Those working in occupational therapy are likely to find themselves helping people who have a range of social, physical or mental disabilities. The job is both challenging and rewarding, and involves helping people to either regain their well-being or to maintain a certain level of health.
An occupational therapist is likely to work with people of all ages, from young children who may have been suffering from medical problems from birth, to adults who may have started having problems after an illness, an accident, their choice of lifestyle or simply through old age.
It is the responsibility of the therapist to put together a variety of treatment programs aimed at improving their client’s quality of life. Because the problems encountered are often mental as well as physical, an occupational therapist needs to have patience, empathy and excellent communication skills.
Those choosing the profession will first have to obtain a master’s degree or a doctorate. Salaries vary greatly, but C
$70,000 per year is average.