What is Occupational therapy? US Legal Definitions describes it as “a type of rehabilitation therapy that uses real life activities in specific areas and with specific goals, to help patients of all ages prevent, lessen or overcome physical disabilities. Occupational therapy helps patients maximize their functional capabilities at home, at work and at play.” Occupational therapy is a career that is continuing to grow. According to the United States Department of Labor, employment is growing faster than average and should continue so. As the “baby boomer” generation ages, there will be a definite climb in the need for OT services. The Journal of Gerontology (2001) reveals that occupational therapists can help seniors with their independent lifestyles by developing a routine of daily activities that is planned especially for the individual.
Occupational therapy is a rewarding and well paid field with room for advancement. You can go into a specialized area, or work in the administrative sector. The average annual wage in 2008 was about $66,000. Becoming a licensed occupational therapist requires a master’s degree or higher. The school or program must be accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). Most schools have full time programs, but many are trying to work around your schedule and offering part-time and weekend programs. Perhaps you are interested in such a field, but not the required amount of schooling. The Occupational Therapist Assistant may be a better fit. An OTA usually requires an associates degree (about 2 years). This field will continue to grow as long as the OT profession is growing. The difference between the OT and OTA is the OT will prescribe the treatments necessary for the client, while the OT assists in carrying out the treatments. The OTA may also record the client’s progress, set up needed equipment, restock and order needed supplies, and give the client some needed encouragement. There is also room for advancement.
Most community colleges offer OTA programs, as well as online classes. Like the OT’s education, the OTA’s program or school must also be accredited by the ACOTE. While the OT must have 24 weeks of supervised fieldwork, the OTA will learn most of what they need training on the job. Here too, there is room for advancement. In 2008 the the median annual wage was in the upper $40,000 range. Occupational therapist or occupational therapist’s assistant; both are well-paying and rewarding careers.
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