For the past years, cases of common developmental problems in kids like autism and ADHD or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder have been increasing causing alarm to a lot of parents to watch out for the early signs so they can immediately ask for help in case their children experience developmental issues. However, new developmental problems are now also being studied which may affect kids’ growth and learning.

Common Behaviors As Sign Of Developmental Disorder

Specialists are now focusing on common behaviors that were actually considered normal before but are now starting to capture specialists’ attention like clumsiness, poor self-dressing, poor coordination, and weak communication skills. These behaviors are now being studied as a possible sign or symptoms of developmental disorders in kids.

Determining these common behaviors as signs or effects of a developmental disorder is quite difficult but doctors are advising parents to have their children checked in case their kids show these kinds of behavior to prevent the problem from getting worse. These behavioral patterns that are now being studied by specialists are said to make kids’ life difficult especially at school and even when making friends.

A lot of health institutions and healthcare professionals specializing in child development are now focusing their research and services on young children’s development due to the growing cases of kids with autism and ADHD. According to a recent study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in every 88 kids in the US has autism. Early detection is very important for this kind of development problem since according to specialists, the condition can still be reduced or treated if detected early on.

Specialists For Developmental Disorders

When it comes to children developmental problems, some of the most common specialists that handle these kinds of cases are occupational therapists, speech therapists, physical therapists and psychiatrists. According to the latest diagnostic bible which will be released by the psychiatrists through their Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders or the DSM-5, a lot of new childhood disorders were recently diagnosed such as new learning disorders, global developmental delay, and communication disorders.

If you think that your kid might be suffering from a learning or communication disorder, or simply shows behavioral patterns that are not normal for development, then you should have your kid checked by visiting an occupational therapist or a speech therapist for early detection and to prevent the condition from worsening.

Visiting an occupational therapist just for a check even if the kid is not diagnosed of any development disorder will provide great benefits since OT can also advise specific techniques in handling your kids and environmental modifications to prevent possible disorders that your kid might be highly at risk of. Prevention methods are definitely important and improving the surrounding of your kids at home or even at school is very essential in preventing developmental problems.

Before, parents would take a little time observing their kids behavior to determine if their kids are really suffering from developmental delays or disorders. However, because of the growing concern about children developmental disorders and increasing number of kids with developmental delays, more parents are now reporting and sending kids to occupational therapist offices or speech therapist offices for therapies and treatments.

Occupational Therapy Treatment For Kids With Pervasive Developmental Disorders

A recent study has been conducted by Ohio State University studying the effectiveness of occupational therapy in treating kids with PDD or pervasive developmental disorders. Children with pervasive developmental disorders have been increasing for years now but there are no empirical data or studies about the role and function of occupational therapists in treating developmental disorders in kids. This is why the university conducted a study in order to fully understand and investigate how occupational therapists handle children with PDD.

According to the study, a lot of occupational therapists have already been in schools and have handled a lot of children with pervasive developmental disorders. These occupational therapists provide direct occupational therapy care and service using a holistic approach which means that the parents and the school are all involved in the holistic treatment. Occupational therapists working in this work setting usually provide direct care to the kids then also recommend environmental modifications to make adjustment and life healthier and easier for them as well sensory integrations to effectively help the kids with developmental disorders.

Based on the study, occupational therapists revealed that a lot of kids with PDD showed positive results after the holistic approach especially after the sensory integration approach. Children with PDD who received direct treatment from occupational therapists showed improvements in terms of sensory integration, basic learning, and play skills.

Becoming An Occupational Therapist

A lot of people are now pursuing a career in occupational therapy not only because of the growing number of children with development problems but also because of the growing number of people from kids to adults with disabilities and other health conditions that need the help of occupational therapists.

Job outlook for occupational therapists is expected to increase 33% in the coming years plus this profession is also one of the highest paid in the healthcare industry making it a good career to pursue. To become an occupational therapist, a bachelor’s degree is essential in order to get admitted into an occupational graduate degree program which is equivalent to a master’s or doctorate degree depending on the kind of degree program the person choose.

Pursuing a graduate degree in occupational therapy through online education may be a good decision since online occupational therapy degree programs are usually more flexible compared to the conventional programs. Professionals who are already working or even moms who are staying at home and want to continue their education can now earn a master or doctorate degree in occupational therapy through these online programs.

With the great demand for occupational therapists plus the stable job and good pay, pursuing a career in occupational therapy will be a very good decision.

]]> http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/occupational-therapy/occupational-therapy-prevention-and-treatment-of-developmental-disorders-in-kids/feed/ 0 http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/occupational-therapy/occupational-therapy-specializing-in-ergonomics/ http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/occupational-therapy/occupational-therapy-specializing-in-ergonomics/#comments Thu, 21 Mar 2013 02:35:50 +0000 Janice http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/?p=1606 Occupational therapists play important role in the rehabilitation of patients suffering from disabilities, impairments and other health problems that affect their abilities to do things and function normally. Just like physical therapists, they are helping patients recover from injuries and disabilities. However, occupational therapists do not only help recover and improve mobility but more importantly, they help patients gain proper functioning and to find meaning and purpose in their life again despite suffering from disability or injury.

Just like in other healthcare professions, occupational therapy is also composed of various specialized fields allowing occupational therapists to specialize and focus on a specific field for training and career enhancement purposes. Earning a specialization in occupational therapy provides great advantage in terms of career opportunities, working conditions, salary level, and personal development. When it comes to occupational therapy specialization, one of the most in demand today is Ergonomics.

Occupational Therapy And Ergonomics

Ergonomics is very crucial especially in the workplace because it is the science, which studies and helps improve the work environment to achieve a safer, healthier, and efficient workplace for the workers. It is important to create a workplace that suits the workers’ capabilities and functions to minimize risks and accidents.

Aside from these benefits, ergonomics can also increase workers’ productivity and quality of work. With the ergonomic principles and recommendations from occupational therapists, employers and managers can implement a specific program and guidelines that workers should follow to promote better work efficiency, minimize risk of accidents and injuries, and to promote faster recovery in case a worker is already suffering from a work-related injury.

What Occupational Therapists Specializing In Ergonomics Do?

