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Occupational Therapy Career Resources
Occupational Therapist Job Overview
Whether you’re a graduate of or current student in WCU’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) or Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program, or are just curious to learn more, it can be helpful to familiarize yourself with these aspects of a career in occupational therapy.
Sample Occupational Therapist Responsibilities
- Evaluating patients’ conditions by reviewing their medical history, interviewing them, and observing them perform various tasks
- Demonstrating how to perform certain exercises
- Developing and implementing treatment plans
- Providing early intervention therapy to infants and children
- Helping patients relearn and perform daily living tasks
- Evaluating the patient’s workspace and meeting with the patient’s employer to collaborate on accessibility modifications
- Educating a patient’s family about how to accommodate and care for them
- Recommending special equipment, such as mobility aids and eating aids, and showing patients and their family how to use them
Types of Occupational Therapy Careers
Occupational therapy is a diverse field composed of different specialties that are tailored towards unique interests and skill sets. Here are a few different OT careers.
Pediatric Occupational Therapist
- Occupational therapists working with children are trying to determine where delays or limitations are coming from, especially in the areas of fine motor skills, cognitive skills, social development, and establishing self-care routines.
Geriatric Occupational Therapist
- To help overcome these daily challenges, occupational therapists help patients learn how to perform exercises and rehabilitation techniques that make it easier for patients to complete ADLs. These activities of daily living include walking, dressing, bathing, eating, and toileting.
- Occupational therapists help seniors improve their basic motor skills, strength, dexterity, range of motion, and mobility. By gradually improving these key skills, patients will find it easier to complete everyday tasks and safely regain their independence they deserve.
Acute Care Occupational Therapist
- Begin working with patients early in their recovery process to determine the best treatments. Given their knowledge of anatomy, kinesiology, and neurology, occupational therapists are important members of the acute care team.
- Occupational therapists also work on interprofessional teams with physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, nurses, and physicians to determine the best course of action. For example, if the PT recommends that the patient spend several minutes standing twice a day, an OT may suggest that the patient pair this likely challenging weight-bearing activity with an enjoyable activity of daily living such as eating a meal.
Top Occupational Therapist Qualities
- Adaptability – must be accommodating when working with patients, potentially changing treatment plans based on a patient’s needs
- Communication skills – must listen closely, explain treatment plans and goals to patients and their families, and collaborate with other members of the healthcare team
- Compassion – must be empathetic and sensitive to a patient’s needs and concerns
- Interpersonal skills – must be able to develop a rapport with clients.
- Patience – must remain calm working with those who experience challenges with activities of daily living in order to provide quality care
For more, see the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Profile for Occupational Therapists.
Preparing for Your Occupational Therapy Job Interview
Occupational Therapy Associations
Recommended Professional Associations
- American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
- Occupational Therapy Association of California (OTAC)
Recommended Student On Campus Association
- Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA)
- Peer Assisted Learning (PAL)
Organizations that hire our graduates
“The MSOT program prepared me to not only step into any area of practice but also into leadership. The things that made the biggest difference in my career were the opportunities to interact with professionals in the field who provided mentorship and guidance along the way.”
-Blake E., MSOT Graduate ’19
FAQs
What are some common occupational therapist interview questions?
During an interview for an occupational therapy position, you might encounter questions that assess your clinical skills, problem-solving abilities, and passion for patient care. Some possible questions include:
- What motivates you to become an occupational therapist?
- How do you create personalized treatment plans for patients?
- Describe a situation where you helped a patient overcome a significant challenge.
- What is your experience working with different populations (e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics)?
- How do you stay current with new techniques and advancements in occupational therapy?
What should I include on my occupational therapist resume?
In addition to your contact information, references, and personal/professional characteristics that help you excel in an OT role, your occupational therapy resume should:
- Your educational background, clinical experience, and relevant certifications.
- Your OT degree, internships, and any fieldwork experience
- State licensure and any certifications such as hand therapy or neurorehabilitation
- Overview of patient populations you’ve worked with, settings you’ve worked in, or other noteworthy tasks you’ve performed
What are the different career paths available in occupational therapy?
Occupational therapy offers diverse career paths. You can specialize in areas such as pediatrics, mental health, geriatrics, or physical rehabilitation. Beyond clinical care, occupational therapists can pursue roles in research, education, or healthcare administration. Some therapists even choose to work in community health or ergonomic consulting.
What benefits come from joining occupational therapy organizations?
Joining occupational therapy organizations like the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) offers networking opportunities, continuing education, and access to the latest research and practice trends. Membership can also help you stay connected with industry professionals and advance your career through leadership opportunities and mentorship.
Have Questions?
Get in touch with our team
*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.
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment.
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