An Occupational Therapist works with patients to create customized treatment plans that address physical, physiological and emotional issues. The goal is to provide people with the skills and support their need to live a comfortable and fulfilling life. Occupational Therapists can work with people in a range of circumstances, including addressing trauma, recovering from injuries, completing addiction treatment programs and those wishing to better themselves. Occupational Therapists use the latest therapeutic techniques to give patients the tools they need to do the things that are important to them. Typical duties of an Occupational Therapist include:

• Meet with clients and perform an assessment
• Discuss a patient's goals and what is challenging them
• Design a custom treatment plan using therapeutic techniques and exercise
• Supervise patients and step into to assist when necessary
• Work in an interdisciplinary context to establish intervention plans
• Re-assess progress and update patient treatments
• Remain in contact with other healthcare professionals

To become an occupational therapist, there are specific education and training requirements. Aspiring occupational therapists need to successfully earn a Master’s Degree in occupational therapy from an accredited university. Afterwards, they must pass the National Occupational Therapy Certification Exam (NOTCE) and complete a minimum of 1000 hours of training that is supervised by an accredited occupational therapist. After meeting these requirements, they must be accredited by the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists, while also checking for specific qualifications in their jurisdiction.

Occupational therapists are healthcare professionals, and can be hired by companies and organizations in the healthcare industry, An occupational therapist can also work freelance, establish their own practice and work for individual clients.

The career outlook for occupation therapists is positive. Wellness and well-being have become increasingly important to individuals who are willing to prioritize their health. As companies continue to expand and improve their health benefits packages, services offered by occupational therapists are frequently included, meaning that more individuals can access them.

An occupational therapist can work for healthcare clinics, hospitals and doctor’s offices, and in private commercial and residential spaces. They can work for private companies, in conjunction with hospitals or doctors, and for individual clients.

According to the CNP code (national classification of occupations), here are the additional titles for occupational therapists:

• Rehabilitation agent
• Rehabilitation researcher (with a doctorate)
• Living environment advisor
• Rehabilitation consultant
• Clinical occupational therapist
• Rehabilitation instructor
• Officer in biological sciences (occupational health) (Armed Forces)
• Teacher in guidance and mobility
• Specialist in orientation and mobility
• Functional rehabilitation therapist