If you’re looking for rewarding healthcare fields where you can work one-on-one with clients, you might have heard of occupational therapy (OT). Professionals in this field work directly with clients to improve their quality of life. Aspiring occupational therapists need at least a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) degree to get started — but exactly what is occupational therapy?
What Is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy is a field within healthcare dedicated to helping individuals with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities perform the tasks (or occupations) they need in daily living. OT promotes health and well-being by helping people carry out the activities that matter most to them — from dressing themselves to participating in hobbies.
An occupational therapist, for example, could help a stroke victim regain fine motor skills. They can work with children who have cognitive disabilities to get them integrated with their peers. They could also provide adaptive eating technology to help clients enjoy meals independently.
Occupational Therapists: The Professionals Making It All Possible
At the core of effective OT practice are the occupational therapists who work one-on-one with their clients to identify goals, create personalized plans, and track progress. They are the heart and soul of the profession, providing individualized care every step of the way.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics,1 some of the tasks occupational therapists perform include:
- Evaluating a client’s condition (which can include reviewing their medical histories and observing them perform various tasks)
- Developing treatment plans that align with client goals
- Demonstrating exercises for clients
- Recommending special equipment and providing instructions on how to use it
- Evaluating a client’s home to identify accessibility improvements (such as installing adaptive equipment or even labelling cabinets for clients with memory loss)
- Educating families and friends to ensure the client has the care they need
Overall, occupational therapists provide holistic care that’s always aimed at improving quality of life, independence, and enjoyment.
What Conditions Do Occupational Therapists Treat?
Occupational therapists can treat a wide range of conditions, including physical disabilities, mental illnesses, and cognitive impairments. They can work with individuals of all ages, from young children to older adults, tailoring each plan for the client’s specific goals and needs.
Because occupational therapists can work with such diverse types of clients, some have chosen to specialize in one area, allowing them to match their skills to their passions. For example, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) offers advanced certifications for those who want to specialize in gerontology, pediatrics, and physical rehabilitation.2
Due to the wide range of conditions they treat, OTs can also work in many different settings including hospitals, OT offices, elementary and secondary schools, home healthcare services, and skilled nursing facilities.1
The Occupational Therapy Process
The OT process begins with an evaluation of the individual’s medical history and current abilities. First, occupational therapists assess client needs and goals to set expectations. They then create personalized plans for each client. In addition to therapeutic exercises, this plan might include adaptive equipment, caregiver training, and strategies for performing daily tasks. Finally, they then work with the individual to implement the plan, adapting as needed to help them reach their goals.
Occupational therapy can be accessed through a doctor’s prescription or referral. Individuals can also access OT services through private practice or outpatient clinics. Many insurance plans can help cover the costs of these services.
So, What Are the Benefits of Occupational Therapy?
Depending on a client’s conditions and needs, occupational therapy can deliver a wide range of benefits. Through tailored, evidence-proven strategies, occupational therapy can offer:
- Improved physical and mental health
- Independence in daily activities
- Regained or improved fine motor skills
- Reduced risk of injury
- Development of life skills, such as cooking, cleaning, and managing finances
- Improved cognitive function and reduced symptoms of mental illness
Whether the client is recovering from an injury, managing a chronic illness, or facing developmental delays, occupational therapy can provide holistic support to manage their health and well-being.
Want To Be an Occupational Therapist?
Occupational therapy is a rewarding and fulfilling healthcare field that helps individuals achieve independence and participate in daily activities. OT practitioners provide an invaluable service that can help change lives in an impactful and meaningful way.
If this sounds like the right career for you, West Coast University’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy and Occupational Therapy Doctorate programs help you develop the skills and competencies you need to get started! They provide a hands-on education that emphasizes holistic, client-centered care and evidence-based practice.
What are you waiting for? Begin your occupational therapy journey today!
1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Occupational Therapists
2 “AOTA’s Advanced Certification Program,” American Occupational Therapy Association
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
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