Occupational therapists focusing on ergonomics can work in various businesses and companies providing consultation or as an in-house OT working for the business’ risk management department. They have a lot of functions like:

• Occupational therapists specializing in ergonomic identify accidents and injury risk factors present in the workplace.
• After identifying the risk factors, they device a risk management plan to eliminate or reduce risk factors such as poor lighting, carrying of heavy loads, noise, risky machines and equipments used in the workplace, poor posture, extreme temperatures, and other types of occupational stresses.
• Occupational therapists also analyze and determine job functions based on job tasks or roles.
• They may also be involved during the hiring process helping the company in determining the applicants suitable for the specific job tasks.
• Recommend modifications and improvements in the equipments and tools used in the workplace to prevent injuries and accidents.
• Occupational therapists specializing in ergonomics also provide training and education programs for the workers or the whole company about risk management, injury prevention methods, safety regulations, workplace health, and proper management of job-related stress.
• They can also be involved at the very beginning of the business so business owners will not have to do certain modifications and improvements if the workplace was built and designed in compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act from the start.
• OT with ergonomics specialty may recommend and propose changes in the workplace and the general working condition of employees to promote a healthier and more satisfying work for everyone.

Work Settings For Occupational Therapists With Ergonomics Specialization

Occupational therapists can work in a lot of settings and industries due to the wide application of their knowledge and expertise. However, occupational therapists with advanced training and specialization in a specific area like ergonomics can be more preferred by employers and companies and they can also receive higher income than the pay received by general occupational therapists.

Occupational therapists specializing in ergonomics can work in these common work settings:

• Industrial workplaces
• Corporate work settings
• Construction sites
• Private offices and clinics
• Public institutions
• Academic institutions
• Hospitals and other health institutions

How To Become An Occupational Therapist Specializing In Ergonomics

The first step to become an occupational therapist is to finish a bachelor’s degree in health-related field then earn a graduate degree in occupational therapy. Traditional educational path would take about 4 years of bachelor’s degree schooling and another 2 to 3 years for the completion of the master’s degree in occupational therapy degree.

However, some schools nowadays offer a more customized degree program designed for the specific needs and preferences of students. Some schools offer dual programs wherein students can finish their bachelor’s degree in a shorter span of time then automatically proceed to the graduate program and complete the graduate program for a shorter time as well. These kinds of degree programs usually require 5 years of study compared to the conventional route, which will take 6 to 7 years for completion.

Best Schools And Occupational Therapy Programs In The US

According to the US News Rankings And Reviews, some of the top occupational therapy schools in 2012 are:

1. University of Southern California in Los Angeles
2. Boston University (Sargent)
3. Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri
4. University of Illinois in Chicago
5. University of Kansas Medical Center

Accredited Online Occupational Therapy Graduate Programs

According to the ACOTE or AOTA’s Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education’s Annual Data Report for 2010/2011, there are no accredited occupational therapy programs that are offered fully through online or distance learning. However, there are accredited occupational therapy programs that offer half or some part of their programs through online learning.

Based on the Annual Data Report, accredited occupational therapy graduate programs with some courses offered online are:

1. University of Oklahoma in Oklahoma City which offers an occupational therapy master’s degree program with 90% online courses
2. University of Minnesota in Minneapolis offering occupational therapy master’s degree program with 70% to 80% online courses
3. Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia with 60% to 70% of the courses offered online.
4. Concordia University in Mequon, Wisconsin offering occupational therapy programs with 50% to 60% of the courses offered online.
5. University of Tennessee in Memphis with 50% to 60% of the courses in occupational therapy degree programs offered online or through distance learning.

Pursuing a career in occupational therapy can be a great decision since employment growth is expected to increase about 33% for the next 10 years according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Aside from the great job opportunities, professions in occupational therapy are also stable and offer some of the highest salaries in the industry.

According to the US BLS, the median pay of occupational therapists employed in the country is around $72,300 per year with the highest 10% earning as much as $102,000 or higher every year.

Physical therapy focuses on helping patients recover from injury related problems or from disabilities, and improve specific aspects like range of motion, flexibility, and mobility. Occupational therapy also aims to provide these services but occupational therapists make sure that the recovery allows patients to return to normal functioning especially in performing work related and basic everyday tasks like eating, bathing, walking, and more. Occupational therapy, in general, does not only help people recover from disabilities but it generally helps patients improve their functioning and overall quality of life.

How To Become An Occupational Therapist?

To become an occupational therapist, a person must first earn a bachelor’s degree in a specific field that can qualify for occupational therapy degree program later on. Most states require occupational therapists to earn at least a master’s degree or even higher in occupational therapy education. After finishing the occupational therapy degree program, aspiring OT are then required to finish a residency program, which usually lasts for 1 year or more depending on the state you are planning to get employed than pass the licensure for aspiring occupational therapists.

Once all these requirements are accomplished, an occupational therapist can now finally work as a licensed and certified OT in various states or countries. Basic education path to become an occupational therapist usually involve 4 years of bachelor degree then additional 2 to 3 years of master’s degree.

With the greater demand for occupational therapists today, more schools are now offering advanced and accelerated course programs so aspiring OTs can finish the education requirements in a shorter span of time while still earning all the necessary education and training provided in traditional degree programs.

Combined Bachelors And Masters Degree Programs In Occupational Therapy

Combined bachelors and masters degree programs in occupational therapy allow aspiring students to finish the occupational therapy education requirements within a shorter period than taking the conventional education path. Instead of at least 6 years of study, students taking a combined or dual degree program can be able to earn their master’s degree in occupational therapy within 5 years.

These combined degree programs require full time study due to the fast track education system. The bachelor’s level in dual programs can generally be completed within 3 to 4 years while the master’s program can then be completed within a year or 2 depending on the education system followed by the school.

If you are planning to pursue a career in occupational therapy and want to take this accelerated degree, then here are some of the best accredited occupational therapy schools offering dual programs.

Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University offers seasoned education programs in occupational therapy, which was established in 1941. They offer a 3+2 degree program, which means that students can complete the undergraduate degree within 3 years and the master’s degree within 2 years. However, not all students can continue to the master’s program since students must still pass the necessary requirements and qualifications required to qualify for the master’s degree.

