rather teaching and enabling them to do tasks independently to enhance their self-sufficiency.
They work in a variety of settings including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, private practices, and home health agencies.
Being an occupational therapist requires a blend of understanding different medical conditions, creativity to adapt activities for individual needs, and people skills to foster patient-therapist relationships.
It is also essential to understand that the role might involve physical exertion as therapists often need to lift patients or heavy equipment.
This understanding will help you decide if this career aligns with your interests, strengths, and long-term career goals.
Step 2: Obtain a Relevant Undergraduate Degree
For pursuing a career as an Occupational Therapist, it is crucial to obtain a relevant undergraduate degree.
This could be in fields such as psychology, biology, health science, or kinesiology.
These programs provide foundational knowledge that you will need in your career, including understanding human anatomy, physiology, and psychology.
During your undergraduate program, you may also have the opportunity to participate in internships or field work in occupational therapy settings.
This will provide you with hands-on experience in the field and help you understand the daily tasks of an occupational therapist.
Furthermore, having a relevant undergraduate degree can increase your chances of being accepted into a master’s program in occupational therapy, which is the next step towards becoming an occupational therapist.
While earning your degree, it is also recommended to take courses in areas such as human growth and development, behavioral sciences, biology, and anatomy to help prepare you for the coursework in a master’s program.
You might also want to consider volunteering or working in occupational therapy settings to gain real-world experience.
Remember, the goal is to build a strong foundation for your understanding of the human body, how it works, and how to support individuals in achieving their functional goals, which is the core responsibility of an occupational therapist.
Step 3: Volunteer or Work in Related Fields
Before pursuing your graduate degree, it’s beneficial to gain some real-world experience in the field of occupational therapy or related areas.
Volunteering or working in a rehabilitation center, hospital, or school can provide valuable insight into the profession and help you develop essential skills.
You might assist occupational therapists, observe therapy sessions, or work with individuals who have physical, mental, or developmental disabilities.
This hands-on experience can help you better understand the patients’ needs and the role of an occupational therapist.
Furthermore, it may also provide opportunities to network with professionals in the field, which could be helpful when looking for employment or internships in the future.
Experience in related fields can also strengthen your application for graduate programs as it demonstrates commitment and familiarity with the profession.
It’s advisable to contact the licensing board in your state or the university you plan to apply to, to understand which types of experiences are most relevant and beneficial for your career path.
Step 4: Complete a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy
If your goal is to become an occupational therapist, obtaining a master’s degree in occupational therapy is one of the key steps to achieve this.
This type of program typically takes two to three years to complete and includes both coursework and fieldwork experience.
These programs are designed to provide comprehensive training in the therapeutic techniques and principles needed to assist individuals with disabilities or injuries in improving their ability to perform daily activities.
The coursework you will take can cover a range of topics, including biology, physiology, kinesiology, and psychology, as well as more specialized areas like pediatric or geriatric therapy.
Additionally, you will also be trained in using assistive devices and creating treatment plans.
The hands-on fieldwork component of the degree is critical, as it allows you to gain practical experience under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist.
This can help you better understand the practical aspects of the job, including patient assessment, treatment planning, and documentation.
Upon completion of your master’s degree, you will be eligible to sit for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam, which is required to become a licensed occupational therapist.
Be sure to carefully prepare for this exam, as passing it is critical for your future career.
Step 5: Undertake Required Fieldwork
As a part of the occupational therapy educational program, students are required to complete fieldwork experiences which can be divided into two types: Level I and Level II.
Level I fieldwork is typically introductory and observational in nature, allowing students to become familiar with the occupational therapy process.
This stage usually happens after initial coursework and helps integrate what you have learned in class with real-world experience.
Level II fieldwork, on the other hand, is more intensive and immersive.
Students are expected to apply theoretical knowledge and clinical skills in actual treatment settings, typically under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist.
This stage involves hands-on, direct patient care, where students learn to evaluate, develop treatment plans, implement interventions, and measure outcomes.
The duration of fieldwork can vary, but Level II fieldwork typically requires a minimum of 24 weeks full-time or its part-time equivalent.
Fieldwork placements can be in a variety of settings including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, mental health facilities, nursing homes, and more.
This gives students the opportunity to explore different areas of occupational therapy and gain a wide range of experience.
Remember, fieldwork is a crucial part of your occupational therapist training, as it provides the real-world application of theories and techniques learned in the classroom.
