Occupational Therapist
Why Is Occupational Therapy a Job of Tomorrow?
The healthcare industry will always be recession proof. No matter what state the economy is in, or what trends come and go, there will always be a need for healthcare professionals. Inevitable illnesses and other health-related conditions keep physicians, nurses, and other medical staff in constant demand. As the world population increases, this demand will only heighten, making healthcare one of the fastest growing industries today. Occupational therapists play an integral role in the healthcare profession as medical technology allows more people to overcome otherwise debilitating conditions. These patients will then need the help of an occupational therapist to help them regain their independence in performing routine, daily functions. Employment positions for occupational therapists expect to see a 23 percent growth in opportunities by 2016, a much faster growth than the average rate, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average annual salary for occupational therapists is $60,470.
What Does an Occupational Therapist Do?
Occupational therapists work with patients who are suffering from a mentally, physically, or developmentally disabling condition, such as injury trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder. The goal of the occupation is to help patients become independently functional and productive again, helping them regain their ability to perform job duties such as typing, as well as accomplish routine behaviors like getting dressed and cooking. In the case of patients with permanent disabilities, such as paralysis of the legs, occupational therapists instruct them on how to use special equipment like wheelchairs or prosthetics. Occupational therapists also create and manage therapy plans for their patients, keeping record of the progress each patient is making as well as making any changes necessary to aid in the patient’s recovery. Therapists often work exclusively with a certain type of patient, such as the elderly or those with spinal cord injuries.
What Kind of Training Do I Need to Become an Occupational Therapist?
An education of a master’s degree or higher in occupational therapy is required for licensure. A master’s program typically takes about two years to complete, therefore a prospective occupational therapist should expect to spend at least six years in school before practicing, as a bachelor’s degree is required for any occupational therapy master’s program. The degree program courses cover anatomy, behavioral science, and basic biology as well as other relevant subjects. After earning a post-graduate degree with an accredited program, graduates must pass a national certification examination which would allow them to become a registered occupational therapist. Continuing education is recommended for occupational therapists, although relicensing is not required, according to the Columbia University Medical Center.