Students who want to proceed to the master’s degree must first earn a minimum GPA of 2.75, satisfying grades in core classes, minimum volunteer work of 80 hours, and must prove to be an upstanding student. After graduating, students will have both earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in occupational therapy.

University Of Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin in La Crosse County, Wisconsin offers new dual programs for students who want accelerated programs in healthcare professions like occupational therapy. The dual program in occupational therapy was founded in 2005 and offers a 3-year bachelor’s degree plus 2 and a half year of master’s degree in occupational therapy. Just like in other dual programs, University of Wisconsin also does not automatically grant admission to the master’s program after finishing the bachelor’s degree.

Students must first perform well during the undergraduate level and prove that they are qualified for the master’s program. After completing the programs, graduates will hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology then a master’s degree in occupational therapy.

University Of Southern California

If you want bachelors and master’s degrees both in occupational therapy, then the dual accelerated program in occupational therapy offered by the University of Southern California will be a good option. The university offers a 3-year bachelor’s degree then an additional 2 years for the master’s degree. After finishing the combined program, graduates will hold a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in occupational degree.

Easter Washington University

Just like in other universities, offer combined degree programs in occupational therapy Easter Washington University also offers dual degree in occupational therapy using the 3+2 system. However, students completing the program will earn a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies then a master’s degree in occupational therapy. Students are required to study full-time in order to complete the accelerated program within the given time frame.

Philadelphia University

Philadelphia University also offers dual programs in occupational therapy. This is one of the few universities in the United States that allow students to choose the undergraduate major of their own choice such as psychology or health science. To qualify for the master’s program in occupational therapy, students must first earn a minimum GPA of 3 or higher. Students completing the program will earn a bachelor’s degree in their chosen field within 3 years then the master’s degree within 2 years.

Specializations In Occupational Therapy

Just like in other healthcare professions, occupational therapy is also composed of sub-disciplines and specialties. Taking a specialization provides professionals advantages in terms of employment opportunities and salaries. Having a specialization in occupational therapy usually provides healthcare professionals higher-than-average salaries and also makes them more preferable by prospective employers.

When taking master’s program, you can also choose to take a specialization especially during your residency program depending on your preference and interest. Specializations in occupational therapy are pediatric, geriatric, cognitive disabilities, mental health, physical disabilities, low vision rehabilitation, and lifestyle redesign.

]]> http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/occupational-therapy-schools/top-5-schools-offering-combined-bachelors-and-masters-degree-in-occupational-therapy/feed/ 0 http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/occupational-therapy-schools/top-5-occupational-therapy-schools-in-massachusetts/ http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/occupational-therapy-schools/top-5-occupational-therapy-schools-in-massachusetts/#comments Sun, 03 Mar 2013 09:44:51 +0000 Janice http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/?p=1563 Occupational therapists provide important healthcare services to patients with disabilities and health problems. Occupational therapy services usually overlap with physical therapy care but occupational therapy does not only focus on helping patients recover from the disability problem but occupational therapists also help patients relearn common daily tasks and to help them become more capable and independent

Occupational therapists will not only help you move again, stand, or walk but they will help you in learning basic tasks like writing your name, dressing up, or even going and buying to a grocery store. The main focus of occupational therapy is to help patients live as normal people as much as possible especially those who are losing their reasons to live. This is why this job also greatly requires compassion, dedication, and determination in order to become an effective and good occupational therapist.

Becoming an occupational therapist will not only provide you the chance to help people but will also provide good income since occupational therapy professions are some of the well-paying jobs in the healthcare industry. According to the US BLS, occupational therapists in the country earn annual average income of $73,820.

If you are one of those aspiring occupational therapists, then you should invest properly on your education. With the tough job market condition, graduating from a prestigious school or university with high-quality education programs will definitely give you an edge when it comes to employment opportunities in the future. If you want to study occupational therapy in Massachusetts, then here are some of the top schools and programs available in the state.

No. 1 – Boston University

Boston University College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College offers one of the best occupational therapy programs in the country. It is ranked no. 2 by the US News in the whole country and top 1 in the state of Massachusetts. Programs offered are MSOT or Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Online Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy, and Doctor of Science in Rehabilitation Sciences.

Admission Requirements For The MSOT Program

• The school utilize the Occupational Therapy Centralized Application Service or OTCAS so applicants must send all application requirements and documents directly to this organization.
• Applicants must complete the prerequisite courses for the program.
• Complete official transcripts and cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
• GRE score taken within 5 years. 500 plus on verbal, 500 plus on quantitative, and 4.5 plus on analytical writing.
• 2 essays
• 3 letters of recommendation

No. 2 – Tufts University-Boston School of Occupational Therapy

Tufts University Boston School of Occupational Therapy is ranked 6 in the best occupational therapy programs in the whole country and second in the state of Massachusetts. The school offers an entry-level master’s degree program for those who have not yet earned their bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy. There is also a post-professional master’s degree for those who already have a bachelor’s degree and a doctoral degree program for students with master’s degree in occupational therapy.

Admission Requirements For The Entry-Level Masters Degree Program

• This is a full time education program offered to students who already have a non occupational therapy degree program.
•  Applicants must also complete the 5 prerequisite courses which include 2 courses in social sciences, 2 courses in biology, and 1 in introductory statistics.
• Courses must be earned from an accredited institution.
• Applicants must achieve a minimum grade of B- or higher for all prerequisite courses.

Springfield College

Springfield College is also one of the best occupational therapy schools in the country and ranked 3^rd for the state of Massachusetts. Springfield College Occupational Therapy Department offers 2 types of Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Programs. One is the HSOT program or the Health Science Occupational Therapy and the ELM program or the Entry Level Master’s program.

HSOT program requires 5 and half years of study for students with no prior degrees and want to receive a master’s degree in occupational therapy. The ELM program requires 28 months of study and training offered for students who already have a bachelor’s degree. All entry level masters programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education.

Admission Requirements For The Entry Level Masters Program

• The school does not require GRE scores but if you have taken the exam, you can include it on your application
• Official transcript records
• Letter of recommendation
• Completed prerequisite courses including social sciences, physical sciences, English composition, and intro to statistics.

