Exploring Health Professions

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy is based on the use of everyday activities as the means of helping people to achieve independence.

In treating a person with a physical disability, the first focus is on performing critical daily activities, such as dressing, grooming, bathing, and eating. Once these skills are mastered, the occupational therapy program is built around the skills needed to perform a person's daily responsibilities, such as caring for a home and family, participating in education, or seeking and holding employment.

The goals for a client with mental illness are also based on the ability to function independently. In treating mental or emotional problems, the occupational therapy program often includes practice in managing time, working productively with others and enjoying leisure.

Depending on your employer or the setting in which you work, your occupational therapy career may include...

* aiding the growth and development of premature babies

* creating learning environments for physically challenged school children

* providing activities to build self-esteem in teens recovering from drug or alcohol abuse

* adapting home environments for people dealing with the effects of stroke

* analyzing job task requirements for an injured worker

* conducting research to measure the effectiveness of treatment activities

* teaching occupational therapy skills and methods to students and other health professionals."

(from Occupational Therapy Careers, American Occupational Therapy Association.)

To become an occupational therapist, you must complete a program accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association. Accredited programs are available in colleges and universities throughout the country. You may complete either a 4-year bachelor's degree program, or transfer to an Occupational Therapy program after 2 years in a liberal arts program. Beginning in January, 2007 all new occupational therapy candidates will need a post baccalaureate degree. College graduates with a degree in another field may choose an entry-level master's degree program or a post-baccalaureate certificate program. After completing the educational program, you will be eligible to take the national examination to become a Registered Occupational Therapist (OT).

Preparation required for entry into an entry level master's program varies among schools. It is, therefore, best to contact individual schools for their prerequisite requirements. For further information about occupational therapy and a list of accredited programs, contact the American Occupational Therapy Association, 4720 Montgomery Lane, P.O. Box 31220, Bethesda, MD 20824-1220, (301) 652-2682, www.aota.org. Or contact the Boston School of Occupational Therapy (BSOT) of Tufts University at (617) 627-3720 or www.ase.tufts.edu/bsot.