Make sure to communicate regularly with your supervisors, ask questions, and seek feedback to improve your practice.
Through this, you’ll gain the necessary skills and confidence to become a competent occupational therapist.
Step 6: Pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) Exam
After obtaining your master’s or doctorate degree in occupational therapy, the next critical step is passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) Exam.
This exam is a requirement for all occupational therapists in the United States to become certified practitioners.
The NBCOT Exam is designed to test your understanding of the principles, concepts, and procedures necessary to provide effective patient care.
The exam covers a wide range of areas, including human growth and development, therapeutic interventions, and professional standards and ethics.
In order to take the NBCOT Exam, you must first apply and receive approval from the NBCOT.
This process includes verifying your educational credentials and completing a character review.
Once approved, you can schedule your exam at a Prometric testing center.
Preparing for the NBCOT Exam requires thorough studying and understanding of all facets of occupational therapy.
Many students utilize study guides, practice exams, and review courses to ensure they are fully prepared.
Passing the NBCOT Exam is a significant milestone and puts you one step closer to becoming a licensed occupational therapist.
After passing the exam, you can use the title Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR).
This indicates that you have met the national standards for what defines an occupational therapist.
Step 7: Obtain Licensure in Your State
After you have completed your Master’s or Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy, the next crucial step is to obtain licensure in the state where you wish to practice.
Each state has its own requirements for licensure, so it is important to thoroughly research these beforehand.
Typically, you are required to pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam.
This exam evaluates your understanding of the practical and theoretical aspects of occupational therapy.
It requires a strong foundational knowledge of occupational therapy processes, evaluation, intervention and the ethical practice of occupational therapy.
Once you’ve passed the NBCOT exam, you can apply for licensure in your state.
This generally involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and providing proof of your education and NBCOT certification.
Keep in mind that maintaining your licensure typically requires continuing education.
This ensures that you stay updated on the latest advancements and practices in the field of occupational therapy.
Lastly, some occupational therapists choose to specialize in a certain area such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or mental health.
In these cases, additional certification may be required.
This can further enhance your expertise and marketability in the field.
Step 8: Seek Employment in Various Settings
As an occupational therapist, you have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments depending on your interests and areas of specialty.
These settings may include hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, mental health facilities, and private practices.
Hospitals and rehabilitation centers often hire occupational therapists to help patients recover their skills following an injury or illness.
In schools, occupational therapists work with students to improve skills necessary for school performance, such as handwriting and attention.
Mental health facilities employ occupational therapists to help patients with mental disorders to cope with the challenges of daily life.
Private practice is another option if you prefer to work one-on-one with clients in a more personal setting.
In this case, you may need to market your services and handle the business aspects of your practice.
If you have specific areas of interest, such as working with children, the elderly, or people with specific conditions like stroke or autism, look for job openings in settings where you’re most likely to work with these populations.
During your job search, remember to highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and areas of expertise in your resume and during interviews.
It may also be beneficial to network with other professionals in your field, as they may be able to provide you with job leads or advice on finding employment.
Don’t be disheartened if you don’t immediately find a job in your preferred setting.
Gaining experience in various areas of occupational therapy can make you a more well-rounded therapist and may open up more opportunities in the future.
Step 9: Continue Professional Development
Maintaining and enhancing your professional skills as an Occupational Therapist is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest developments, research, and methodologies in the field.
As a part of this step, you should consider attending seminars, workshops, and training sessions regularly.
Continuing education units (CEUs) are often a requirement for maintaining licensure, and these can be obtained through various professional development courses or by attending conferences.
You might also consider getting further certification in a specialty area such as pediatrics or geriatrics to enhance your skills and increase job opportunities.
Participating in research and contributing to occupational therapy literature can also be part of your professional development.
Staying connected with the occupational therapy community through professional organizations can provide you with opportunities for networking, mentoring, and learning from others in the field.
Remember, the field of occupational therapy is continuously evolving.
Therefore, it’s essential to remain curious, adaptable and committed to lifelong learning to provide the best care for your clients.
Step 10: Join Professional Organizations and Networks
As an occupational therapist, it can be extremely beneficial to join professional organizations and networks.
Such groups can provide you with opportunities to connect with other professionals in the field, learn about new research and treatment techniques, and gain access to resources that can enhance your practice.
Consider joining the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), which is the premier national organization for occupational therapists.
They offer opportunities for continuing education, research updates, networking events, and access to a community of other occupational therapy professionals.
