Occupational Therapist

Exam

Third-party exam

Education

Degree

Experience

Experience

Background check

Required

Occupational therapists plan and direct educational, vocational, and recreational activities to help mentally, physically, or emotionally disabled patients become self-sufficient, maintain health, and prevent disability; evaluate the capacities and skills of patients; set goals and plan therapy programs; assist patients in performing activities of all kinds, ranging from using a computer to caring for daily needs, such as dressing, cooking, and eating. For those with permanent functional disabilities, therapists provide such adaptive equipment as wheelchairs, splints, and aids for eating and dressing. They also design or make special equipment needed at home or at work. An important part of an occupational therapist's job is recording a patient's activities and progress. These records are essential for evaluating patients, billing, and reporting to physicians.