Occupational therapy job description: The responsibilities
An occupational therapist, you will be responsible for helping patients with limited abilities to improve their motor skills and enhance their ability to complete their daily functions without assistance. Occupational therapists work one on one with patients who suffer from disabilities from birth or due to an accident. They are responsible for studying the patient's condition, the extent of disability, individual needs and mental condition before devising a treatment strategy, which is aimed at helping patients to improve their quality of life and give them a sense of independence.
Occupational therapists will generally work out of nursing care facilities, private clinics, or hospitals. Because the treatment interventions often include physically helping the patient to move, occupational therapy employment can be demanding and candidates interested in these careers should be in good physical shape.
Different types of occupational therapy jobs
Occupational Therapists: These professionals are often in the supervisory role, working with the patients and proposing treatment options based on the patient's specific needs. The occupational therapist is directly responsible for not only formulating a treatment plan but also changing it to suit the patient based on the extent of improvement.
Occupational therapy assistant jobs: Professionals interested in occupational therapy assistant jobs will be responsible for helping the occupational therapist to administer the remedial initiatives including assisting the patient in performing the various exercises.
Occupational therapy aide: An aide is expected to primarily help with the operation of equipment needed in occupational therapy. From time to time, they are also expected to take care of administrative work and help in administering treatment under the supervisions of the occupational therapists.
Occupational therapy job description: The qualifications
People interested in occupational therapy positions should prepare early on by taking classes in anatomy, psychology, physics, human development, and anthropology at the high school level.
While occupational therapy aides can make do with a high school certificate, for the job of an OT assistant, you will need to have a two-year associate's degree in occupational therapy, followed by a certification exam.
To become a registered occupational therapist, you will need a four-year bachelor's degree in occupational therapy. After graduation, a candidate will also be expected to pass the exam conducted by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Any part time experience in a local hospital assisting an occupational therapist while you work on your graduate degree will enhance your chances of securing a job in the field.
In order to work as an OT assistant in the future, you will need to study math and science at the high school level. This will be followed by an associate's degree in a licensing exam which will certify you to practice as an occupational therapy assistant.
Tips on getting occupational therapy jobs
People interested in occupational therapy employment should check with local hospitals and clinics for employment prospects. Candidates who have a bachelor's degree may want to consider furthering their education with a master's or even a doctorate degree. This will add value to their private practice if they intend to open one in the future.
If you are looking for OT assistant or aide jobs, you may want to procure a list of all the registered occupational therapists in your area from local hospitals. Get in touch with a few, inquiring about possible assistant opening in their clinic. A good resume will play a vital role in helping you get a job. So, ensure that you list all your practical experience along with any internship and educational qualifications on your resume.
Occupational therapy jobs offer the satisfaction of helping to alleviate the suffering of disabled and physically challenged patients. Occupational therapists are routinely among the highest paid professionals in the medical field and even if you are interested in occupational therapy assistant jobs, you can count on employment security and impressive remuneration. If an occupational therapy job description appeals to you and you would like a job in the field, visit OccupationalTherapyCrossing.com. The website offers a myriad of listings in occupational therapy. Sign up for FREE today to enhance your chances of securing a job in the sector.