Similarly, you may want to join your local or state occupational therapy association for more localized networking and professional development opportunities.
Some states also have special interest groups focused on specific areas of occupational therapy.
In addition to these, there are online forums and social media groups where you can connect with other therapists from around the world.
These platforms can provide a space to share ideas, discuss issues, and seek advice from other practitioners.
Remember that joining these organizations is not a one-time event; active participation is key.
Attend meetings, participate in discussions, take up leadership roles if possible, and make the most out of the networking opportunities.
By immersing yourself in the occupational therapy community, you can stay informed about the latest trends, improve your skills, and build a strong professional network that can help you in your career.
Step 11: Consider Specialization and Further Certification
After establishing yourself as a practicing occupational therapist, you may want to consider specializing in a specific area of occupational therapy.
Specialties can include pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, physical rehabilitation, or hand therapy.
Specialization can help you become more proficient in a particular area, provide better care for your patients, and could potentially increase job opportunities and salary.
In addition to specializing, you may also consider obtaining further certification.
Organizations such as the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) offer advanced certifications in areas like pediatric, geriatric, environmental modification, and feeding, eating, and swallowing.
Further certification can not only enhance your knowledge and skills but can also showcase your dedication and commitment to the field.
It’s important to note that additional training and education may be required to achieve these certifications.
Regularly attending workshops, seminars, and continuing education courses can help you stay updated with the latest advancements and trends in occupational therapy.
This ongoing learning can be crucial to providing the best possible care for your patients.
Occupational Therapist Roles and Responsibilities
Occupational Therapists aim to improve people’s ability to perform daily life activities and work tasks.
They work with individuals who have physical, mental or social limitations and use scientifically chosen meaningful activities to prevent, lessen or overcome difficulties.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Assessment
- Conduct comprehensive assessments of clients’ physical, emotional, or cognitive abilities.
- Identify barriers that limit individuals’ ability to carry out daily activities.
- Write reports detailing client’s health and progress.
Treatment Planning
- Develop and adapt treatment plans according to clients’ goals, health condition and environment.
- Implement therapeutic interventions tailored to the client’s needs and abilities.
- Update treatment plans as necessary, based on clients’ progress and changes in health status.
Treatment Implementation
- Provide rehabilitation, support, and guidance to clients to improve their ability to perform tasks.
- Use adaptive equipment and devices to support clients’ independence and safety.
- Teach clients new ways of approaching tasks and educate them on how to break down activities into achievable components.
Educational Guidance
- Educate clients and caregivers about activities and strategies to promote clients’ independence and health.
- Teach clients exercises to help improve physical and cognitive functionality.
Collaboration
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary healthcare teams to provide holistic care.
- Coordinate with other healthcare professionals, family members, and caregivers for the effective implementation of the therapy plan.
Advocacy
- Promote the importance and benefits of occupational therapy to the public and healthcare industry.
- Advocate for the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities or difficulties in performing daily activities.
Documentation
- Maintain accurate, comprehensive, and timely documentation of assessments, treatments, and client progress.
Research
- Stay updated with the latest research and advancements in occupational therapy.
- Apply evidence-based practices and interventions in therapy.
Ethics
- Follow professional ethical guidelines and legal regulations pertaining to occupational therapy practice.
Continuing Education
- Participate in educational opportunities to update knowledge and practice skills.
- Attend workshops, conferences, and training programs to stay abreast of the latest trends in occupational therapy.
What Does an Occupational Therapist Do?
Occupational Therapists typically work in healthcare settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient clinics.
They can also work in school systems, home health services, and private practice.
Their primary role involves assisting patients across various age groups to develop, recover, improve, and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working.
This is often done through the therapeutic use of everyday activities or occupations.
Occupational Therapists assess and record a patient’s progress, and adjust treatments accordingly.
They may use a variety of therapeutic techniques, adaptive equipment, and assistive technology to improve a patient’s ability to perform daily tasks at home or work.
Their job is to provide strategies to overcome barriers that are preventing individuals from engaging in meaningful and purposeful activities.
These barriers can be related to physical injury or illness, mental health conditions, developmental disorders, or the effects of aging.
Occupational Therapists also educate family members and employers on how to accommodate and support the individual in performing these tasks, promoting patient independence and overall well-being.
Whether it’s helping children with disabilities participate fully in school and social situations, assisting people recovering from injury to regain skills, or providing supports for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes, Occupational Therapists play a crucial role in improving the quality of life of their patients.
