An occupational therapist treats people who have difficulty with activities of daily living. They work with people who have physical disabilities, mental health issues, or injuries. OTs assist their patients in improving their physical abilities, independence, and quality of life. OT may help people who have difficulty with activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, cooking, and working. An OT also works with people who have trouble with coordination, strength, endurance, and balance.
An occupational therapist can work in several environments, including hospitals, schools, clinics, and private practice. There are also travel occupational therapist jobs. Travel OTs take assignments away from their current location and may work in many roles and settings. Healthcare travelers play an integral role in the global healthcare community. They ensure that quality medical care is accessible all over the country and play a meaningful part in addressing shortages. As a travel therapist, you also have the opportunity to see new places and develop new skills.
If you’re considering a career in occupational therapy, you should know that occupational therapists make above-average salaries and have excellent job security. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for occupational therapists was $85,570 in September 2022. The field is projected to grow by 14 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increasing number of people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and injuries who require rehabilitative services.
How do you become an occupational therapist?
To become an occupational therapist, you will first need to complete a degree program. The majority of programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), so look for this accreditation when researching schools. Coursework will cover topics such as human anatomy, physiology, psychology, and therapeutic techniques. In order to practice as an OT, you must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam. This exam covers everything from ethics and professional conduct to assessment and treatment methods. Once you have passed the NBCOT exam, you will be able to apply for licensure in your state.
When applying for a degree program, you should keep in mind that college admissions have never been more competitive than they are right now. In order to be considered for admission, students must have a strong academic record, demonstrated leadership skills, and involvement in extracurricular activities. In addition, students must submit a well-written essay and letters of recommendation. The selection process is based on several factors, including academic achievement, standardized test scores, essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities. Admissions officers are looking for well-rounded students who are leaders in their community and have a passion for learning.
If you are looking for a way to help people recover from illness or injury, and you enjoy traveling, then a career as an occupational therapist may be the perfect fit for you. OTs treat patients who have physical, cognitive, or emotional impairments so they can regain skills needed for everyday tasks.
In addition to working with patients directly, OTs often educate family members and caregivers about how they can assist the patient in completing everyday tasks. You will have to complete a degree program, then obtain accreditation and licensure, but the hard work is worth it. Being an OT allows you to earn a good living while doing something important and deeply fulfilling. Follow the advice in this article and you’ll be on your way to a career in occupational therapy.