The transition from student to practitioner is an exciting time when all the coursework is complete and you're ready to jump into your new career. There's also a lot left to do, and it can feel intimidating as you navigate the journey.
This article provides helpful tips for planning and taking these first steps towards becoming an occupational therapy practitioner.
Step One: Get Certified and Licensed After Occupational Therapy School
NBCOT Exam and Certification
After graduating from your occupational therapy program, you must take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam. Passing the NBCOT exam is a requirement to practice as an occupational therapist in the US.
You'll need to apply to take the NBCOT exam and allow time for your school to mail hard-copy transcripts or a degree verification form. Exam applications are valid for three months, so expect to have that amount of time for intensive study once you submit your application. Once your application is approved, you may schedule your exam at a test center that is convenient for you.
Studying for the NBCOT exam can seem daunting, as there is a lot of content covered over various practice areas, and you will have four hours to complete the exam. There are some helpful strategies to lean on when preparing for the exam:
- Manage Anxious Feelings: Learn what works for you to manage anxious thoughts and feelings before, during, and after taking the test. Try meditation, breathing exercises, and other relaxation techniques. Take frequent breaks when studying and schedule time to rest your mind and body. During the exam, practice taking a few deep breaths and take a break halfway through to stretch, use the bathroom, and rehydrate with a drink of water. After the exam, schedule time to do something enjoyable and unrelated to studying to avoid focusing on the results.
- Understand the Exam: Review the exam outline and familiarize yourself with the exam format. Knowledge is power, and knowing about the exam can help you to strategize your study plan and to reduce anxiety about taking the exam.
- Know Your Learning Style: Some people learn better in groups, while others learn best in solitude. Either approach is good if it works to your personal strengths. It can be beneficial to study using various methods, such as flashcards, practice quizzes, and interactive learning platforms, to deepen your understanding of the material and help you retain what you've learned.
Use Study Tools: Workshops, study programs, and practice tests are available to help you prepare for the exam. It's best to invest your time and resources in working with a reputable study program such as NBCOT's study tools, AOTA's exam prep, or another study program recommended and endorsed by your school.
Licensure
Once you've passed the NBCOT exam, you'll need to apply for licensure in the state in which you plan to work. Licensure is different from NBCOT certification.
All 50 states and Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and Guam require occupational therapists to be licensed to provide OT services.
Each state has different requirements for obtaining and maintaining licensure; however, you can typically expect a background check and the submission of transcripts and proof of initial NBCOT certification.
Step Two: Prepare for Your First Occupational Therapy Job Interview
As with preparing for the NBCOT exam, knowledge is power when it comes to interviewing for your first job as a clinician. Coming into the interview with knowledge about the company or organization will help you feel more comfortable sharing how you are a good fit and asking practical questions.
Practice responding to some typical interview questions to help you feel prepared. Network with other students in your program to practice mock interviews together and gain confidence in asking and answering questions.
Be prepared to ask about salary and be open to negotiation. Do some research ahead of time to understand what salary range to expect for the setting and for occupational therapists in the state or community in which you are interviewing.
Keep in mind that experience counts when it comes to salary, and that a new graduate cannot expect a salary comparable to that of a seasoned clinician. You also don't want to agree to a wage that isn't respectful of the highly valuable degree and skills, either. Have a range in mind that is fair to both you and your potential employer.
Step Three: Start Strong in Your First Occupational Therapy Job
Some employers will allow you to start working conditionally before receiving the results of your exam and obtaining licensure. It depends on the laws in your state and your employer's resources to provide you with the necessary supervision and cosigning of documentation.
Plan your day: Know your route to work, consider where you'll eat lunch, and detail where you'll park and enter the building. Allow plenty of time to get to work and report on your first day so you can start as calmly as possible.
Dress and act professionally: Dress for your setting and wear clothing that allows you to move comfortably throughout the day. Most OTs are on their feet and moving throughout the day. Greet new colleagues and wait to ask questions at appropriate times. Respect privacy and time, and demonstrate cultural sensitivity with clients and colleagues.
Celebrate the milestone: Take a moment to honor the start of your first job as a clinician. Think of when you first applied to your OT program and how far you've come to reach this moment. It's an exciting achievement; let yourself recognize and celebrate it.
Graduate to Clinician
Transitioning from an occupational therapy program graduate to an occupational therapy clinician, starting a first professional job is a fantastic milestone in your career.
It's both exciting and daunting, but being prepared and strategically planning can help you move through the transition with greater ease and success.