Essential Occupational Therapist Skills
- Active Listening: The ability to pay full attention to patients, understand their concerns, and responding thoughtfully is crucial. Occupational therapists must be able to provide their full attention during patient interactions.
- Assessment and Evaluation: Therapists must assess and evaluate a patient’s condition, abilities, and needs to develop an effective treatment plan. They must be skilled in conducting physical, psychological, and environmental assessments.
- Problem-solving: Devising creative solutions to help patients overcome their challenges is a key part of the job. Therapists must be able to analyze situations and find adaptive strategies for various disabilities and conditions.
- Interpersonal Skills: Occupational therapists work closely with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals. They must be able to build relationships, manage conflicts, and work effectively within a team.
- Knowledge of Therapeutic Techniques: Understanding a wide range of therapeutic techniques and knowing when to apply them is essential. This includes physical exercises, activities of daily living (ADL) training, and cognitive-behavioral techniques.
- Patient Education: Occupational therapists need to educate patients and caregivers about conditions, treatments, and ways to cope. This involves clear communication and presentation skills.
- Flexibility: Patients’ needs can change over time, and therapists must be able to adapt their treatment plans accordingly. They must be open to change and able to handle unexpected situations.
- Record Keeping: Therapists must document their patients’ progress and maintain accurate records. Proficiency in using electronic health records (EHR) systems is often required.
- Knowledge of Disability and Illness Impacts: Understanding how various illnesses, injuries, and disabilities can impact a person’s life is vital. Therapists must be able to relate to their patients and show empathy.
- Physical Stamina: Occupational therapy often involves physical activities, such as demonstrating exercises. Therapists must have the physical ability to perform these tasks.
- Research Skills: Keeping up-to-date with the latest research and treatment methods is essential for providing the best care. Therapists must be comfortable with researching and applying medical literature.
- Leadership: Often, occupational therapists lead rehabilitation teams, coordinating with other healthcare professionals. Leadership skills, including decision-making and delegation, are important.
- Time Management: Balancing multiple patients, administrative tasks, and professional development requires excellent time management skills. Therapists must be organized and efficient in their work.
Occupational Therapist Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Entry-Level Occupational Therapist
Your journey as an Occupational Therapist usually begins at the entry-level stage.
During this time, you will be absorbing as much knowledge as possible and gaining practical experience.
Your responsibilities may include evaluating patients, developing treatment plans, and providing hands-on therapy.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest occupational therapy techniques and developments.
- Seeking Guidance: Don’t shy away from asking for guidance from more experienced therapists.
- Active Participation: Show enthusiasm and actively participate in all aspects of patient care.
The Ascent: Occupational Therapist
With experience and growing confidence, you’ll move into the role of an Occupational Therapist.
In this stage, you’ll handle more complex cases, oversee therapy sessions, and may start supervising therapy assistants or students.
Here’s how to excel in this stage:
- Problem-Solving: Develop your problem-solving skills by working with a variety of patients with different needs.
- Collaboration: Work effectively with your peers, patients, and their families for optimal patient care.
- Quality Care: Focus on providing high-quality, compassionate care that helps patients achieve their goals.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Occupational Therapist
The next step in your career is the Senior Occupational Therapist position.
In this role, you will be recognized for your expertise and may take on leadership roles, like supervising a team of therapists or leading a department.
To thrive as a Senior Occupational Therapist:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and help less experienced therapists develop their skills.
- Strategic Thinking: Consider the bigger picture and devise effective treatment strategies for complex cases.
- Leadership: Inspire others with your work ethic and commitment to patient care.
Beyond the Horizon: Managerial and Specialized Roles
As your career advances, you may choose to go into management as a Rehab Manager or Director of Rehab, or you might decide to specialize in a specific area of occupational therapy.
These roles involve more responsibilities and strategic decision-making.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Leadership: Drive initiatives and shape the direction of your department or specialty area.
- Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to effectively guide your team.
- Specialization: Consider specializing in an area of occupational therapy that particularly interests you, such as pediatrics or geriatrics.
Pinnacle of Success: Department Head or Director of Rehabilitation Services
At the highest levels of the occupational therapy career path, you might become a Department Head or Director of Rehabilitation Services.
In these roles, you’ll make critical decisions, manage larger teams, and shape the overall strategy of your organization’s occupational therapy services.
