CAREER SNAPSHOT
Summary
Occupational therapists help patients learn, develop, recover, improve, as well as maintain the skills needed for daily living.
Career Level
Similar Jobs
Consider these careers as well:
- Recreational Therapist
- Physical Therapist
- Speech Pathologist
Salary
National average, per year
$83,200
JOB OPENINGS
Current national estimate
16,126
DEMAND OUTLOOK
Actual salaries can vary substantially based on region, job description and employer expectations; does not include additional compensation. Data source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statisticcs.
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: May 2019
OVERVIEW
Occupational Therapist
A career in occupational therapy is an excellent way to make a positive difference in a patient’s life. Occupational therapists treat patient’s mental and physical health. They help patients develop, regain and maintain their independence. The impact they make in a patient’s life may last a lifetime.
Occupational therapists enjoy the benefits of an excellent salary, great career outlook in a growing healthcare field and a variety of patient settings and populations to work with.
Occupational Therapist Job Responsibilities
Occupational therapists may perform the following job duties. Actual duties may vary by job and location.
- Evaluate patients and determine their needs
- Develop individual patient treatment plans and set goals
- Assist patients in performing tasks related to daily living
- Determine special equipment or accommodations that a patient may need
- Educate patients and their family members
- Prepare patients for return to work if applicable
- Evaluate patient progress
- Help patients develop or regain their independence
Occupational Therapist Salary
The actual salary of the occupational therapist can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Most recent data shown.
National average per year: $83,200*
National average per hour: $40.00*
- $93,558 per year, $44.98 per hour**
- $80,059 per year, $38.49 per hour***
- $78,927 to $93,876 per year****
- $80,782 per year, $38.84 per hour*****
* Bureau of Labor Statics
** Indeed.com
*** Payscale.com
**** Salary.com
***** Glassdoor.com
Occupational Therapist Career Pros and Cons
What are the ups and downs of being an occupational therapist? Here are a few items to keep in mind.
Pros
- Job stability
- Good salary
- Variety of job settings
- Variety of patient populations to work with
- Opportunity to develop valuable relationships with patients
- Opportunity to make a positive difference in someone’s life
Cons
- Can be physically demanding
- Can be emotionally challenging
- Extensive education needed
- Risk of exposure to infectious diseases
- May have to work evenings, weekends or holidays
CAREER PATH AND TRAINING
How Do I Become an Occupational Therapist?
If you are considering a career as an occupational therapist, here are the steps you will need to complete.
- Earn your high school diploma.
- Earn a master’s degree in occupational therapy. This typically takes 5-6 years of undergraduate and graduate study to complete.
- Become licensed by passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam.
- Obtain CPR/BLS certification through the American Heart Association.
Suggested Career Path
The position of the occupational therapist is at the end of the medical career pathway and can be preceded by entry-level or mid-level jobs. A sample career path could look like this:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) > Physical Therapy Assistant > Occupational Therapist
Typical Minimum Education
Actual requirements may vary by state. Please check with your state government.
- High school diploma
- Master’s degree in occupational therapy
- CPR/BLS certification
Typical Work Experience Required
Typically obtained through the occupational therapy program.
Typical Skills Required
Common skills listed. Actual skills required may vary by location.
- Social perceptiveness
- Service orientation
- Empathy and compassion
- Kindness and compassion
- Positive personality
- Strong desire to help others
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Creativity
- Excellent communication skills
- Patience
Occupational Therapist Certifications
Occupational therapists must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam in order to obtain their license and become registered in their state.
- OTR, Occupational Therapist Registered (NBCOT)
CPR certification is required:
- BLS, Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (AHA)
Occupational Therapist Licenses
All states require occupational therapists to be licensed. Licensure is obtained by passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam. Continuing education requirements must be met in order to maintain licensure.
Occupational Therapist Training and Preparation
Once you have earned your master’s degree, it is time to take the certification exam through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Passing this exam is a requirement for obtaining your state license.
Preparing for the exam can be done in many ways. Online practice tests are a great way to help you prepare and stay organized. Flashcards and exam prep books are other useful tools. There are a variety of choices available online or in your local bookstore. The NBCOT website has study guides, practice questions and other useful information to get you prepared for test day. A little self-confidence and some strategic studying and preparation can help ensure your success.
CPR certification is required. The American Heart Association offers Basic Life Support (BLS) certification for healthcare providers. They offer online courses, blended courses and traditional classroom setting training.
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