An Occupational Therapist (OT) is a healthcare professional who helps people improve their ability to perform daily tasks and activities, including work-related tasks. OTs work with individuals across the lifespan, including children and older adults, who may be affected by injury, illness, or disability that may limit their ability to function independently.
OTs assess their client's physical, cognitive, and psychosocial abilities and work with them to develop personalized treatment plans to address their specific needs. They use a range of therapeutic techniques and equipment to help clients achieve their goals, such as exercises to improve strength and range of motion, adaptive equipment to improve mobility, and cognitive strategies to improve memory and attention.
In addition to working with individuals, OTs also work with organizations and communities to promote healthy living and wellness, prevent injury and illness, and create environments that are more inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities. They may also be involved in research and development to improve the effectiveness of their interventions.
OTs can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and community-based organizations. They may also work in private practice or as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and physical therapists, to provide comprehensive care to their clients.
To become an OT, one typically needs to earn a Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program, complete supervised clinical experience, and pass a national certification examination. Additionally, OTs may pursue further education and certification in specialized areas, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or mental health.