Occupational Therapist Salary
Entry-Level Occupational Therapist
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $70,000 per year
- Entry-level occupational therapists typically have 0-2 years of experience and need to hold a master’s degree in occupational therapy from an accredited institution. They are typically responsible for assessment, treatment planning, and therapeutic intervention in client’s homes, schools, or clinics.
Mid-Level Occupational Therapist
- Median Salary: $70,000 – $85,000 per year
- Mid-level occupational therapists generally have 2-5 years of experience. In addition to patient care, they may have additional responsibilities such as training new therapists or supervising occupational therapy assistants.
Senior Occupational Therapist
- Median Salary: $85,000 – $100,000 per year
- Senior therapists typically have 5+ years of experience and often take on leadership roles within their organizations. They play a key role in advanced patient care, staff mentoring, and administrative tasks.
Occupational Therapy Supervisor / Manager
- Median Salary: $90,000 – $110,000+ per year
- This role typically involves overseeing the work of a team of occupational therapists, ensuring the quality of care, budgeting, and strategic planning. It requires significant experience and management skills.
Director of Occupational Therapy
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $130,000+ per year
- This high-level position requires extensive experience in occupational therapy and strong leadership skills. The role involves setting strategies for the occupational therapy department, managing a team of therapists, and ensuring the highest standards of patient care.
Occupational Therapist Work Environment
Occupational therapists often work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, clients’ homes, and occupational therapy offices.
Their work often involves physical activity such as helping patients perform exercises and they may also spend time at desks or tables, documenting patients’ progress.
The work schedule for occupational therapists is typically full time, and they may work weekends or evenings to accommodate the schedules of their patients.
With experience and further specialization, occupational therapists can move into management roles, research positions, or they might choose to open their own private practice.
The job requires patience, compassion, and excellent communication skills, as therapists need to be able to explain treatment programs and motivate their patients to reach their goals.
FAQs About Becoming an Occupational Therapist
What is needed to become an occupational therapist?
To become an occupational therapist, you need to obtain a master’s degree in occupational therapy from an accredited program.
Some universities also offer doctoral degrees.
Before this, you will need a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a related field like psychology, biology, or health science.
You also need to complete fieldwork requirements, which provide practical experience.
Once education is completed, you must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam.
In addition, soft skills such as empathy, patience, flexibility, and excellent communication are crucial for this role.
How long does it take to be an occupational therapist?
Becoming an occupational therapist typically takes at least six to seven years of higher education.
This includes four years for a bachelor’s degree and an additional two to three years for a master’s degree.
After this, you need to complete the required fieldwork, which can take several months.
Following successful completion of education and fieldwork, you must then pass the NBCOT exam.
The total time can vary depending on the individual’s pace and the specific requirements of their education program.
Can I be an occupational therapist without a master’s degree?
No, a master’s degree is a minimum requirement to practice as an occupational therapist.
This is due to the complex nature of the role, which requires a deep understanding of human development, anatomy, therapeutic techniques, and more.
This knowledge is typically obtained through graduate-level study.
However, if you are interested in the field but do not wish to pursue a master’s degree, consider becoming an occupational therapy assistant, which requires an associate degree.
Is occupational therapy a stressful job?
Like any healthcare profession, occupational therapy can be stressful at times due to high patient loads, emotional demands, and administrative tasks.
However, many occupational therapists find the job fulfilling and rewarding, as they can make a significant difference in their patients’ lives by helping them regain or improve their daily living and working abilities.
Stress levels can also be managed with proper self-care, work-life balance, and efficient time management.
What are the prospects for occupational therapists in the next decade?
The job outlook for occupational therapists is very positive.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of occupational therapists is projected to grow 16% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
This growth is driven by the increasing needs of the aging baby-boom population, rising incidences of chronic conditions, and medical advancements that allow patients to survive severe conditions and require therapy for their recovery.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Embarking on the journey to become an occupational therapist is no small endeavor, but it’s certainly fulfilling.
Equipped with the right skills, education, and perseverance, you’re well on your way to making a profound impact on people’s lives.
Remember, the path may be demanding, but the rewards are boundless. Your interventions could significantly improve the quality of life for many individuals, changing the way they live, work, and interact with the world around them.
So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in learning. Connect with professionals in the field. And most importantly, never stop helping people.
Because the world needs your skills and compassion.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in occupational therapy, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to offer tailored advice and resources to effectively navigate your career path.
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