You might hire an occupational therapist to:
- Help a child suffering from movement impairment to participate in daily activities
Help patients improve their sensory and motor abilities after suffering from a debilitating injury, illness, or event, such as an accident or a stroke
Teach playing skills, learning strategies, and self-care to children with autism
- Assist patients with brain injuries to reintegrate back into the community
- Teach a newly rehabilitating patient how to use their prosthesis
- Help a patient minimize pain from arthritis — and to optimize daily activity
Required skills and qualifications | Preferred skills and qualifications |
Knowledge of theories, principles, and concepts typically acquired through the completion of a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy or equivalent | The analytical skills needed to collect information from diverse sources and solve complex problems |
1–3 years of experience | Strong organizational skills |
State licensure as an occupational therapist or equivalent | An affinity for providing occupational therapy with compassion |
The ability to effectively communicate with caregivers, patients, and fellow occupational therapists | Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills |
Patience and empathy | Flexibility in the field |