Worcester State University

Worcester State University is ranked 4^th in the best occupational therapy schools in Massachusetts offering a Master of Occupational Therapy program for aspiring OTs.

Admission Requirements

• Official transcripts and GPA score.
• 2 letters of recommendation
• GRE score, MAT score, and GMAT score
• TOEFL score for foreign students
• Tuition Residency Statement
• Completed prerequisite courses

Bay Path College

Bay Path College or formerly the American Women’s College offers Master of Occupational Therapy program for individuals who already have a degree but not in occupational therapy and wants to pursue a career in this health care field. Completion of the entry-level master’s program will qualify students for the NBCOT or the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, in order to become  licensed and registered Occupational Therapists.

Admission Requirements

• Applicants must have a bachelors degree from an accredited institution.
• GPA score of 3.0 or above
• Prerequisite courses which include 2 courses in anatomy and physiology, and 1 in statistics, sociology, anthropology, human development, and culture
• Prerequisite grades of B- or higher
• 1 essay
• 2 letters of recommendation
• Resume and application fee

Aside from these 5 occupational therapy schools, there is another one school that entered the top occupational therapy school list of US News which is also located in the state of Massachusetts, the American International College. Enrolling and graduating from one of these quality schools will provide you the best education foundation and training for future employment. Choosing the best school and passing the licensure exam will also boost your career opportunities especially when applying for a job in top health care facilities and institutions.

]]> http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/occupational-therapy-schools/top-5-occupational-therapy-schools-in-massachusetts/feed/ 0 http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/career-info/income-data-and-top-paying-cities-for-occupational-therapists/ http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/career-info/income-data-and-top-paying-cities-for-occupational-therapists/#comments Thu, 28 Feb 2013 07:44:12 +0000 Janice http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/?p=1553 Occupational therapists play very important role in the recovery of patients from various disabling conditions or diseases. A lot of people nowadays suffer from disability problems affecting the capability to work and do basic functions every day. Occupational therapy is one of the main healthcare professions that help patients recover from these conditions as well as help them feel and become more capable.

With the increasing cases of patients of disabilities and disabling illnesses, and the growing population of aging baby boomers, more and more healthcare professionals focusing on rehabilitation and disability care like occupational therapists and physical therapists will be needed. Entering this profession will be a good choice not only for the good job opportunities but also for the good salary and the fulfillment of being able to help people who are in need.

Salary Scale And Outlook For Occupational Therapists

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual income of occupational therapists employed in the country is around $73,820 for the year 2011. The highest paid 10% of occupational therapists earn annual income of approximately $104,350 while the lowest 10% earners earn average income of about $49,980. Hourly, occupational therapists receive an hourly wage of $35.39. The highest 10% earners earn an income of $50.00 per hour while the lower 10% receive about $24.03 per hour.

The income level of occupational therapists is one of the highest in the healthcare industry next to the salaries of physical therapists and higher than that of registered nurses. Future and aspiring occupational therapists can expect better job opportunities in the future with the 33% projected employment growth for occupational therapists from year 2010 to 2020. The employment growth will lead to about 145,200 job openings for occupational therapy professions.

Cities Offering Highest Salaries For Occupational Therapists

1. Elizabethtown, Kentucky

According to the BLS report, registered occupational therapists working in the city of Elizabethtown in Kentucky earn an annual mean wage of $98,920, which is $25,100 higher than the average annual income of all occupational therapists employed in the country. OTs in Elizabethtown can earn an hourly mean wage of approximately $47.56.

2. Las Vegas Paradise, Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada is not only one of the top paying cities when it comes to physical therapy professions but this flourishing city is also the second highest paying metropolitan area for occupational therapy professions. Registered occupational therapists employed in this area earn an annual mean wage of $97,450 or $23,630 higher than the average annual income level for OT professionals in the whole country. OTs in Las Vegas earns an hourly wage of $46.85.

3. Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

With an annual mean wage of $95,290, the city of Coeur d’Alene in Idaho is the third highest paying cities for occupational therapists in the whole country. Occupational therapists working in this area can earn $21,470 more than the average income of OTs in other places. The hourly mean wage offered in Coeur d’Alene is about $45.81.

4. Beaumont-Port Arthur, Texas

Beaumont Port Arthur metropolitan area in the state of Texas is the 4^th highest paying cities for occupational therapists offering an annual mean wage of $93,240 or about $44.83 hourly mean wage. The salary offered in the city is approximately $19,420 higher than the overall OT average income.

5. Stockton, California

Registered occupational therapists employed in Stockton City, California receive annual mean wage of approximately $93,050, an income $19,230 higher than the annual average income for all OTs working in the country. Occupational therapists can earn an hourly wage of $44.74.

6. Dallas Plano Irving, Texas Metropolitan Division

Occupational therapists working in Dallas-Plano-Irving metropolitan area in Texas can earn an annual mean wage of $92,340 which is $18,520 higher than the annual average income for OTs for the whole country. The hourly mean wage offered in this area is about $44.40.

7. San Francisco San Mateo Redwood City California Metropolitan Division

The annual mean wage offered in this city for occupational therapists is $90,770, still higher than the annual average income of occupational therapists with an hourly mean wage rate of $43.64.

8. Amarillo, Texas

Cities in Texas are not only some of the highest paying cities for physical therapists but also for occupational therapy professions. OTs working in Amarillo City in Texas earns an annual mean wage of $90,770 with an hourly mean wage of $43.64. That is about $16,950 higher than the annual average income.

9. Visalia Porteville, California

A lot of metropolitan areas in the state of California offer high salaries of occupational therapists including the metro area of Visalia Porteville where occupational therapists receive an annual mean wage of $90,140, which is about $16,320 higher than the overall annual average income.

10. Salinas, California

Another high-paying city in California for occupational therapists is the city of Salinas where occupational therapists earn an annual mean wage of $89,710, about $15,890 higher than the overall average income of OTs in the country. The hourly mean wage offered for OTs is $43.13.

