How to become an Occupational Therapist
Overview, Courses, Exam, Colleges, Pathways, Salary
21%
₹90,000-700,000Overview
Who is Occupational Therapist ?
Occupational therapy is the science of preventing, treating, and rehabilitating persons who are physically, emotionally, cognitively, or neurologically impaired. Occupational therapist, is the health professional that helps physically or mentally challenged patients to lead a life as normal as it can be adopting various medical and scientific techniques. They are professionals that wish to contribute to society while also making a living. Occupational therapists treat patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly, and, unlike other health professions, they can work in a variety of settings, including patients' homes, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, rehabilitation centres, patients' workplaces, and their own physician's offices.
Typical day at work
What does Occupational Therapist do?
- Evaluate a patient’s condition and needs
- Develop treatment plans, goals, and activities
- Help patients with daily tasks such as getting dressed and making meals
- Teach exercises that relieve pain and increase mobility
- Evaluate a client’s home and workspace and suggest improvements
- Advise patient’s family and employer about needs and care
- Recommend helpful devices and equipment and teach a client how to use them
- Monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed
Abilities and Aptitude needed
What are the skills, abilities & aptitude needed to become Occupational Therapist?
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Compassion, empathy, and a desire to help people
- Strong analytical and observational skills
- Flexibility and creativity to develop individualized treatment plans
- Patience in working with people who may be frustrated or upset
- Time-management skills
- Keen attention to detail
Salary
Salary for Occupational Therapist?
Occupational Therapist Salary in India:
- Entry-Level Annual Salary: Entry-level occupational therapists in India can expect an annual salary ranging from INR 2,00,000 to INR 4,00,000. These earnings are typical for those who are newly graduated and beginning their careers in the field of occupational therapy.
- Experienced Annual Salary: Experienced occupational therapists with several years of practice and expertise can earn an annual salary ranging from INR 4,00,000 to INR 8,00,000 or more. Their proficiency in designing and implementing effective therapy programs contributes to their higher earnings.
- Specialized or Senior Positions: Occupational therapists who specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, neurological rehabilitation, mental health, or other advanced fields may command higher salaries. Those in senior positions or with leadership roles can earn salaries ranging from INR 8,00,000 to INR 12,00,000 or beyond.
- Location and Setting Influence: The location of employment and the setting play a significant role in determining an occupational therapist's salary. Metropolitan cities and renowned healthcare institutions generally offer higher compensation compared to smaller towns or less prominent settings.
- Career Growth and Potential: Occupational therapy is a rewarding and growing profession in India. With continuous professional development, advanced certifications, and the ability to take on higher responsibilities, occupational therapists can further enhance their earning potential.
- Job Satisfaction and Impact: Occupational therapists contribute to improving the quality of life for individuals facing various challenges. Many therapists find great job satisfaction in witnessing the positive changes in their clients' lives, which can be equally rewarding as their salary.
Pathways
How to become an Occupational Therapist?
Entrance Exam
Entrance Exam for Occupational Therapist ?
- Manipal University Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Entrance Exam
- All India Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AIIPMR) Entrance Exam
- K.M.C.H. College of Occupational Therapy Entrance Exam
- Delhi University Entrance Exam
Courses
Which course I can pursue?
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Best Colleges
Which are the best colleges to attend to become an Occupational Therapist?
Delhi 
Industries
Which Industries are open for Occupational Therapist?
- Hospitals
- Rehabilitation care units
- Clinical research facilities
- Wellness centers
- Assisted living centers
- Psychiatric facilities
- Detention centers
- Forensic institutions
- Crisis centers
- Senior communities and schools.
internship
Are there internships available for Occupational Therapist?
To find available internships for Occupational Therapists, you can consider the following steps:
- Contact Local Healthcare Facilities: Contact hospitals, rehabilitation centres, clinics, and nursing homes in your area to inquire about internship opportunities. Many healthcare facilities offer internships for OT students to gain practical experience.
- University or College Career Services: Check with your university or college's career services department. They may have information about local internship opportunities or partnerships with healthcare organizations.
- Professional Associations: Organizations like the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) may provide information on available internships or resources to help you find internship placements.
- Online Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn often list internship opportunities for healthcare professionals, including Occupational Therapists.
- Network: Attend local events, workshops, or conferences related to occupational therapy to network with professionals in the field. Networking can help you discover potential internship openings.
- Faculty and Professors: Your professors and instructors may have connections within the occupational therapy field and could provide guidance or recommendations for internship opportunities.
- Private Practices: Some private practices offer internships for OT students. Contact local rules to inquire about potential openings.
- Schools and Educational Institutions: Schools often employ Occupational Therapists to work with students. Reach out to schools in your area to inquire about potential internships.
- Rehabilitation Centers and Specialized Facilities: Facilities that focus on specific populations, such as pediatric clinics or centres for individuals with neurological disorders, may offer specialized internship opportunities.
Career outlook
What does the future look like for Occupational Therapist?
Occupational therapists are in great demand to work with the patients suffering with orthopaedic, neurological and psychological conditions. They can practice privately by opening their own clinic. Various government and NGO organisations also employ Occupational therapists. To meet the requirements of their patients, occupational therapists work a variety of shifts, including nights and weekends. They may work in an office setting or in a client's home, and they frequently travel from one location to another. The need for Occupational Therapists is expected to grow by 18 percent for the next several years, which is much faster than average. As baby boomers grow older, the need for therapy will rise.
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12th 
Science 
₹ 15,000 - 30,000 salary /month
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