Occupational Therapy

Megan Brochetti

English III Honors Pd. 2

Mr. Piatak

February 23, 2017

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Imagine not having the ability to perform simple everyday tasks such as cooking, writing,

or using stairs. Accidents, injuries, disease, and disabilities can make it hard or even impossible

for some people to perform these daily tasks and interactions. At its most basic form,

occupational therapy involves assessing and treating people with physical or mental disorders in

order to develop their daily living skills. These programs ultimately strive to properly plan,

organize, and create rehabilitative programs that help build or restore a persons ability to

participate in their everyday life. Professionals in this field work with a wide range of patients at

all stages of life. Abilities can naturally decline as people get older, and aging population in the

Unites States accounts for rapid growth in this career. Additionally, more and more parents

enroll their children in occupational therapy programs to accelerate their motor skills and mental

development. Occupational therapy has a compelling history full of advancements in the field;

while it requires an extensive and proficient education, the payoff provides meaningful work

with many opportunities to help people, which makes it an extremely rewarding career path.

Occupational therapy, although considered a relatively new field in medicine, can trace

its origins back to the 17th century. Bernardini Ramazzini, an Italian physician, pioneered the

study of occupational medicine in the late 1600s (Gainer 6). He focused on finding the cause of

health problems workers commonly developed and ways to aid recovery. Ramazzini achieved

this by visiting workplaces, observing workers behaviors and symptoms, and applying this

information into his diagnoses and treatments. His research confirmed that not only did

hazardous exposure to material contribute to injuries, but unnatural postures, movements, and

bodily positions also played a role. Unknowingly, Ramazzini studied things called ergonomic

factors, which remain crucial in fully understanding occupational medicine today. Ramazzini
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published these findings in personal journals, which contained examples of activities to help his

patients recover from their injuries or disorders. Due to these contributions, people recognize

Ramazzini as the father of occupational medicine (Franco). His discoveries in the medical field

created an entirely new area of practice, now known as occupational therapy.

Due to the industrial revolution in the 19th century, a plethora of new injuries and health

problems arose in the United States that medical professional had never dealt with before (Gainer

6). Many laborers spent their days in dangerous working conditions, taking a toll on their bodies.

American industrial methods, although highly productive, continued to develop with little

concerns about safety. A lack of proper regulations to protect employees in these facilities

resulted in many health problems. To combat these issues, doctors began introducing their

patients to various therapeutic activities (Campbell 1). Occupational therapy, though not

recognized as a formal career yet, still played a crucial role in relieving pain and treating injuries

during this time.

In the early 1900s, medical advancements allowed professionals to look at occupational

therapy from a more scientific point of view (Campbell 1). This resulted in the practice gaining

respect and popularity in the United States. New treatments and programs recommended by

doctors brought the public awareness regarding the benefits of occupational therapy. World War

I additionally fueled the growth of this practice. During the war, over 1,200 medical

professionals, known as rehabilitation aides, specialized in working with wounded or disabled

soldiers (Amorelli 35). Instead of simply tending to injuries, these rehabilitation aides used

methods considered unorthodox at the time, including crafts, music, and exercises, in order to

restore physical and mental health. World War I marked the beginning of modern warfare,
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militaries used more destructive weapons than ever before. For example, this war introduced

armored tanks, machine guns, and grenades. These new technologies brought consequences of

record-high casualties and trauma cases. In 1914, World War I ended and a surge of American

veterans returned to the United States with many physical and mental health problems as a result

of their time in action (Amorelli 35). The rehabilitation aides, who eventually became known as

occupational therapists, assisted in vocational rehabilitation as they helped injured soldiers return

to a normal and functional life.

Founded in 1917, The National Society for the Promotion of Occupational Therapy

Association made its mission to study and advance curative occupations for invalids and

convalescents (Hayes 5). In other words, they strived to help people overcome disabilities.

Only a few years later, in 1921, the society renamed itself the American Occupational Therapy

Association, established a national registry, and developed educational standards. This

organization allowed occupational therapy to align with organized medicine and become an

established career. Following World War I, occupational therapists expanded their focus from

primarily war-related injuries to many other kinds of orthopedic issues (Gainer 7). This resulted

in further growth of the profession, as occupational therapists began to treat a much wider variety

of patients. For example, it became common for professionals in this field to work with children,

the elderly, and the mentally ill.

The demand for occupational therapists increased in the latter part of the 20th century as

the United States began to develop a new attitude toward mentally and physically disabled

people (Pellettieri 66). These people, once debilitated, can now become independent and

productive members of society thanks to the achievements in this area of practice. Occupational
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therapy now consists of nine different certified specialty areas: pediatrics, mental health, vision,

school systems, gerontology, mobility, environmental modification, eating, and physical

rehabilitation (Campbell 1). The diversity in this field allows occupational therapists to work in a

variety of settings and help many different kinds of people. Today, patients can range from a

child with ADHD to an amputee victim. Federal programs have also contributed to growth in this

career path. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act, established in 2004,

requires help from occupational therapists to ensure the best quality of life possible for disabled

students (Workforce 2). This act brought the practice of occupational therapy into school

settings, something no one had considered doing before. Additionally, recent advancements in

technology have encouraged occupational therapists to work harder, faster, and smarter. These

developments allow much more specific and accurate diagnostic techniques, in turn leading to

more personalized therapy plans (Rodger 173). Occupational therapy continues to evolve and

develop more effective methods of treatment for a diverse range of patients.

