Graduating with an occupational therapy degree is the first step toward a fulfilling career. You now possess the skills and education necessary to pursue a career in the field, but you’re unsure about the following steps to take. The goal is to secure your ideal job, but achieving this will require time and effort.
Fortunately, this field is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years. Occupational therapists also earn a decent salary. When looking at OT job listings, you will find that you can choose from many practices in various geographical regions. What should you know when searching for your dream job?
The Occupational Therapist’s Role in Healthcare
An occupational therapist helps individuals become more independent and manage their daily tasks more effectively. A person recovering from an injury or someone with a chronic condition may require assistance with completing daily activities. The occupational therapist works with them to find ways to complete these activities based on their current capabilities.
Before developing this plan, you must understand the patient’s mental and physical health. You need to know the specific challenges this individual faces and which areas they would like to focus on. With this information, you can develop a plan that will help the individual regain their all-time.
Job Growth Projections
According to U.S. News & World Report, occupational therapists are among the top 25 jobs in the country today. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment in this field will grow 11% in the coming decade. Healthcare organizations will need almost 10,000 new therapists each year. Thanks to these job opportunities, you will have the chance to grow your career and succeed in this field.
What Drives This Growth?
Several things are driving the need for occupational therapists today. Many occupational therapists are retiring or changing careers, while patient demand is increasing. More people now recognize the value of occupational therapy and are requesting these services. As a result, the employment rate is also growing.
An occupational therapist helps patients recover after an injury or surgery. They also work with individuals who have disabilities to find ways to manage these limitations. Someone who has fallen ill may find they benefit from this type of therapy, and occupational therapists often work with individuals who have developmental disabilities. Currently, many occupational therapists are helping patients who struggle with chronic COVID-related fatigue.
Occupational Therapist Pay
An occupational therapist can make up to $100,000 a year. Some individuals earn $79,000 per year, while others earn almost $110,000 per year. An individual’s location and experience level significantly influence the pay they receive. Individuals working in skilled nursing facilities earn more than many of their peers. The same holds for home health care occupational therapists who work in hospitals.
Practice Settings
Occupational therapists often work in private practice, but they may also be found in schools and mental health facilities. Military rehabilitation is one area where occupational therapists are in high demand, and many individuals in the field work in nursing and skilled nursing facilities. You can choose a practice location that best suits your needs and find employment easily today.
Every person must decide if occupational therapy is the right career for their needs. For those who choose this path, the job opportunities will be plentiful. A person can choose which patients they work with and their desired practice setting. As a result, any person working as an occupational therapist can grow their career and achieve success.
