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In an occupational therapy job, you will help patients with various disabilities—from decreased motor skills to short term memory loss—learn how to work around their limitations. Whether they have developmental disabilities or are recovering from life-altering injuries, patients on the road to independent living and rehabilitation face many challenges. Occupational therapists devote their expertise to helping people reach their potential for living full, productive lives. Occupational therapists see patients with a wide variety of challenges. Some patients need help with daily tasks such as getting dressed or cooking, while others need assistance improving less tangible skills such as decision-making and memory. An occupational therapy job provides wide exposure to different people, situations and issues that will tap into your compassion and creativity, making this a fulfilling career for those who are passionate about helping others.  Occupational Therapy Job Responsibilities Your typical duties as an occupational therapist may include the following tasks: - Developing rehabilitation plans for patients and providing ongoing evaluations of their activities and progress
- Assisting clients in a wide range of activities, from driving a car to daily living skills
- Training those with permanent disabilities to use adaptive equipment
One of the largest areas of job growth for occupational therapists is in business consulting. You might choose to work with architects and contractors on design and accessibility issues, or to lend your expertise to such areas as technology development and ergonomics. Work Environment for Occupational Therapy Jobs While most occupational therapists work in hospitals, occupational therapy jobs may also be found in these settings: - Clinics
- Public and private educational services
- Nursing care facilities
- Home health agencies
- Outpatient care services
- Community care centers
- Government agencies
- Private practice
Characteristics of Successful Occupational Therapists Patience – Learning new skills in the face of physical, mental, emotional or developmental disabilities can be a time-consuming process. Occupational therapists need to have the patience to deal with slow progress. They'll need to remain encouraging and positive with patients who experience setbacks and frustration, and not get discouraged themselves when the process takes time. Creativity – In order to develop ways for patients to overcome a wide array of challenges, you'll need to be able to assess each individual situation and come up with a strategy for helping each patient build their skills. This might mean recommending, modifying or even designing adaptive equipment to help a patient accomplish necessary tasks. Adaptability – Each patient, situation and work environment you encounter in your occupational therapy job is different, which means you'll need to adapt quickly to changes. Just as you work to adapt a patient's work or living environment to fit their unique individual needs, you will also need to be able to adapt to provide them with custom care that fits them. Is an Occupational Therapy Job for You? The field of occupational therapy offers a fulfilling career that gives you the opportunity to make a difference with patients and clients who are striving to overcome challenges and live independent, satisfying lives. If this career path is for you, the first step is to get the education you'll need to succeed in an occupational therapy job. Read more about occupational therapy schools and education requirements; or find schools with occupational therapy programs, and request more information. |