Top Paying States And Industries For Occupational Therapists

When it comes to top paying states in general, the state of Nevada tops the list. According to the US BLS report, occupational therapists working in the state of Nevada earn an annual mean wage of $94,800 a figure $20,980 higher than the overall annual average income for all OTs working in the country. Next is the District of Columbia with an annual mean wage of $85,120.

Other top paying states in the country for occupational therapists are the states of Texas, California, and New Jersey. Getting a job from these cities and states will definitely provide you higher income opportunities especially occupational therapy jobs in the home health care services industry.

When it comes to high paying industries, the home health care services tops the list, which is only 3^rd when it comes to physical therapy professions. Registered occupational therapists can also earn higher salaries in the employment services industry, nursing care facilities, and the community care facilities for the elderly. Benefits and incentives may vary from company to company, or employer and company size but most occupational therapy jobs come with a benefit package worth $20,000 or more per year.

Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistant are those that involve themselves in the rehabilitation of patients.  Usually, these patients are those that have disabling conditions physically, mentally, emotionally or developmentally.  This means that the patients are taught and guided by the OTs and OTAs to be able to go about with their daily lives without depending too much on other people.  They are given the ability to live their lives independently and going about what could have been normal tasks on their own.

Occupational therapists are more focused on the evaluation of each patient and what their individual treatment program should be.  Occupational therapy assistants on the other hand work around the office in prepping the clinic, recording patient’s progress and other administrative tasks.  OTAs are under the supervision of the OT and waits on what the instructions of the OT.

Necessary Preparation Before Entering College

To prepare extensively on the college course of OT and OTA, it is best to decide early to pursue such career.  During high school, an aspiring OT and OTA are already determined to follow this health worker’s path.  Also during these years, those who want to become an OT or OTA is suggested to get more subjects related on this type of health science.  Doing so will ensure that the basics of the course is already known and help in finding out if the career is the right one.  Aiming for the top scores will also boost the credentials when the time comes for applying in these schools.

Learning is best done when classroom lessons are coupled with outside teachings as well.  Do not just rely on the additional subjects about OT and OTA but rather, read or watch documentaries about the life of this health profession.  This can be done through visiting the local library or using the internet for research purposes.

In the weekends or summer breaks, it is recommended to volunteer or get a summer job under a practicing occupational therapist.  This will provide an actual environment of what the job is all about.  The good side and the not so good in this work in order to assess if such career can be the future life.  Read as well about the colleges or universities that offer the course with accredited program by the ACOTE or Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education.

Essential Skills Of Being An OT And OTA

For those who are inclined to become occupational therapists, there are essential skills that are required to be a good one.  Occupational therapists should have the patients, flexibility as well as creativity to work well with any patient.  These therapists are able to handle well any personality of patients especially those under extreme stress in their less appealing situations.  Positive energy is what should be a dominant characteristic when working in this healthcare position to encourage patients.  Occupational therapists must have the high interest in being with people and providing understanding as well care for their conditions.  Physically, the OTs and OTAs must be strong as they may need to carry patients and can withstand long hours of standing.

Educational Requirements To Become An OT And OTA

After all the evaluation and determined to follow the footsteps of an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant, choose the school for you.  In the state of Alabama there are four schools that have accredited occupational therapy programs while only one school with accredited occupational therapy assistant program.  Among those offering the occupation therapy program are University of Alabama at Birmingham, Alabama State University, University of South Alabama and Tuskegee University.  Wallace State Community College Hanceville is the school for those looking into the occupational therapy assistant program.

To practice as occupational therapists, it is necessary to at least obtain a masters degree in this course.  A bachelor’s degree may not have to be on occupational therapy but is related to the degree such as sociology, biology, psychology, anatomy and many others.  The masters program then pursued will be of occupational therapy.  Occupational therapists need to pass a licensure exam to practice in their profession.

For occupational therapy assistants, an associate degree has to be accomplished.  This program runs for two years and typically combines classroom and clinical fieldwork.  Be sure to check if the school in Alabama that you pick is accredited by ACOTE.  After the associate degree is completed, a licensure test will also be taken to practice in the field with the occupational therapists.

Job Opportunities Of An OT And OTA

There are many places occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants can work but most are employed in the hospitals under the rehabilitation department.  There are those who also work in offices or private clinics of health professionals.  Occupational therapy assistants may be assigned to work with the occupational therapists’ offices.  Then occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants can also be found in nursing homes as well as schools and home health care agencies.

Salary And Work Environment Of An OT And OTA

Occupational therapists have an average income of $73,820 per annum.  The range of the salaries is from $49,980 to $104,350.  It is observed that those who work in the big cities are more inclined to receive a higher pay.  Those also with acquisition of more postgraduate programs are able to advance in their careers as occupational therapists and have more job opportunities in the field.

Occupational therapy assistants are able to receive a median salary at $47,490 per year or $22.83 an hour.  The range of the income of the OTAs is between $41,289 and $59,774.  Occupational therapy assistants can continue and become occupational therapists when obtaining the necessary educational credits.  This can be done through going to school traditionally or by enrolling in accredited online schools that offer the OTA to OT program.

The work environment of a clinic where the OTs and OTAs practice their profession is sterile.  Equipment is of the latest technology to be able to provide the best care for the patients.  Most see that healthcare professionals are working around the clock, seven days a week but the OTs and OTAs have regular working hours.  They have the opportunity to travel when they work in home patients or enjoy summers when they work in schools.

The demand for occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants is high in our present society.  OTs and OTAs are quite satisfied with their careers since they are able to help many patients to become functional again no matter their situation.  If you have the characters mentioned above, then you can easily become an OT or OTA in Alabama finishing at the top schools in the state.

]]> http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/education/how-to-get-into-the-best-ot-and-ota-schools-in-alabama/feed/ 0 http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/occupational-therapy/work-areas-for-occupational-therapists/ http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/occupational-therapy/work-areas-for-occupational-therapists/#comments Tue, 19 Feb 2013 09:23:18 +0000 Janice http://occupationaltherapyschoolsite.com/?p=1523 A lot of health conditions like mental and disability problems are now affecting various people of different ages. Some are incurred because of accidents, injuries, and illnesses, while some are acquired at birth. Because of these health problems, a lot of disciplines have been developed in order to provide the right medical attention for patients. When it comes to injuries and disability problems, some of the common solutions that come to mind are physical therapy and occupational therapy. These two are the same in many ways but they are totally different in terms of the type of conditions they handle and the kind of treatments they provide.

