Have You Got What it Takes to Become an Occupational Therapist?

There are very few jobs in this current market that are tough, demanding yet rewarding. If you want to challenge yourself, and help others, a career in occupational therapy may just be for you. Some people are keen to make a positive impact in other people’s lives. If this describes you, a job in occupational therapy will be nothing short of satisfying.

Here is the lowdown on everything you need to know about becoming an occupational therapist:

What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapists are in charge of the treatment and the assessment of individuals. These individuals may be suffering from physical and psychiatric impairments. This means that their disability may affect their daily lives. In your role as an occupational therapist, you may will able to promote independent living. You will also need to support those who need you in their daily lives.

Your role will involve helping a wide range of people from different backgrounds, overcome their disabilities. You will have a lot of room for growth and your job will be endlessly varied. No one day is the same for occupational therapists.

Your Personal Profile

You will need steely determination, grit, common sense and enthusiasm. You will be faced with difficult challenges, but the emotional rewards are endless. You will be satisfied in knowing that you have helped somebody achieve independence. You may work in the community or hospital.

How Do I Become an Occupational Therapist?

Due to the nature of this role, you will need to have a strong academic background. You will need to have an undergraduate degree in the relevant occupational therapist courses. You will also need A-levels in science, with a strong focus on biology.

Opportunities for work are vast and occupational therapy jobs can be found online. You may have to enter your profession at an entry level position. This is where you can hone your skills and become a fully integrated team member. Assistant level is a great place to start. There is a clear progression route within this job, so you can develop yourself personally and professionally.

The Choice is Endless

Do you want to embark on a career where you can maximise your potential and showcase your skills? If so, a career in occupational therapy will be great for you.

You can work in:

Hospitals

Prisons

Schools

GP Surgeries

Community Centres

Industrial Organisations

Residential and Nursing Homes

Council Department

One of the many benefits of becoming an occupational therapist is that you have room to manoeuvre. Taking a job is important to build upon your existing knowledge base, but you may have to be prepared to move to find suitable jobs.

The NHS offers amazing services within this field. You can opt for private companies and move your career on if that is what is motivating you.

You need to be the right kind of person to go into occupational therapy. You cannot go into this career for financial gain. It takes a very special person to become an occupational therapist. Do you have what it takes?