Occupational therapy is a rewarding and challenging career that helps people of all ages participate in meaningful activities and live life to the fullest. To become an occupational therapist, you must have the right education and experience. In this article, we will discuss the steps to becoming an occupational therapist.
Step 1: Complete Your Education
To become an occupational therapist, you must have a master’s degree in occupational therapy from an accredited institution. Most programs require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as psychology, sociology, or health sciences. You will also be required to complete supervised clinical internships during your program.
Step 2: Pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) Exam
After you have completed your educational program, you must pass the NBCOT exam to become certified as an occupational therapist. This exam tests your knowledge and skills related to occupational therapy. You must also have practicum experience in order to sit for the exam. After passing the exam, you must obtain a license to practice in your state.
Step 3: Get a Job
Once you have completed your educational program, passed the NBCOT exam, and obtained your license, you can begin to look for jobs as an occupational therapist. You can start by searching online job boards, asking your school’s career services office, or attending job fairs. You can also contact hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities in your area to inquire about job openings.
Step 4: Start Your Career
Once you have found a job and secured an official role as an occupational therapist, you can start your career. As an occupational therapist, you will work with individuals of all ages to help them with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. You may also help individuals with physical disabilities, mental health conditions, and other medical conditions. You will use your skills and knowledge to develop treatment plans and help individuals reach their goals.
Step 5: Continuing Education and Professional Development
To maintain your license and stay current on best practices, you must participate in regular continuing education and professional development. You can find continuing education courses online or through professional associations. You can also attend conferences and workshops related to occupational therapy. This will help you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and practices in the field.
Conclusion
Becoming an occupational therapist is a rewarding and challenging career. To become an occupational therapist, you must complete your education, pass the NBCOT exam, obtain a license, and get a job. Once you are in the field, you must participate in continuing education and professional development to stay current on best practices. If you are interested in becoming an occupational therapist, follow these steps to start your career.