What is a school occupational therapist job?
A school occupational therapist job involves working with students, teachers, and parents to help children achieve their academic and personal goals. Occupational therapists in schools help students with disabilities or developmental delays to overcome challenges in their daily lives that may impact their learning and socialization. They assist students in developing skills that are necessary for independence, including fine motor, sensory processing, and cognitive skills. An occupational therapist in a school setting uses a variety of therapeutic techniques to help students reach their full potential and succeed in their academic and personal lives.
What do occupational therapists usually do in this position?
Occupational therapists in schools work with children who have physical, cognitive, or emotional disabilities. They evaluate students and develop individualized treatment plans to address specific needs. They may work with students one-on-one or in small groups, depending on their needs. Occupational therapists use a variety of techniques to help students improve their fine motor skills, sensory processing, and cognitive abilities. They may also collaborate with teachers, parents, and other healthcare providers to ensure that students receive the support they need to succeed.
Top 5 skills for this position:
- Strong communication skills: Occupational therapists in schools must be able to communicate effectively with students, teachers, parents, and other healthcare providers.
- Empathy: A school occupational therapist should be able to understand and relate to the unique challenges that students face.
- Strong problem-solving skills: Occupational therapists in schools must be able to identify the root cause of a student's challenges and develop effective treatment plans to address them.
- Flexibility: School occupational therapists must be able to adapt their treatment plans to meet the changing needs of students.
- Patience: A school occupational therapist may work with students who have complex issues, and must be patient as they work to find effective solutions.
How to become a school occupational therapist:
To become a school occupational therapist, you must first earn a bachelor's degree in occupational therapy or a related field. You will then need to complete a master's degree in occupational therapy from an accredited program. After you have completed your education, you will need to pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam to become licensed. To work in a school setting, you may also need to obtain additional certifications or licenses, depending on your state's requirements.
Average salary:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for occupational therapists in May 2020 was $86,280. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $57,330, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $128,900. The salary for a school occupational therapist may vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and education.
Roles and types:
School occupational therapists work in a variety of settings, including public and private schools, preschools, and special education centers. They may work with students of all ages, from preschool through high school. Occupational therapists in schools may specialize in working with students with specific disabilities or challenges, such as autism, cerebral palsy, or sensory processing disorder.
Locations with the most popular jobs in the USA:
School occupational therapists are in demand throughout the United States. Some of the most popular locations for these jobs include California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Illinois. These states have large populations and a high demand for healthcare professionals, including occupational therapists. However, job opportunities for school occupational therapists may be available in many other states as well.
What are the typical tools used in this position?
Occupational therapists in schools use a variety of tools and equipment to help students achieve their goals. Some of the most common tools used in this position include adaptive equipment such as splints or braces, sensory integration equipment such as weighted blankets or swings, and fine motor tools such as pencils or scissors. They may also use computer programs or apps to assist with cognitive and language skills.
In conclusion:
School occupational therapists play a critical role in helping students with disabilities or developmental delays achieve their full potential. They use a variety of therapeutic techniques to help students develop skills that are necessary for independence and success. With a strong demand for healthcare professionals in the United States, a career as a school occupational therapist can be both rewarding and lucrative. By earning the necessary education and certification, you can pursue a career in this field and make a positive impact on the lives of students and their families.