Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist

Duties and Responsibilities:

            Occupational Therapy Assistants and Aides help patients who are mentally, emotionally, or physically disabled adjust to handicaps and regain abilities to perform daily living and self-care skills.  They work under the supervision of occupational therapists as part of a team with physicians, counselors, and physical therapists.

            Occupational Therapy assistants work closely with patients to assist them in making reports to the occupational therapist on the patients’ assistants and development. Most are employed at hospitals and others can work in nursing homes. Some work for schools for the handicapped or in rehabilitation centers and daycare centers

Average Salary: $12,000 - $15,000 (Occupational Therapy Aides)

                             $17,000 - $26,000 (Occupational Therapy Assistants)

Educational Requirements:

            Occupational Therapy Aides must have at least a high school diploma or a GED certificate. They receive training on the job.

            Occupational therapy assistants must complete a two year training program that includes clinical experience. They must also pass a national exam to earn a certification as a qualified assistant

I do not believe I would like to become an Occupation therapist because although I may love to help people I do not have much patience to work in the places necessary like a nursing home or hospital.