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Occupational Therapy as a Career

As society moves forward in the 21st Century, so does the need to develop and provide advanced ways to promote health and inclusion for all people. Occupational Therapists work with clients across the lifespan in healthcare, education, and community settings to support their engagement in everyday activities (called 鈥渙ccupations鈥�). They identify and reduce barriers to participation in occupations including physical, cognitive, psychological, social, and environmental factors. They believe that engaging in occupations promotes self-identity, health, and wellness.

Occupational Therapy practitioners work with people at every age and stage of life to maintain their functional daily living.听
You will find them in:

• Early intervention working with babies and toddlers to thrive in their homes
• Schools (preschool through graduation) supporting students in special education
• Hospitals and clinics promoting recovery from injuries and diseases
• Residential facilities and nursing homes engaging people in meaningful lives
• Industry helping injured workers return to their jobs
• Health promotion helping people establish healthy habits
• Mental health maintaining wellness through purposeful tasks

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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of OTs is projected to grow 14% over the next decade.听 This is much faster than the 5% average for all other jobs.

In 2021 the median wages were:

• $85,570 for Occupational Therapists (with most making $60,680-$123,840)
• $61,730 for Occupational Therapy Assistants (with most making $46,810-$80,210)

Colleges and Universities are required to ensure that their occupational therapy education programs meet specific standards.

Occupational Therapist (OT) Master's or Doctoral Degree

• Practice independently
• Conduct the whole therapy process
• Supervise and collaborate with OTAs

Occupational Therapy Assistant

• Provide and document therapy under an OT's supervision
• Collaborate with the OT to gather data and plan services.

After After graduation, OTs and OTAs take a registry exam. OTs who pass use the credentials OTR and OTAs who pass use the credentials COTA. In all U.S. states and territories, OTs and OTAs need a professional license to practice.

You apply to OT and OTA education programs through the Centralized Application Services (OTCAS or OTACAS). Learn more at the 's webpage.