Occupational therapy is becoming a common health care for people of various ages today because it provides a holistic health care to people suffering from a particular health condition, injury or disability. Through this natural treatment, health is effectively promoted by restoring and developing the basic skills of the patient especially daily living skills and work functioning.

Functions and Duties of Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapists or more commonly called as OT aim and helps a patient to recover from injuries and disabilities, and develop and improve basic skills and body functioning needed to survive. Just like physicians and physical therapists, they also review their patient’s medical records and history, conduct interview and sessions, and observe their patients while doing some tasks and activities. Through the observation and medical history, they make evaluations on the condition and needs of the patient.

After determining the needs and health condition of the patient, they can now make a treatment plan specially tailored to match the patient’s health care needs and condition. They can help old patients, young adults, or even children with mental and physical disabilities. Some of the most common problems they handle are poor memory or mild mental problem especially in older people and autism especially in young ones. They also provide basic therapeutic treatments and exercise routines to naturally relieve pain like joint stretches for people suffering from arthritis or other types of chronic condition.

Depending on their roles or the industry they work in, some occupational therapists may work in a team in providing health care and treatment for patients like physicians, physical therapists, sports physical therapists, speech therapists, and audiologists.

Different Work Areas and Industries for OT

Occupational therapy is a very broad discipline covering a wide range of health care practices and treatments for so many types of health issues faced by people today. This is why occupational therapists also get to work in diverse settings depending on their preference, training, and specialization. Some of the most common work areas where OTs can work are:

• Home and the Community – Work areas in this category include home care facilities, community action groups, vocational programs, clinics, community mental health centers, health boards or agencies, and private health institutions established to help communities.
• Health Care Institutions – Work settings under this category include short term and long term care facilities, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, mental health centers, nursing homes, recreation centers, and correctional institutions.
• Academic Institutions – Schools, colleges, universities, and various academic research centers.
• Federal Government – A lot of occupational therapists work in various government institutions or agencies in their vocational or health planning programs, disability prevention and management programs, health promotion activities, and international rehabilitation programs and developments.
• Business or Commercial Industries – Work areas in the business field where occupational therapists can work include rehabilitation companies, corporations, insurance companies, and even architectural companies or firms.

Most Common Work Environment

According to the report made by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2010, there are already 108,800 jobs held by OTs in year 2010. 48% of the total occupational therapists working in the country are employed in offices or centers established by a group of occupational therapists, speech therapists, physical therapists, and audiologists. Next highest percentage goes to hospitals including local, private and state hospitals wherein 27% of the total occupational therapists work in these work areas.

9% from the total population of professional and licensed OTs are employed in nursing care facilities while 7% work for home health care services. The remaining 3% work for private and family services, individual patients, and other work settings. It is common for OTs to work in various work settings at the same time taking part time jobs in various areas because of the great demand for their work.

Salary Levels In Various Work Settings

According to the same report released by the US BLS, the median salary of occupational therapists is $73,320 every year. This figure can be considered as high income especially in the health care industry. Lowest 10% earners receive salaries ranging from $45,000 to $50,000 while the highest 10% earners receive an annual average income ranging from $100,000 to $105,000.

The salary earned by occupational therapists working in the home health care services is the highest – starting from $79,500 and higher. Nursing care facilities and institutions also offer high salaries for licensed and well-experienced occupational therapists with the median pay of $78,410. As mentioned above, most OTs work in various occupational, physical and speech therapy offices or clinics. However, this industry only pays the 3^rd highest salary ranging from 73,000 to 77,000 every year. Hospitals, family services, and private care services offer annual average income for occupational therapists ranging from 64,000 to $72,000 annually.

Job Opportunities And Outlook

The employment opportunity for occupational therapists is projected to grow 33% from year 2010 to 2020.  This growth is higher compared to the average increase in other occupations in various industries making this career a good option for those looking for a good, well-paying, and stable career in the health care industry. With the increasing population and the increasing number of people with health care needs especially mentally challenged and disabled patients, the need for occupational therapists will be also significantly more in demand in the coming years.

The increasing number of aging baby boomers is also a big factor in the growth for employment for OTs. Aside from being widely in demand and one of the highest paid professions in the industry, this profession also very fulfilling and rewarding because OTs get to help people and improve their lives by improving their basic skills and body functions.

Occupational therapists can treat any patient from young to old. They can treat infants, children, teenagers, adults and elderly. Occupational therapists can also treat different conditions that affect a particular situation in a patient’s life. Here, you will know more about the three practice areas namely children and youth, health and wellness and productive aging. If you want to pursue an OT practice area, this will help you had better understand what you would learn from each.

Children And Youth

This occupational therapy practice area focuses on infants, children and young adults. There are different emerging areas that you will have to study and learn. These topics are very important in improving the lives of children today.

One of the emerging areas in OT practice area Children and Youth is the broader scope of school. Occupational therapists are helping children through assisting schools with scientific-based research. What is this for? It helps schools to address different learning disorders of children. In addition, it will help schools tackle real-life children issues like school safety, social issues and mental health of students. This aims to give equal opportunity to the regular and disabled students.

Autism is another practice area you will work on. 1 out of 110 kids are autistic and having this illness can really affect a child’s life. Insurance companies are now covering occupational therapy treatments for autistic kids. Occupational therapists work to help the autistic patient gain some form of independence while also identifying causes and prevention methods.

Bullying is a social problem, which affects how a child sees school and his surroundings. On top of that, cyber bullying is getting worse too. This affects 1 out of 5 children from 10-18 years. Bullying greatly affects a child’s mental and emotional health and this should be a concern. Occupational therapists can help children who are being bullied and how to prevent them from being bullied in the future.

Obesity is a problem for both children and adults in the US. However, it is best to start treating obesity during the younger years. Obese children not only have physical problems but their emotions can be affected to. Thus, occupational therapy aims to help children who are obese, help them lose weight and also help in the prevention of gaining too much weight in the future.

