The Canyon

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists help patients with mentally, physically, developmentally, or emotionally disabling conditions to develop or re-learn functional day-to-day activities so they can be independent at home, school, work or in the community. An OT evaluates the patient's performance in self-care, work and leisure activities, then helps the patient adapt to task or make changes in the environment. Treatment may include personal self-care, thinking skills, equipment training, or hand therapy.

Health Problems Treated

OTs treat victims of stroke, cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, hand injury, mental retardation, amputation, birth defects, head injury, arthritis, substance abuse, spinal cord injury, and depression. Problems with strength and dexterity, visual acuity, and memory loss are often referred to OTs.

Work Settings

32% of all OTs work in general, psychiatric, or pediatric hospitals. Another 12% work in rehabilitation hospitals and centers. !9% work in public and private schools. The remaining 37% work in universities, home health, day care, private practices, and other.

Professional Outlook

There is a growing shortage of occupational therapists today and in the near future. The median beginning salary for occupational therapists is $49,450, which increases with experience to an overall average salary of $57,890 for the profession.

Education

Occupational therapy programs may lead to a four year Bachelor's degree or they may be a two year program leading to a Master's degree or certificate. The nearest OT training is the Master's program offered at Kirksville Southwest center in Phoenix. Prerequisite courses for this program include:

Human Anatomy & Physiology 1 year
General Biology 1 year
General Chemistry 1 year
English 1 year
Humanities 2 courses
College Algebra or higher 1 course
Physics 1 semester
Psychology 3 courses, including abnormal & developmental

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