Occupational Therapists

Job Summary:
The job of an Occupational therapist is to help people with disabilities (Physical, developmental or emotional) to live a life, which is independent and satisfying. They teach them to maintain work skills, help them recover etc. They make them understand that they can lead a normal life without fear.

They teach patients to cook, eat in a proper way, use a computer etc. In short they try to make them self-sufficient. People with physical disabilities are made to exercise and increase strength and for mental problems different techniques are used. Occupational therapists teach permanently disabled people to use wheel chairs etc. They help people with disabilities in getting jobs. The therapy is wonderful for aged people as well.

Occupational therapists should be very caring and record progress made by clients. They should evaluate clients and if needed speak to physicians for better health management. Occupational Therapists should be willing to work part time.

Qualification:
A bachelor's degree in occupational therapy is the basic requirement. To obtain a license therapists are required to pass a national certification examination. From the year 2007, a master's degree would be the basic requirement.

Salary Range:
Ranges from $40,000 to $80,000.

Prospects:
In the long run the prospects for Occupational therapists are good because of the growing number of aged and disabled people. Hospitals will hire many occupational therapists to treat patients in house.