Teen Driving With Disability tackles the problem of allowing disabled teenagers to drive if they can do so. As long as their driving skills past the driving test, they should be allowed to drive. However, a disability can really affect how a teenager can drive safely. An occupational therapist will help the teenager to acquire the needed skills to be able to drive on public streets safely.

Transitioning is an important area that occupational therapists have to learn. Children with disabilities are always treated specially but this cannot last forever. Parents and occupational therapists work together to help the child in transitioning to a better phase of life. This means that the child will have to be more independent in performing daily tasks.

Health And Wellness

The Health and Wellness occupational therapy practice area involves providing the best healthcare services to all individuals who need it. This OT practice area has grown in importance and significance the past years. This is a practice area concerned with the health and wellness of society in general. Occupational therapists believe that everyone deserves a healthy body despite busy schedules. Sickness and diseases are always around the corner and occupational therapists are working with the government to prevent the spread of these diseases.

Chronic Disease Management is for people suffering from chronic conditions. The aging population is mostly affected with this. The government is spending huge money for people with chronic diseases but the economy will not hold up. It is best that people will know how to manage their chronic diseases with the help of occupational therapists. The government helps occupational therapists in this endeavor by passing a legislation to fund the prevention of illnesses and promotion of health to people with chronic diseases.

Just like with children, obesity is a huge problem when it comes to health and wellness. Obesity is caused by overeating, poor diet and eating junk foods. Such health condition leads to high blood pressure and heart diseases. Occupational therapists are working hard to educate the public about the negative effects of obesity and how to lose weight. Increasing the public’s awareness will be helpful in promoting health and wellness among the obese.

Prevention is an important part of health and wellness. When promoting health, the cure is not the answer. Prevention is always better than cure which is why the government and occupational therapists are working hard to prevent illnesses and diseases from spreading. Further, occupational therapists do their share of educating patients about disease prevention too.

Productive Aging Area

It is no surprise that the aging population is increasing. This is causing the huge demand for healthcare services today. Seniors start to lose independence, as their bodies grow weaker. As a result, seniors are more prone to sickness and illness as well as injuries. Because of this, more nurses and occupational therapists are needed to help improve their quality of life. The goal of this practice area is to help seniors still become functional parts of society.

Community Mobility and Older Drivers are an issue among the aging population. The general public is concerned in allowing elders to drive. However, there is really no need to ban elders from driving in public streets as long as they are still capable to do so. Occupational therapists can help in maintaining their ability to drive.

Aging In Place and Home Modifications is about providing quality long-term care services at home. Since seniors feel more comfortable and safe at home, occupational therapists can perform home modifications to suit the new lifestyle. Most importantly, the homes should be safe for seniors to live in.

Low Vision among seniors is a common issue. 18% of the elderly population is suffering from low vision. Having low vision can greatly affect how a senior can perform daily tasks. The role of an occupational therapist is to help senior patients address this issue to be capable of functioning properly every day.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia are common diseases to the seniors. 5.3 million Americans have Alzheimer’s Disease. Occupational therapists work to improve the patient’s quality of life and are also working to look for preventative measures.

Occupational therapy is a broad field of medicine that encompasses different practice areas. These occupational practice areas aim to solve modern society problems that involve the health and wellness of individuals. If you are planning to pursue higher education, you can choose from the OT practice areas discussed below.

Work And Industry

Contrary to what many believe, occupational therapists do not just work in healthcare settings. They also work to improve the working condition and environment of individuals. Since people stay most of the day at the workplace, it must be safe and conducive. Occupational therapists help in identifying possible safety area problems and improve safety measures in the workplace.

The first focus is the Aging Workforce.  The aging population has reached retirement age but not all of them want to retire right away. One of the reasons is that seniors still need money for the family. Another reason is that the seniors gain a sense of independence if they continue working. In the US, old work groups continue to rise and even 75-year-old seniors still want to work.

The ultimate problem is that the aging population will have more chances of making errors and mistakes that can be costly to the company. As the body is weaker and more sensitive, there are limited skills that a senior can do. There will be low vision, slower response, slower reaction, lesser dexterity and even poor hearing. While employers cannot just fire seniors from work, it is best that occupational therapists help in improving such situation. This emerging practice area enables occupational therapists to help employers improve the workplace by making it more ergonomic for the senior workers.

The other focus of this OT practice area is New Technology At Work. Technology is very important in the workplace since it can help in the efficient and fast completion of tasks and processes. Occupational therapy can help employers determine that right type of technology to be used within the workplace. This technology should be beneficial for the company yet will not pose any safety hazards to the employees using it. Further, occupational therapists will assist disabled employees to be able to work in highly advanced work settings.

Mental Health

The Mental Health practice area is being given a lot of attention today. More and more children are being born with mental disabilities and it does not go away when the child grows up. A mental disability affects the whole body, which means that the child will not be able to function properly for the rest of his or her life. Occupational therapists are working hard to help children with mental disabilities to assist them on how they can live a normal life. Moreover, occupational therapists are helping adults with mental problems too.

Depression is a mental health problem that affects 1 in 4 American adults. Depression can be due to an eating or bipolar disorder. Anti-depressants are advertised to be treatment for depression but this does is just temporary treatment. Occupational therapy digs deep and go to the roots of the problem. An occupational therapist will evaluate the causes of the depression and how the depression can be treated.

Recovery and Peer Support Model is about creating a support group for people with mental problems. Often, mental problems happen between the ages of 18 and 25. Occupational therapists believe that people in this age bracket will be better helped with a recovery and peer support group. Sharing experiences together will make them feel more supported and accepted. This helps in the recovery of people with mental problems.

Sensory Approaches to Mental Health is a new way to treat mentally ill patients. Back in the days, the mentally ill were restrained and secluded. Occupational therapists do not believe in these methods at all. In fact, seclusion and restrains lead to high death rates among patients that are mentally ill. Thus, occupational therapists are working on a new approach called sensory approach. They believe that this will be better in treating the mentally ill.

Veterans’ and Wounded Warriors’ Mental Health is an emerging area that is focused on ex-soldiers who are currently suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Soldiers are prone to this disorder due to their experience in fighting wars. Occupational therapists are helping these soldiers get pass the trauma and stress so they can continue living fulfilling lives.

