Occupational therapist

Career path and progression

With experience you could:

• specialise in an area such as elderly care or services for children
• go into private practice, education or research
• do further training and move into more senior or management roles within the NHS
• work overseas

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of psychology
• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• sensitivity and understanding
• to be flexible and open to change
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Psychology - Occupational therapists use psychological knowledge every day to understand how mental health conditions, cognitive difficulties, and emotional challenges affect a person's ability to carry out daily tasks. They apply counselling techniques, motivational strategies, and behavioural approaches to help clients build confidence and develop coping skills.
• Biology - Occupational therapists need to understand how the human body works – including muscles, joints, the nervous system, and how conditions like stroke or arthritis affect movement and function. This knowledge helps them assess what a client can do physically and design activities to improve their abilities.
• Sociology - Occupational therapists consider how social factors like housing, family support, employment, and community access affect a person's wellbeing and independence. Understanding how society is structured and how inequality impacts health helps them provide more effective, person-centred support.

Also relevant

• Physical Education - Occupational therapists often help clients improve their physical abilities through movement and exercise-based activities. Understanding how the body responds to physical activity, and how to adapt exercises for different abilities, is useful when planning rehabilitation programmes.
• English Language - Occupational therapists write detailed progress notes, assessment reports, and care plans that need to be clear and accurate. They also need strong communication skills to explain treatment goals to clients, families, and other healthcare professionals in a way that everyone can understand.
• Design and Technology - Occupational therapists suggest practical adaptations to homes, workplaces, and everyday objects to help clients live more independently – such as modified kitchen equipment or adapted workstations. Understanding how products and spaces are designed helps them come up with creative, workable solutions.
• Art and Design - Occupational therapists sometimes use creative activities like art, crafts, and making things as part of therapy to help clients develop fine motor skills, express emotions, and build confidence. Understanding creative processes can help them plan engaging and therapeutic sessions.