If you’re pursuing a career in occupational therapy, a rewarding path lies ahead. You’ll be helping people overcome disabilities and injuries. You’ll also be helping them achieve and maintain their independence. Occupational therapists are in high demand right now, and the need for them is constantly growing. At the same time, there are numerous branches of this field to enter into. Take a look at the current outlook for the occupational therapy sector and ways to improve your chances of getting a job in this field.
Looking Ahead at the Occupational Therapy Job Market
Occupational therapy has seen a steady increase in demand over the last several years. Reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that jobs in this field are expected to grow at least 12 percent per year moving forward. Several factors are driving this growth. Additionally, there’s a burgeoning shortage of occupational therapists taking shape that’s projected to become more significant in the years to come. With all that being the case, your odds of getting occupational therapist work are high.
Factors Driving Growth in the OT Field
One of the factors that’s causing growth in the field of occupational therapy is an aging population. As the baby boomer generation grows older, they’re experiencing an increased need for support services like OT. Another element that’s contributing to the rising job market is the growing rate of people on the autism spectrum. Advancements in medical treatments and assistive technology are impacting the field as well. Increased awareness of the importance of occupational therapy services also factors into the equation. On top of all that, the ongoing shortage of qualified professionals in the medical sector hasn’t left this branch of the profession out of its wake.
How Much Money Do Occupational Therapists Make?
As the demand for occupational therapists has grown, so has the average income in this field. Recent reports show that salaries for full-time practitioners have surged more than 8 percent over the last several years. At this point, the median salary for occupational therapists is around $85,000 per year, but it can reach $120,000 or more. Hourly rates range from $23 to $80 or more. For OT assistants, the average salary hovers around $48,000 or about $26 per hour. Keep in mind that those are general figures. They can vary by location, practice, and several other factors.
Getting a Job as an Occupational Therapist
If you’re looking for a job as an occupational therapist, numerous considerations come into play. For one, you’ll need to complete the necessary training and education to become licensed. Prerequisites vary by state. Most positions require a master’s degree in OT from an accredited school. You’ll also need to pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam. That’s just the beginning. If you’d like to specialize in a specific field of OT, you’ll need to complete the required additional education and certification for that.
Building the right professional connections and networks can greatly improve your chances of finding employment in the field. Be sure to use job boards and other resources to your benefit as well. Ongoing education will work out in your favor too. Furthermore, be sure to create a well-rounded resume and cover letter for potential employers to highlight your training, strengths, and passion for what you do. Numerous jobs are available in the field of occupational therapy, and with the right measures, you’ll be more likely to become an active part of the industry.