Rehabilitation, Disability, and Participation

Occupational therapy is known for its holistic treatment approach. This occupational therapy practice area deals with the disability, its rehabilitation, and how to help patients participate in society after rehabilitation.

Autism In Adults is a growing concern in the US According to the American Psychiatric Association, there are 300,000 adults aged 22 years who are suffering from autism. Autistic adults need the same guidance as autistic children. Transitioning after high school will be very hard for them. Occupational therapists help these patients to gain independence so they can participate in society more.

Cancer Care and Oncology is focused on cancer patients that have survived the disease. These people will need maintenance and post-care treatments like palliative care and lymphedema therapy. Occupational therapists work with cancer patients to get their lives back. The cancer treatments can really take its toll physically, mentally and emotionally.

Hand Transplants And Bionic Limbs is focused on helping Americans have lost a limb or underwent amputation. With the technology today, hand transplants and bionic limbs can act as replacements to enable individuals to fully function again. Occupational therapists help patients in using these artificial limbs effectively.

New Technology for Rehab includes using applications and gadgets that help in the rehabilitation of disabled patients. Occupational therapists encourage patients to use smart phones that have a speech to text feature so patients can easily communicate with anyone they want to. Also, using the Nintendo Wii can help in rehabilitating physical disabilities.

Veteran and Wounded Warrior Care are about helping soldiers get the proper rehabilitation they need. Soldiers can suffer from physical, mental and emotional disorders. Sometimes, they may also have behavioral issues due to the trauma too.

As the aging population increases, the healthcare industry is looking for more nurses and occupational therapists to respond to the demand. Now, you have narrowed down your choices to becoming a nurse or an occupational therapist. You can ask yourself, what are you more interested in? Giving direct patient care to the general public or specializing on patients with disabilities? If you chose the latter, you want to become an occupational therapist.

Physical Therapist VS Occupational Therapist

Many people are wondering what the difference between a physical therapist and an occupational therapist is. The confusion may be because both types of therapists can help treat patients with disabilities and both therapists often works with the senior patients. While the work of both therapists is complementary, the focus of the work is very different.

Students who wish to become physical therapists or occupational therapists someday will need to complete a bachelor’s degree first before being accepted into a master’s degree program. Undergraduate majors can be on human anatomy, biology, physiology and other related fields. When it is time to pursue a master’s degree, that is when the training becomes different and more specific. PT degree programs will focus on PT therapies, methods and principles while OT degree programs will focus on OT techniques, principles and methods. Once the master’s degree is completed, both types of therapists are now eligible for licensing.

So, what makes the two different? The physical therapist is focus on the physical aspects and movements of a person which includes walking, balance, coordination, flexibility and strength. A physical therapist can help a stroke patient learn how to walk again after suffering the stroke. The main focus of physical therapist is working with the body from waist down.

The occupational therapist is not just focused on physical movement but with the overall aspects of the person including emotional, mental and behavioral. Occupational therapists help the patient to learn, regain or maintain independence despite an illness or disability. The OT helps the patient with the use of devices and gadgets that will help the patient become more independent. The OT works with a patient’s body from the waist up.

Although there is some overlapping of duties, it is easier to distinguish one from the other now. Physical and occupational therapists often work together with a patient to get the best results.

Career Benefits Of An Occupational Therapist

Now that you know what type of therapist you are, it is time to know what benefits you can gain from this career. Right now, occupational therapists are highly needed because of the increasing senior population and the number of people with disabilities. Also, schools are implementing special-education programs which also need the help of occupational therapists. What does this demand have to do with your career?

For one, because of the high demand, the employment in the field of occupational therapy is expected to increase too. There will be a 26% increase until 2018. With the employment or jobs rising, this equates to more job prospects for occupational therapists. Occupational therapists can work in orthopedic settings, acute hospitals and rehabilitation centers. They can also perform services to patients in their homes. Further, if an occupational therapist has a specific treatment area, he or she can expect more job opportunities.

Occupational therapists receive benefits and vacation time throughout their careers. These are the perks of being a healthcare service provider and a highly demanded one at that. Occupational therapists receive annual bonuses. The amount of bonuses will depend on the work experience of the therapist with the employer. Bonuses can range from $1000 to $1500 a year. OTs benefit from an annual paid vacation leave. The number of paid vacation days will depend on the work experience of the therapist with the employer. Newly graduate therapists get 1.9 weeks of paid vacation on the average while those with 1-19 years of experience can get as much as 2.2 weeks paid vacation.

As a healthcare service provider, it should not be a surprise that occupational therapists receive health insurance. The health insurance package includes medical insurance, cancer coverage, vision insurance, disability coverage and dental insurance. For occupational therapists that will be assigned to work in other places for a short period of time, they can also receive accident coverage.

Occupational therapists are not millionaires but they earn more than enough to live comfortable lives. The starting salary of an OT is around $67,000 a year while those with a few years of experience can already earn $75,000 a year. The pay goes higher if the occupational therapist has a doctorate degree or a specialty area. Occupational therapists operating their own clinics can earn $90,000 a year.

Why Should You Choose This Career?

On a more personal note, there are plenty of reasons why this should be a fulfilling and enjoyable careers for you to take on. After all, a career is not just about the compensation and benefits. It is also about job satisfaction and fulfillment.

As an occupational therapist, there will not be a lack of challenges throughout your career. Challenges will allow you to grow as a healthcare professional. These challenges will help you to continuously learn and improve your craft. There are no two days that are the same in this career. Every patient is different, every condition and treatment is different. You will work with different people every day in different situations. Thus, boredom will not be a problem.

An occupational therapist has the freedom to choose where to work and how to work. With the several healthcare facilities that needs the services of an OT, choosing will not be a problem. Occupational therapists can choose to focus on working with children, adults or seniors. They can work in their private clinics or accept traveling jobs. They can work part-time or full-time. So, you have total control of your career.

The most important reason of all is the satisfaction and fulfillment you get from treating patients. Once you see that your treatment plans are working and that patients are gaining independence, you will know why this is one of the best careers in the world.