Occupational therapists use a client-centered approach and focus on assisting children in participating in meaningful occupations. An “occupation” is anything that a child wants to do or needs to do that provides purpose and meaning. Occupations range from daily living activities (morning routines, meal preparation, feeding/eating, and so on), to academic activities (handwriting, cutting, etc), to one of the most important occupations… play!
This post will describe what exactly an occupational therapist is, who they can help, and how to become one!
What Is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist?
A pediatric occupational therapist (OT) is a professional who is trained to evaluate and assess a child’s ability to complete their meaningful occupations and develop treatment plans in order to address underlying skill differences. Occupational therapists may work with individuals across the lifespan. Pediatric occupational therapists may address the following skill areas:
- Activities of Daily Living
- Feeding
- Fine Motor Manipulation and Strength
- Visual-Motor Integration
- Gross Motor Coordination and Strength
- Sensory Integration and Processing
- Emotion Regulation
- Executive Functioning
- Play Skills and Leisure Skills
- Sleep Hygiene
Who Do Pediatric Occupational Therapists Help?
Occupational therapists work with individuals of all ages who have difficulties with completing their daily activities and occupations. This includes children with a variety of diagnoses including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, developmental delay, and so on. Occupational therapists work with both children and their families to ensure treatment plans align with the family’s goals and to ensure carryover and generalization of skills across environments.
Steps To Become an Occupational Therapist
Here are the steps you need to take to become an OT.
Complete a Bachelor’s Degree In a Related Field
The first step is to complete a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as exercise science, psychology, or biology.
Complete a Master’s or Doctorate Degree in Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists require either a Master’s or Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy. There are many programs around the country that offer either a Master’s degree, Doctorate degree, or both.
Pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) Exam
To receive full credentials, Occupational Therapy school graduates need to pass the occupational therapy credentialing exam, called the NBCOT exam.
Obtain State Licensure and NBCOT Certification
To work as an OT, state licensure and NBCOT certification must be obtained.
Continuing Education Courses
It is important to continue your education even after you have obtained your license and certification. This will ensure that you are up-to-date on the latest research and developments in the field of occupational therapy.
Where Can You Work as an Occupational Therapist?
Pediatric occupational therapists can work in a variety of settings including outpatient, schools, early intervention, hospital-based, and in community settings.
We at KC Therapy are committed to building a team of knowledgeable, passionate, and collaborative occupational therapists. Contact us today to join our mission to SERVE together!
