Occupational therapy is a profession that helps people regain independence in everyday life, from self-care to work to recreation. For Gabrielle "Gabby" Brant, the path into OT was shaped by both professional experiences and a desire to help others thrive.
Today, as a pelvic health occupational therapist at Lone Peak Physical Therapy in Billings, Mont., she provides care in one of the field's most specialized and often misunderstood areas.
A Day in the Life of a Pelvic Health OT
Just months into her first job after graduation, Brant treats about 10 patients each day. Her caseload includes women recovering from childbirth, individuals experiencing menopause-related symptoms, and patients managing chronic pelvic pain or incontinence.
She prepares her treatment sessions in advance, documents progress carefully and works with each patient to set meaningful goals.
"The pelvic floor is a very vulnerable part of the body," Brant said. "It typically holds a lot of trauma and emotion for people. I like to really educate and spread light on the mind-body connection and how that influences physical symptoms."
While her current certification allows her to focus primarily on women's health, she is already pursuing additional training to expand into men's pelvic health.
How Gabby Discovered Occupational Therapy
Brant's first introduction to occupational therapy came while she was working as a preschool teacher. She watched an OT support one of her students with autism and was intrigued by how the profession blended creativity, problem-solving and goal setting.
That experience opened her eyes to the wide-ranging impact occupational therapists can have across different settings.
Education Path: How She Became an Occupational Therapist
Brant decided to pursue a doctorate in occupational therapy, or OTD, recognizing the profession's shift toward doctoral-level training.
Her program combined coursework, lab training and clinical fieldwork, preparing her for direct patient care. Like all OTs, she completed her degree and then passed the national board exam to become licensed.
"After graduation, I went straight into studying for my boards," Brant said. "It was stressful, but it set me up to start my career right away."
Transitioning From Graduate School to Clinical Practice
Brant acknowledges that the transition from student to practitioner was both exciting and overwhelming. After passing her boards, she jumped directly into her first job at Lone Peak Physical Therapy.
Her clinic eased her in by giving her opportunities to observe and practice before managing a full caseload. Even with support, the steep learning curve was real.
"Looking back, I wish I had taken a short break after the exam," Brant said. "It would have given me a mental health reset before starting a brand-new role. But I've already learned so much in these first months."
Why Gabby Loves Occupational Therapy
What Brant values most about OT is the chance to see patients reclaim their lives. She describes moments where patients who once struggled with pain or loss of function were able to return to hobbies, work and family activities.
"That's what makes me thrive as a therapist — being along for the ride in their journey and seeing them get their life back," she said.
For her, the flexibility of the profession is equally important. "With one OT license, I can work in mental health, pediatrics, rehabilitation or pelvic health. There's so much variety that it never feels boring," she said.
Advice From Gabby for Future OTs
Brant encourages those considering OT to think beyond the physical aspects of the profession. "Even in outpatient therapy, patients may process emotions during treatment," she said. "You need to be comfortable with people experiencing emotions in front of you and being that support person."
She also wants to clear up a common misconception: occupational therapists do not just help people find jobs. Instead, they help individuals return to independence in daily life — whether that means driving, caring for a child, cooking or managing a health condition.
"Most people don't know what occupational therapy is, but once they do, they realize how broad and impactful it can be," Brant said.
FAQ: Becoming and Working as a Pelvic Health Occupational Therapist
What does an occupational therapist do?
Occupational therapists help people regain independence in daily life. This can include self-care, work tasks, mobility or hobbies. Gabby works in pelvic health, a specialty where OTs address pain, postpartum recovery and other pelvic floor concerns.
How do you become an occupational therapist?
To become an OT, you need a graduate-level degree — either a master's or doctorate in occupational therapy — plus national board certification and state licensure. Gabby chose the OTD path at Rocky Mountain College to prepare for a career in pelvic health.
What is pelvic health occupational therapy?
Pelvic health OTs treat conditions such as chronic pelvic pain, incontinence, postpartum recovery and menopause-related symptoms. The specialty combines physical rehabilitation with education and emotional support. Gabby treats about 10 patients a day in this area.
Is occupational therapy a good career choice?
Yes. OT offers flexibility across many settings — pediatrics, rehabilitation, mental health, hand therapy and pelvic health. For Gabby, the most rewarding part is seeing patients return to meaningful daily activities and regain their quality of life.
What advice do occupational therapists give to students considering the field?
Gabby encourages students to prepare for the emotional side of OT. Patients often share personal experiences during care, so therapists need to be comfortable supporting both physical and emotional needs.
