Emily Damon didn't set out to become an occupational therapist. After a career setback, she discovered a new path in occupational therapy — first as an assistant, then as a licensed therapist.
Her journey illustrates how someone can become an occupational therapist, the education pathways available and why the profession is a strong fit for career changers.
A Career Change Into Occupational Therapy
"I was laid off from a previous job and qualified for the Washington State Worker Retraining Program," Damon said. "They required us to choose an in-demand career, so I started researching my options."
A natural problem-solver, Damon explored radiology, ultrasound, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. A friend who worked as an occupational therapy assistant (OTA) encouraged her to consider the profession. Damon enrolled in an OTA program and spent five years specializing in hand therapy.
Bridging From Assistant to Occupational Therapist
With encouragement from a supervisor, Damon began researching bridge programs that allowed OTAs to pursue full licensure as occupational therapists.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, she enrolled in a hybrid master's-level program on the East Coast while raising three children at home.
"I needed a program that was affordable and didn't require me to fly across the country every weekend," Damon said. "I even researched flights, hotels, and car rentals. In the end, it came down to what was sustainable for me and my family."
Her program combined online coursework with periodic in-person weekends and clinical rotations. For those wondering how long it takes to become an occupational therapist, Damon explained that most master's programs take about two to three years, while doctoral programs may take longer.
Bridge programs can offer additional flexibility for working OTAs.
Life as a Licensed Occupational Therapist
Today, Damon is a licensed occupational therapist at RET Physical Therapy in Bellevue, Washington, specializing in hand and upper extremity rehabilitation.
She treats patients one-on-one, from those recovering from traumatic injuries to individuals managing arthritis or overuse conditions. She also creates custom splints tailored to each patient's needs.
"What I love most are the patients," Damon said. "One woman couldn't grip more than 10 pounds with her left hand, but by the end of one session she was up to 30. The week before, she dropped a coffee cup and today she walked in holding one. Moments like that are the best part of my job."
Why Occupational Therapy Offers Flexibility
For Damon, occupational therapy is more than a profession — it's a platform for adaptability, creativity and impact.
"With one OT license, I can work in mental health care, pediatrics, rehabilitation or even corrections," she said. "If I couldn't do hand therapy tomorrow, I could still pivot and use my skills in another setting."
That flexibility, she believes, makes OT an ideal field for those seeking both purpose and variety. "Most people don't know what occupational therapy is, but once they do, they realize how broad and impactful it can be," Damon said.