5 Non-Traditional Career Paths for Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapists are trained to improve quality of life and functional independence. However, OT skills extend far beyond hospitals and clinics. If you’re looking for a new OT career path, here are five exciting options that leverage your expertise in innovative ways.

1. Assistive Recreation and Adaptive Sports Programs

Occupational therapists have a unique and fun opportunity to apply their knowledge in adaptive sports and recreation programs. This helps people with disabilities participate in physical activities and sports. In this OT career path, therapists assess current physical abilities and recommend adaptive equipment as well as create strategies to make sure each client can participate in recreational activities safely. This is a great OT career choice for those who want to be creative and also blend occupational therapy with coaching and community engagement.

2. Hand Therapy and Orthopedic Rehabilitation

Hand therapy, a specialty in the world of orthopedic rehab, involves helping clients recover from injuries and surgeries or manage a chronic condition. Therapists in this OT career path often communicate closely with physical therapists, surgeons, and other members of occupational health teams to optimize the mobility of the hands. Some OTs very much enjoy the routine of an OT career path like this.

3. Mental Health and Behavioral Health

Occupational therapists can also work in behavioral health clinics or outpatient clinical settings, as well as community programs. OTs in spaces like these help to manage client stress, anxiety, depression, or other cognitive challenges. This OT career path emphasizes skills of daily life and coping strategies. Many OTs in this career path enjoy advocating for the holistic well-being of their clients. OTs in this field highlight the versatility of an occupational therapist.

4. Workplace Ergonomics and Industrial Rehab

OTs in workplace ergonomics and industrial rehab focus on helping employees prevent injuries and recover from work-related accidents. They also help employees optimize their performance. This OT career path involves evaluating lots of unique work environments, which is great for OTs looking for more diversity from day-to-day. In this OT career path, therapists recommend adaptive equipment to help employees and train them on safe movement and body mechanics to use in their daily workplace routine. Therapists seeking a problem-solving approach in their OT career path often do well in this setting.

5. Driver Rehabilitation

Driver rehab is a very unique and highly impactful OT career path. In this OT career path, therapists help clients regain or maintain safe driving skills after an injury or illness, as well as in the case of aging. This speciality combines clinical assessment and adaptive driving equipment with practical training. This OT career path is ideal for those who want a hands-on position with high reward.

Why Explore an Alternate OT Career Path

Exploring OT career paths outside of traditional settings allows therapists to match their skills with something they are most passionate about. This increases OT job satisfaction. It also promotes professional growth as you are exposed to new skills and technologies in the world of occupational therapy. Branching into a specialized field may be exactly what you need to enhance the flexibility of your career and long-term plans for the future.

Enroll in Adaptive Mobility’s OT Courses Today

Adaptive Mobility provides online and in-person education for OTs looking to become a driver rehabilitation specialist. Learn more about the OT career path in driver rehab by browsing our courses today!