Occupational therapy is a holistic, client-centered health care profession that uses meaningful activities or "occupations" as an intervention to help improve independence and quality of life.
It offers a meaningful career path for those seeking a sense of purpose, a strong job outlook, and opportunities for professional growth now and in the future.
In this article, we’ll look at six compelling reasons why more people are choosing occupational therapy as their career path.
1. It’s a Career That Makes a Difference
Occupational therapy (OT) is about helping people live independently and with a high quality of life. Occupational therapy aims to develop and improve the skills necessary to live independently.
OT can help people adapt their activities and environments to better cope with physical, cognitive, and psychological limitations and manage chronic conditions. Occupational therapists help clients achieve goals through participation in occupations and activities.
Many health care fields emphasize treating illness or seeing a diagnosis instead of the whole person. Occupational therapy emphasizes a holistic approach, which considers all aspects of a person's health and well-being and views every person as unique.
Occupational therapy goals are client-driven, focusing on clients' wants and needs and progressing at a pace that is comfortable for the client.
In many settings, occupational therapists spend significant time with their clients and find the therapeutic relationship one of the more rewarding aspects of an occupational therapy career.
2. Career Flexibility and Diverse Work Settings
One of occupational therapy's greatest strengths is its ability to work in various settings and transition to new settings and specialties.
Occupational therapists work in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, home health agencies, skilled nursing facilities, mental health facilities, community-based programs, and schools, to name just a few.
The number of work settings available to OTs means there is a lot of career flexibility and opportunity to pivot to new settings for professional growth.
3. Lifelong Learning and Specialization
Occupational therapy is a career field with abundant opportunities for growth and specialization. Specializing in a practice area opens doors to leadership positions, research and teaching opportunities, and advanced practice positions.
Occupational therapists can obtain advanced training, certification, or micro-credentials for various specialties, including:
- Pediatrics: Pediatric occupational therapists help children of all ages with everyday activities such as playing and learning.
- Hand Therapy: OTs specializing in hand therapy evaluate and treat injuries of the shoulder, arm, elbow, wrist, and hand.
- Gerontology: OTs in gerontology help older adults improve their quality of life in their homes and clinical settings.
- Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT): Neuro-developmental treatment OTs use an interdisciplinary approach to treat patients who have suffered from stroke, brain injuries, and other neurological conditions.
4. Strong Job Outlook and Earnings Potential
The job outlook for occupational therapists is bright, with an 11% expected employment growth from 2023 to 2033.
It's worth noting that occupational therapy has a long history of helping people do what they want and need to do. Over time, the profession has demonstrated strong resiliency and has adapted to changing policies, reimbursement models, societal expectations, and evolving client needs.
Occupational therapists embrace emerging technology and service delivery trends, such as assistive technology and telehealth. Occupational therapy is a dynamic and creative field responsive to changing needs.
5. Lifestyle Benefits and Work-Life Balance
For many, occupational therapy is a career choice that offers a good work-life balance. Along with variable work settings, there are also opportunities for flexible schedules.
Occupational therapists work full-time, part-time, per diem (as needed), and contract positions. Traveling therapist positions offer a chance to work throughout the United States and other countries.
6. Educational and Professional Pathways
To practice as an occupational therapist, you must complete a graduate degree (master's or doctorate) from an accredited program and pass the national certification exam offered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Investing in an education in occupational therapy rewards you with a career that offers long-term fulfillment, competitive compensation, and room for professional growth.
Is Occupational Therapy Right for You
Occupational therapy may be a good fi\t if you value problem-solving, creativity, human connection, and embracing change and innovation.
OT is a field with a bright future outlook, career flexibility, advancement opportunities, and the chance to make a lasting difference in people's lives.
Whether you're just starting your professional journey or reimagining your path, occupational therapy offers more than a job. OT provides a calling.
