What type of job duties does an Occupational Therapist have?
Occupational therapists help people with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities lead independent and productive lives by helping them develop, recover, and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. Job duties for an occupational therapist may include: • Developing treatment plans based on the patient's needs • Assessing the patient's condition • Administering therapy treatments • Teaching patients how to use adaptive equipment • Instructing family members on how to care for the patient • Evaluating patient progress • Developing home exercise programs • Making recommendations for changes in the patient's environment to improve function
Other Questions about Occupational Therapist
- What is an Occupational Therapist?
An Occupational Therapist is a health care professional who helps people with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities to live as independently as possible. Occupational Therapists help people develop, recover, and maintain the skills needed for everyday life, such as self-care, work, and leisure activities. They also help people adjust to physical and emotional changes in their lives, such as a disability or an illness.
- How do I become an Occupational Therapist?
To become an Occupational Therapist, you must first earn a bachelor's degree in a related field such as psychology, sociology, or health science. After completing an undergraduate degree, you can then apply to an accredited master's degree program in Occupational Therapy. The master's program typically includes clinical experience, and upon graduation, you must pass a certification exam to become a licensed Occupational Therapist.
- What qualifications do I need to become an Occupational Therapist?
In order to become an Occupational Therapist, you must obtain a Bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy and then complete a Master's degree in Occupational Therapy or a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree. Depending on the state you live in, you may also need to pass a certification exam to become a licensed Occupational Therapist.
- What type of educational background do I need to become an Occupational Therapist?
To become an Occupational Therapist, you need to have a minimum of a Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program. You may also need to complete fieldwork and receive certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Additionally, you will need to obtain a state license in order to practice occupational therapy.
- How long does it take to become an Occupational Therapist?
It typically takes a minimum of six years to become an Occupational Therapist. This includes a minimum of a four-year Bachelor's degree program from an accredited university, followed by a two-year Master's degree program.