If you are looking for a stable career, and one that will give you instant gratification, becoming an occupational therapist will be a great choice. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a continuous growth in the demand for occupational therapists until the year 2018. With that said, you have every reason to want to be an OT. So what does it take to become an occupational therapist?
Before trying to know how you can become an OT, it is important that you know who an occupational therapist is and what your duties would be if you ever became one. Occupational therapists are skilled professionals who help people regain their physical strength and abilities. The services of an OT are usually required by those people who have suffered from a severe accident, any form of brain injury or any major mental illness.
To become an OT, you are required to complete a post-secondary education in psychology, social work, or occupational therapy. These programs are available at technical colleges, universities and colleges. In general, you would need two years of formal schooling plus some work experience. Occupational therapist degree programs in universities typically last for four years, with extra courses offered for program extension to five to six years.
While states may vary in terms of the license requirements for those who want to practice occupational therapy, it is almost mandatory that you pass a state licensure exam to be a registered therapist. And so, you should be aware of your state’s requirements on licensing and make sure also that you have both the education and the experience needed before you even think of applying. And so, it is essential that you have enough patience and compassion to be able to fulfill your role. In your learning to be a great therapist, you would want to have a mentor who will show and teach you how personal and professional relationships with patients should be dealt with.
Once you have started your degree as an occupational therapist, make sure that you keep yourself up to date with all the new theories and technologies that can make your job a very effective one. Try to participate in lectures, seminars and even part time courses just so you may know what developments are taking place in your field.
If you happen to be a nurse or you are working as a personal support worker, you may still make the transition to occupational therapy. All you will have to do is ask a couple of universities or colleges for academic credits for prior work experience and education you have. After your credentials have been evaluated and credited, you will have a great opportunity to have fewer required subjects as you try to complete an occupational therapist degree program. As a result, you will have a little easier course load, which can mean earlier completion of the program.
If occupational therapy seems like a career you could be interested in you can search for occupational therapy schools right now by clicking the featured links to our free online Occupational Therapy Guide.
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