Occupational Therapy Schools Guide
Occupational Therapy has been developing into one of the most popular careers for those looking to make a difference in the lives of others. US News and World Report recently ranked Occupational Therapy as a “Best Career” in 2009. But straightforward information on the field can be hard to find. The information below will help you clearly understand the role of an occupational therapist. The other pages on this site were designed to help those seeking a career in OT understand the step-by-step process of choosing the right school from the many occupational therapy schools in the US and beginning a successful career in the field. Please visit our other pages and contact us if there is additional guidance that we can provide.
After reading this you will be able to:
- Identify those who need occupational therapy
- Explain the role of a therapist in the rehabilitation process
- Understand why it is called “occupational therapy.”
- Decide if you are interested in pursuing a career in the field
Who needs Occupational Therapy?
Anyone struggling with the physical aspects of everyday life is a candidate for OT. Patients range the gamut from children who are having trouble developing important motor skills through seniors trying to recover the fine control they had in youth.
You may also work with patients who have lost their ability to function due to an accident or injury. The role of the therapist and the assistant is to help the patient learn or regain those skills that are required for everyday living.
You will find yourself helping a child gain the ability to participate more effectively in school, or someone who has lost the ability to control their arms after a car accident. You may be helping the elderly learn to care for themselves after suffering a fall.
What is the role of an Occupational Therapist in the rehabilitation process?
As an occupational therapist you will perform an evaluation of the individual’s current situation (sometimes with the help of family members) to determine the goals of therapy. You will develop the plan of therapy that will help the patient improve his or her ability to perform these activities and accomplish these goals. And you will evaluate the progress being made, guaranteeing that things are moving along smoothly. When modifications are necessary, you will be responsible for those, as well.
You may be required to visit the patient’s home, workplace, or school, ensuring that any adaptive equipment required is in place. While attending one of the many occupational therapy schools you will learn what treatment plans are appropriate and what equipment is required depending on the patient’s situation. The occupational therapist will help the family members of the patient get any training needed to assist. Your recommendations will help to ensure the patient recovers as quickly as possible.
Why is it called Occupational Therapy?
Many people make the mistake of thinking that occupational therapy is associated with the workplace, but it’s not. The term “occupations” refer to those everyday activities that are required for normal functioning, and can include brushing hair and teeth, tying shoes, and self feeding. These are known as “occupations.”
It is easy to understand how an inability to perform these functions can cause serious detriment to the self-esteem of any individual, regardless of their age. It will be your job to help these individuals regain their ability to care for themselves. In doing so, you will be helping them to live life to the fullest.
Occupational therapy is not a career for everyone, but those who gain an education at one of the accredited occupational therapy schools and pursue the career often find it to be deeply rewarding.
Are you interested in learning more?
If OT is a career that you’d like to learn more about, read our next page that outlines the educational requirements and different Types of Occupational Therapists.
