Occupational therapists work to help people regain, improve, and maintain the skills needed for daily life and work. If you’re wondering, “What do occupational therapists do?”—they assist individuals of all ages who face physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges, enabling them to lead more independent, fulfilling lives. Occupational therapy jobs span various environments and specializations, making this career path both versatile and effective.

Starting a Career in Occupational Therapy

To begin a career in occupational therapy, you'd typically complete a master’s or doctoral degree in OT from an accredited institution, followed by passing the national certification exam to become a licensed OT. Many programs emphasize a combination of classroom education, hands-on practice, and interprofessional collaboration. Such training is critical as it prepares students to meet the diverse needs of their future clients and excel in an interdisciplinary healthcare environment.

Once licensed, occupational therapists have a wide variety of career paths open to them. They can work with patients across the lifespan, including children, adults, and the elderly. Entry-level roles often involve working in rehabilitation centers, schools, or hospitals, where new OTs gain experience under supervision, applying techniques they learned during their studies.

Career Advancement in Occupational Therapy

As occupational therapists gain experience, many seek specialization, advanced certifications, or leadership roles. Here are some common paths for career advancement in OT:

  • Clinical Specialist: OTs can specialize in areas like pediatric therapy, geriatric care, hand therapy, or neurological rehabilitation. Specialization often requires additional training or certification but allows therapists to focus on specific populations or conditions, enhancing their expertise and increasing their impact on patients.
  • Supervisory or Management Roles: Experienced OTs may move into management, overseeing teams of therapists, organizing patient care, and ensuring departmental goals are met. These roles require leadership skills and a deep understanding of clinical practices and healthcare management.
  • Academic and Research Positions: Some OTs transition into academia, teaching and training the next generation of therapists. Others focus on research, contributing to the development of evidence-based practices and innovations in therapy techniques.
  • Private Practice: After gaining significant experience, some occupational therapists open private practices, offering specialized services or working as consultants. This path allows for autonomy and the ability to tailor services directly to clients’ needs.

Environments Where Occupational Therapists Work

Occupational therapy jobs can be found in a variety of environments, each offering unique opportunities and challenges. Here’s an overview of the primary settings where OTs work and the focus of therapy in each.

1. Hospitals and Rehabilitation Centers

In hospital settings, occupational therapists work with patients recovering from surgeries, injuries, or illnesses, such as strokes or orthopedic conditions. Rehabilitation centers, on the other hand, focus specifically on intensive therapy for patients who require ongoing care to regain functional abilities. OTs in these settings work collaboratively with doctors, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to create comprehensive treatment plans.

2. Schools and Pediatric Clinics

For those interested in working with children, schools and pediatric clinics provide rewarding opportunities. OTs in these environments help children with physical, sensory, and cognitive challenges develop skills for school and home life. This may include working on motor skills, improving attention and focus, or helping with social interaction. Pediatric OTs often work with teachers, parents, and other specialists to create supportive learning environments.

3. Mental Health Facilities

Occupational therapy has strong applications in mental health, where therapists help clients manage daily tasks, develop coping strategies, and improve life skills. OTs in mental health settings may work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, or other mental health conditions. Therapy often includes activities that improve social skills, emotional regulation, and self-care routines.

4. Home Health and Community Settings

Some occupational therapists work directly in clients’ homes or in community-based programs, focusing on helping individuals maintain independence in their daily environments. This is especially common for elderly clients or those with chronic health conditions who may benefit from learning adaptations to stay safe and self-sufficient at home. In this setting, OTs provide adaptive equipment, help modify home layouts, and train clients on techniques for daily living.

5. Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living Facilities

Occupational therapists working in skilled nursing or assisted living facilities provide ongoing support for residents, particularly the elderly or those with long-term disabilities. These OTs focus on improving quality of life by maintaining the individual's ability to perform everyday activities, providing equipment training, and adapting activities to ensure safety and engagement.

6. Corporate and Workplace Environments

Occupational therapy extends into corporate settings, where OTs work as ergonomics consultants or in employee wellness programs. In this role, they help design workspaces that reduce the risk of injury and promote a healthier, more productive environment. OTs in workplace settings may conduct assessments to improve workstation layouts, develop exercise programs, and educate employees on safe practices to prevent repetitive strain injuries.

Choosing a Career Path in Occupational Therapy

One of the key benefits of occupational therapy is the flexibility to work in diverse settings and with various populations. While some OTs spend their entire careers in a single specialization, others find fulfillment in exploring different environments and roles. Each setting offers unique rewards, and as occupational therapy grows as a field, the demand for skilled OTs across specialties and settings continues to rise.

Continuing Education in Occupational Therapy

Because the field of occupational therapy is evolving, OTs benefit from ongoing professional development. Many pursue advanced certifications, attend workshops, or join professional organizations like the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) to stay current on best practices. In addition, some occupational therapists return to academia for additional degrees, advancing into research or leadership roles within the healthcare field.

A Rewarding Path in Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy jobs offer a meaningful and flexible career path that allows therapists to make a difference in patients' lives every day. Whether working in hospitals, schools, mental health facilities, or corporate environments, OTs help clients achieve independence, develop skills, and improve their quality of life. As you consider “what do occupational therapists do,” know that each career path in OT has a profound impact on the individuals and communities served. If you are dedicated to helping others lead more fulfilling lives, occupational therapy is an incredibly versatile profession.