Occupational therapists (OTs) possess a distinct role in providing support to patients with a variety of different disabilities, such as injuries, physical conditions, and illnesses. They are equipped with the skills to provide hands-on care to patients in many different settings.
This particular career field is an excellent choice for individuals who have skills in adaptability, compassion, and patience. Additionally, the field is projected to grow 14 percent by the year 2031.
If interested in pursuing such a career, Best Accredited Colleges describes the responsibilities that OTs have in healthcare and explains the steps needed to become a licensed occupational therapist.
What Is An Occupational Therapist?
An occupational therapist (OT) has a unique role in the healthcare industry as they are primarily responsible for providing support to patients with injuries, disabilities, or pain when performing daily tasks.
They'll support them as they make changes in their everyday lives to function better without any pain or discomfort. They are employed in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, and home health services.
Although they are very similar to physical therapists, OTs have a distinct role in improving functions associated with pain through the use of equipment or teaching.
What Are The Job Responsibilities?
Occupational therapists (OTs) come into contact with a variety of patients, such as patients impacted by mental illnesses or physical conditions, such as a stroke. OTs can even work with young children in the process of managing certain tasks or behaviors.
Although the day–to–day duties can alter depending on patient type, there are general responsibilities that occupational therapists can perform.
General responsibilities include:
- evaluate patient's conditions via medical history and consultations
- develop and implement treatment plans
- help patients relearn and perform daily tasks
- educate and provide guidance to a patient
- recommend necessary equipment for support
- track and record a patient's progress
What Education Is Required To Become An Occupational Therapist?
In order to become an occupational therapist, individuals must pursue a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy degree from an accredited program. The majority of the programs take two to three years to complete.
To gain admission into an occupational therapy degree program, candidates are required to have completed a baccalaureate program. If not, completed coursework in biology, chemistry, and other sciences is typically required.
Some programs require 30 in–person hours of OT–related experience or observation is required.
The educational requirements are expected to change as the Accrediting Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) mandates that by July 1, 2027, a doctorate degree will be required to practice as an entry–level OT.
Due to this mandate, many programs are beginning to shift toward entry–level doctorate programs.
How Much Does An Occupational Therapist Earn?
The median annual wage for OTs was around $85,000 per year in 2021. OTs that are employed in home healthcare services, nursing, and hospital facilities earned close to $100,000 a year.
OTs that work in elementary and secondary schools saw salaries of around $75,000 per year.
Overall, the profession offers a great salary that has the potential to reach six figures, depending on the workplace setting, location, and experience.
What Steps Do I Need To Take To Become One?
The steps to becoming an OT are far more simple than other careers in the healthcare sector. The following list details the steps needed to become a licensed occupational therapist in your state.
1. Complete A Baccalaureate Program
In order to apply for a master's degree in an occupational therapy program, aspiring candidates must have a bachelor's degree, preferably in a health–related field. Additionally, some programs may require a certain number of hours in OT–related experience.
2. Apply To An OT Degree Program
After completing a bachelor's degree program and the necessary in–person hours, candidates are prepared to apply to an occupational therapy program.
Typically, it takes two to three years to complete a master's in occupational therapy program. Part–time students may need more time to complete the program.
By July 1, 2027, students will be expected to complete a doctoral program in order to gain an entry–level occupational therapist position. These programs can be completed in as few as three years.
3. Obtain Licensure and Certification
After completion of a master's or a doctorate degree program, graduates must pass a national certification exam administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
After passing the exam, candidates are then required to fulfill their state's requirements. Some states require background checks, transcripts, and passing a state regulation exam.
Find An Occupational Therapist Program Online Today
The field of occupational therapy is expected to grow at a much faster rate than any other profession. Pursuing this career will automatically grant an individual plenty of job opportunities and security.
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming an occupational therapist, please reach out to Best Accredited Colleges today for a full list of online programs that are available today.
