For Kathy, occupational therapy was the answer to a simple but powerful question: How can I help people live their best quality of life?
Her education and career journey shows not only how to become an occupational therapist but also how the profession transforms lives every day.
Starting With the Right Undergraduate Foundation
Before becoming an occupational therapist, Kathy studied exercise science and psychology — a combination she described as "a one-two punch" that prepared her for graduate study.
Many future occupational therapists choose similar undergraduate majors in biology, kinesiology or health care sciences.
Her transition to graduate school was seamless. Kathy enrolled directly in a master's program right after completing her bachelor's degree, a path not every student experiences but one she found rewarding.
Occupational Therapy Education and Advanced Training
In graduate school, Kathy appreciated the occupation-based approach of her program and the strong faculty support she received.
Later, she expanded her expertise through certifications and a fellowship program with Evidence In Motion, which offered flexible hybrid learning.
"I really enjoy that I can do a lot of education on my time, but still have real-time support from faculty and a cohort," she said. Hybrid formats gave her the chance to keep working, raise a family and pursue advanced training simultaneously.
Life as an Occupational Therapist
Throughout her career, Kathy has worked with clients in pain management and rehabilitation.
One of her most profound experiences came when patients shared that they were considering suicide — and later told her that occupational therapy had given them hope.
Through occupational therapy, she helped clients rebuild life skills and improve their physical, emotional and mental well-being. "That is everything," Kathy said. "And I wouldn't be able to do it without the training I received."
Why Choose Occupational Therapy?
Kathy believes occupational therapy is one of the most holistic health care professions. "I think everyone deserves the best quality of life possible, and occupational therapy is a profession that gives you those skills," she explained.
With its focus on mind-body-spirit wellness, occupational therapy prepares clinicians to work in diverse settings — from inpatient rehabilitation to outpatient clinics, pediatrics or community-based health care.
FAQs
What undergraduate degrees help with becoming an occupational therapist?
Kathy studied exercise science with a psychology minor. Other future occupational therapists often major in biology, kinesiology or health care sciences to prepare for graduate study.
Can you transition directly from a bachelor's to a master's in occupational therapy?
Yes. Kathy moved straight into her master's program after undergraduate school, which shortened her path to practice. Some programs offer this type of streamlined entry.
What certifications can occupational therapists earn after graduate school?
Kathy advanced her career with certifications and a fellowship through Evidence In Motion, focusing on pain management. Many occupational therapists pursue specialties in pediatrics, hand therapy or geriatrics.
What kinds of patient outcomes can occupational therapists influence?
Kathy has helped clients in chronic pain regain hope, independence and daily function. Her story shows how occupational therapists impact both physical and mental well-being.