Occupational therapy is the only profession that helps people across the lifespan to do the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of daily activities (occupations). Occupational therapy practitioners enable people of all ages to live life to its fullest by helping them promote health, and prevent—or live better with—injury, illness, or disability.
Common occupational therapy interventions include helping children with disabilities to participate fully in school and social situations, helping people recovering from injury to regain skills, and providing supports for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes. Occupational therapy is skilled treatment that helps individuals achieve independence in all facets of their lives. It gives people the "skills for the job of living" necessary for independent and satisfying lives. Services typically include:
- Customized treatment programs to improve one's health and ability to engage in meaningful daily activities
- Comprehensive home and job site evaluations with adaptation recommendations
- Performance skills assessments and treatment
- Adaptive equipment recommendations and usage training
- Patient and family education
"Occupational therapy practitioners are skilled professionals whose education includes the study of human growth and development with specific emphasis on the social, emotional, and physiological effects of illness and injury."
An occupational therapist enters the profession with a master's degree. Applicants must complete prerequisites prior to admission to the program, as well as to meet the program admission requirements. Students must complete supervised clinical internships in a variety of healthcare settings and pass a national examination. Most states also regulate occupational therapy practice.
Occupational therapists may be employed in a variety of settings including school systems, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, behavioral health clinics, pediatric practices, and community- based organizations.
Occupational therapists may also be self-employed in private practice. These practitioners see clients for a variety of conditions and services including coaching, telehealth, and consulting.
Occupational therapists need patience and strong interpersonal skills to inspire trust and respect in their clients. Ingenuity and imagination in adapting activities to individual needs are assets. Those working within the community must be able to adapt to a variety of settings and have strong leadership skills and innovation.
U.S. News & World Report says OT is No. 17 on the Best Health Care Jobs list. The profile article on OT features AOTA member Samia Rafeedie.