Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists (OTs) work with the mentally, physically, emotionally, or developmentally disabled to help them live independent, productive, and satisfying lives. Occupational therapists work with people whose ability to work has been impaired, and as they develop their abilities an occupational therapist will help them find work, and even work with the employer to make sure the worker’s needs are met.

Occupational therapists typically help people who have permanent disabilities, including but not limited to spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, and muscular dystrophy. They be imaginative, as they must customize the activities they design to each disabled individual’s needs. The would-be occupational therapist also needs a lot of patience, and excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Perhaps most importantly, they must inspire trust in their clients.

Education and Credentials Required
An occupational therapist must have at least a bachelors’ degree. As of 2007, a masters’ degree becomes the new minimum requirement for entry into the field. Occupational therapists must obtain the designation "Occupational Therapist Registered" (OTR) by graduating from an accredited program and passing a national exam. 38 schools offer bachelors’ degrees, and 48 offer combined bachelors’ and masters’ degree, and five an entry-level Ph.D.

Future Prospects
Employment opportunities for occupational therapists are expected to rise faster than average, because the number of individuals with disabilities or limited function is expected to rise. The ageing baby-boomer generation is also a factor. A growing interest on the part of the public in promoting good health will also fuel demand for physical therapists.

Salary Range
The median salary, as of 2002, for occupational therapists was $51,990. The top ten percent earned more than $74,390, and the bottom ten percent, less than $35,130. Self-employed physical therapists can expect to earn significantly more than salaried physical therapists. Experience, location, skill, reputation, hours worked and other factors impact income. Physical therapists must pay for their own health benefits and retirement benefits if they are self-employed.