Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapy is about enabling people with physical, mental or social problems to adapt to any aspect of their life with more confidence and control. Occupational therapists work with people in groups or on a one-to-one basis, devising treatment programmes that enable people to achieve as much as possible for themselves.

Occupational therapists work in a wide range of areas, such as social care, mental health, learning disabilities, education and physical rehabilitation. They may work with children, adolescents, adults or older people. Their involvement varies greatly according to individual needs.

They may work with people who:

• have been affected by conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis or osteoporosis
• have a physical disability, either from birth or from an accident or illness (for example, cerebral palsy, head injuries, strokes or multiple sclerosis)
• are affected by mental health issues, including anxiety, depression and eating disorders
• have learning disabilities that affect their skills, such as reading, handling money or dealing with others
• have difficulties with drug or alcohol use and are trying to control their own behaviour
• are recovering from operations or other treatments to a part of their body (for example, for spinal operations or burns).

Depending on the person’s needs, occupational therapists may:

• suggest ways that people can more easily undertake daily activities such as washing, cooking, shopping or using public transport
• suggest special equipment or arrange for adaptations to the home or workplace, to help with daily living or getting around
• support people in rediscovering or developing hobbies, leisure and social activities
• advise on coping strategies like relaxation techniques, assertiveness (the ability to say ‘no’), thinking positively or managing depression
• help people to develop their social skills in relationships with other people, friends and family
• help children in schools to overcome barriers to learning such as writing difficulties
• help people plan a return to work or learning.

Occupational therapists work with a range of other professionals, including doctors, nurses, psychologists, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, teachers, social workers and representatives from charitable and voluntary organisations. They also advise and support clients’ families, carers and employers.

Hours and environment

Occupational therapists usually work office hours, Monday to Friday, but in some places, such as community mental health services and acute hospitals, they also work in the evenings and at weekends. Part-time work and flexible hours may be available.

Work settings vary and can include hospitals, residential homes, hostels, health or day centres, GP practices, schools and colleges, prisons, industrial and commercial companies and clients’ homes.

Many occupational therapists travel between different locations.

Salary and other benefits

These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary depending on the employer and where people live.

• The starting salary for a qualified occupational therapist working in the HSE may be around €33,000 a year.
• Experienced senior occupational therapists may earn around €50,000 a year.
• Consultant occupational therapists may earn up to around €60,000 a year.

Skills and personal qualities

Occupational therapists should:

• have excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• be able to relate to all kinds of people
• be able to persuade and motivate others
• have a flexible and creative approach to problem solving
• be able to deal with issues in a practical way
• be patient and open-minded
• be able to work independently and as part of a team
• be able to take decisions on their own initiative
• be well organised.

Interests

It is important to have an interest in:

• health and biological science
• psychology and social issues.