What is an Occupational therapist?
An occupational therapist (OT) is a healthcare professional who supports people of all ages in gaining, regaining, or enhancing the abilities needed for everyday tasks and work-related activities. They assist individuals dealing with illness, disability, or recovery from medical conditions like surgeries or strokes. OTs modify environments and activities to help individuals function more independently and improve their overall quality of life.
What do they do?
As an occupational therapist, your daily work includes:
- Reviewing a patient’s medical history and assessing their needs
- Helping patients regain independence in daily tasks like dressing, cooking, or driving
- Recommending and training patients to use assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, ramps, adaptive tools)
- Adapting the home, school, or work environment to support the patient
- Teaching exercises or techniques to improve movement and function
- Creating personalized treatment plans with clear goals
- Working with other professionals like doctors, therapists, teachers, or caregivers
- Educating family members and support staff
- Monitoring the patient’s progress and updating the care plan as needed
Occupational therapist salaries
- Public-employed roles $62,000-$105,000 annually
- Private practices $95,000-$135,000 annually
How?
- Bachelor’s Degree in BSc Kinesiology – Take required courses through secondary school
- Apply to master’s program in occupational therapy (MScOT)
- Complete program – 2 years
- Pass licensing exams
- Start practicing as a licensed occupational therapist
References
