Being self-sufficient in everyday life
contributes to a person’s confidence
and self-esteem.
Occupational therapists
– also called OTs –
help people develop…recover…
and improve their self-sufficiency
and the ability to enjoy work
and daily activities…more fully.
Patients typically seek out the help of
OTs due to disability, illness, injury,
or mental health issues.
They help patients with daily life activities
such as feeding themselves,
getting ready for work without assistance,
using public transportation,
and participating in school.
OTs work with their patients to
identify goals for treatment,
then create treatment plans to reach them.
Occupational therapists evaluate
patients’ homes and workplaces
to find ways to better prepare
the environment for their needs;
for example, labeling cabinets
or removing fall hazards.
They often educate a patient’s family
and employer about how to
accommodate the person’s needs,
and document patients’ progress
throughout the treatment.
These therapists work at hospitals,
clinics, schools, and nursing homes.
They spend a lot of time on their feet,
and may lift or move patients.
Many travel to meet patients
in different settings,
and may work evenings and weekends.
Being supportive and enthusiastic are
important personal qualities for OTs.
A master’s degree and a license
are required to enter the field;
though some positions require
a doctoral-level degree.
Occupational therapy is often
a demanding career,
but it’s one that offers a rich reward—
helping people lead more active
and independent lives.