HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical Canadian pathway starts in secondary school with strong courses in biology, psychology, health, English, and math, plus volunteering or part-time work in care, community, or recreation settings. After high school, students usually complete a university undergraduate degree in a related field and then enter a master’s-level occupational therapy program, though exact background requirements can vary by university. During study, supervised fieldwork or clinical placements are common. New graduates often begin in hospitals, schools, community agencies, or rehabilitation settings, and some employers may prefer experience with children, adults, or specific conditions.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Analyse clients' capabilities and expectations related to life activities through observation, interviews and formal assessments
- Develop intervention programs to address clients' needs related to self-care, work and leisure activities
- Maintain clients' records
- Establish personalized care plans working as a member of an interdisciplinary team
- Consult and advise on health promotion programs to prevent disabilities and to maximize independent function in all activities of life
- May supervise support personnel and students and provide training.
- Occupational therapists may specialize in working with specific populations such as children or adults, or persons with distinct problems such as dementia, traumatic brain injury and chronic pain, or provide special interventions such as return-to-work programs.
SKILLS TO BUILD
Skills used in this Career
Committee workEvidence-based practiceInternet useInterpersonal skillsLeadershipMultidisciplinary teamworkProgram DevelopmentProgram EvaluationResearchBusiness and Financial Management