For Megan Doyle, occupational therapy is more than a career — it's a calling. Over 12 years in practice, Doyle has worked across diverse care settings, from acute and inpatient rehab to outpatient neurological and orthopedic clinics.
Today, she's not only a practicing clinician but also a faculty member and mentor to future occupational therapists.
Her journey illustrates what occupational therapy is, why the field is growing and how aspiring students can prepare for this rewarding profession.
Why Occupational Therapy?
Doyle was drawn to the field by its holistic focus.
"It is truly the holism that has drawn me to the profession," she explained. "Our roots are in mental and behavioral health, emphasizing that mind-body-spirit connection. Occupational therapy embodies person-centered care, and there's nothing else like it."
Unlike narrowly defined health care roles, occupational therapy offers flexibility. Occupational therapists can work in rehabilitation, pediatrics, mental health, industrial settings or pain management.
"I joke that we were the original life coaches before that became a thing," Doyle said.
From Student to Specialist
Doyle's path began with a bachelor's degree in exercise science and psychology, a strong foundation for graduate-level occupational therapy education.
She transitioned seamlessly into a master's program, where the emphasis on occupation-based practice confirmed her passion.
Her learning didn't stop there. She pursued specialized training, including a Therapeutic Pain Specialist certification and the Fellowship in Pain Sciences, both through Evidence In Motion.
The hybrid format of these programs allowed her to balance full-time work, motherhood and athletics with advanced study.
"I really enjoyed that I could complete education on my time while still having real-time support from faculty and being part of a cohort," she said.
Life as an Occupational Therapist
Now based in Boise, Idaho, Doyle manages an outpatient chronic pain rehab program for a large nonprofit health system while continuing direct patient care.
Her practice emphasizes both treatment and prevention, empowering clients to live healthier, more functional lives.
Some of her most meaningful moments have come from working with patients facing severe chronic pain. "Several of my clients have told me they were considering suicide," she shared.
"When they say I've given them hope and helped them find a path forward — that is everything. And I wouldn't be able to do that without the training I received."
Advice for Future OTD Students
For prospective students wondering what occupational therapy does and whether the profession is the right fit, Doyle recommends starting with personal reflection.
"Really reflect on your why," she said. "My why was believing everyone deserves the best quality of life possible, and occupational therapy equips us with the skills to help make that happen."
Her story highlights not only how long it takes to become an occupational therapist, but also the lifelong growth opportunities the profession provides — from clinical practice to advanced fellowships and teaching roles.
Why OT Education Matters
Occupational therapy is a fast-growing field, with opportunities across settings and populations. Whether you're a recent graduate, a career changer, or an occupational therapy assistant looking to advance, education is the foundation.
As Doyle's experience shows, today's programs offer flexibility through hybrid and online learning, preparing students for a profession that's as adaptable as it is impactful.
FAQs
What undergraduate degree is best for occupational therapy?
Many students, like Megan Doyle, major in exercise science or psychology before graduate school. Common majors include biology, kinesiology and health sciences.
How do you transition from undergraduate to occupational therapy school?
Some programs allow a direct path into a master's or doctoral degree after completing a bachelor's, as Megan experienced. Others may require prerequisites or work experience.
Can you specialize as an occupational therapist?
Yes. Megan pursued advanced training in pain sciences and geriatric care through certifications and fellowships. Occupational therapists can specialize in pediatrics, hand therapy, mental health and more.
What is hybrid occupational therapy education?
Hybrid programs blend online coursework with in-person labs and clinical experiences. Megan highlighted how these formats support working professionals and parents.
Why do students choose occupational therapy?
Megan was drawn to the holistic, person-centered focus of occupational therapy. Many students value its flexibility to work across settings — from hospitals to schools to outpatient rehabilitation.