Pursuing a career in occupational therapy first requires a college education. However, in

2007, it also became necessary for occupational therapists to earn a master's degree in order to

become licensed in their field (Rezaee, et al 1). Because of this, the path to becoming an

occupational therapist does not require any specific undergraduate major. Instead, students

applying to occupational therapy schools must complete certain courses in college in order for

them to grasp a better understanding of occupational medicine. In order to complete these

prerequisites, recommended majors include anatomy, psychology, or the most common: biology.

According to the US News rankings, Harvard University in Massachusetts has the best biological

sciences program in the Unites States (Best Universities). Within the Carolinas, the most
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accredited biological sciences program belongs to the University of North Carolina at Chapel

Hill. This school additionally has the highest ranked occupational therapy graduate program in

the state (Department of Occupational Therapy). A masters degree ensures potential

occupational therapists have all the information necessary to become successful in this field.

In the United States, the Council on Higher Education recognizes over 197 different

schools that offer graduate occupational therapy programs. Some of these universities offer dual

degree programs that take only five years to complete. However, the majority offer a two-year

masters degree, preceded by a four-year bachelor's degree. Because of the competitive nature of

this field, most occupational therapy schools require a cumulative undergraduate GPA of around

3.0 and balanced coursework in biology, social sciences, and math (Rezaee, et al, 2). Boston

University has the highest ranked occupational therapy program for graduate students in the

entire country (MS in Occupational Therapy). A degree from this university, Harvard

University, or Chapel Hill would all look extremely impressive on a resume.

In 2010, educational program directors conducted a study concerning the success of

occupational therapists after graduation. The results showed that over 80% of students found

work within six months of graduation (Rezaee, et al 2). But for occupational therapists,

education continues even after finishing school. Once they have earned a masters degree,

graduates must pass the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapists exam. In

order to obtain a license, one must score at least a 450 out of 600 on this exam. Additionally,

occupational therapists must renew their license annually in order to legally practice in the

United States (Kjeken, Ingvild, et al 2). These regulations ensure professionals in this field have

the necessary knowledge to provide proper care to their patients.

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Once licensed, occupational therapists have a wide variety of workplaces to choose from.

The majority of professionals in this field work in hospitals and develop rehabilitative programs

for people struggling with injuries or disabilities (Workforce 2). Here, occupational therapists

commonly work as a team or with other kinds of doctors in order to most effectively treat

patients. Occupational therapists can work with a diverse range of colleagues and patients at any

age in this setting. Similar to hospitals, outpatient clinics provide rehabilitative help to all kinds

of clients. However, oftentimes cases in this setting deal with more specific issues. Here,

occupational therapists focus on not only major physical debilitations, but also simple motor

functioning and processing skills. Nursing homes also frequently employ occupational therapists.

The elderly often require assistance adjusting to changes that occur with age, such as chronic

diseases, arthritis, vision problems, and cognitive issues. Additionally, occupational therapists

can work for the military. Many veterans may struggle with post traumatic stress disorder and

injuries or disabilities caused by their time in action (Gainer 7). Occupational therapists can help

veterans adjust back to their normal life and find a new purpose. Recently, public school systems

have also increased their demand for occupational therapists (Pellettieri 64). Children with

disabilities, behavioral issues, or cognitive disorders often have trouble in school settings.

Occupational therapists work with these kids to develop their skills and allow them to become as

successful as possible.

No matter where an occupational therapist works, their ultimate goal always remains

helping their patients adjust to new situations or get back into everyday life. Most often, this

process involves working with many other medical professionals in order to properly analyze

and diagnose clients. Teams of occupational therapists can provide more insight and knowledge
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regarding a patient's issue. Occupational therapists also find it important to stay in contact with

caregivers of their patient. This allows them to create a supportive environment, pass along

recommendations, and provide progress reports (Amorelli 36). Bill Cerosky, an occupational

therapist employed by OrthoCarolina, describes his job as sometimes hectic, but also fun and

rewarding. He most enjoys interacting with patients one-on-one and watching them improve

until they eventually achieve total functional use of their injured body part. Although this career

mostly involves actively working with patients, paperwork also plays an important role in

day-to-day tasks. Occupational therapists must document everything they do with a patient for

insurance companies. Additionally, they chart and record client progress to discuss with case

managers. According to Bill Cerosky, many patients insurance allots them a certain amount of

sessions, and occupational therapists face the challenge of properly treating their patients in a

limited amount of time (Cerosky). To combat this, occupational therapists must work hard to

provide efficient and productive programs that lead to fast recoveries.

Working in this field comes with benefits like having a flexible schedule. Most

occupational therapists, including Cerosky, have typical workdays of around 8am to 5pm. He

treats around twelve patients per day, with sessions ranging from half-an-hour to an hour long.

Because Cerosky works in an outpatient clinic, he can set times and dates for sessions that work

around his schedule. The busiest time of the year for most occupational therapists in clinics or

hospitals begins in late spring and ends in early fall. During this time, outdoor sports seasons

cause an increase in injuries. The months of January and February also bring in more patients

than usual because many people get surgeries in the beginning of the year, and need

post-operation treatment afterward (Cerosky). Working during these hectic times may feel
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stressful, but seeing patients improve and eventually recover makes the end result worth the

hassle.

Because occupational therapists spend the majority of their time working with people,

having an extroverted personality often contributes to finding success in this field. In order to

provide proper treatment, occupational therapists must adequately explain situations and tasks to

their patients. When working with children, these communication skills play an even larger role.

Professionals in this field must convert complex medical terms into simpler ones so the patient

can fully understand their condition (Pellettieri 65). Additionally, occupational therapists need to

have good listening skills and ensure their patients feel comfortable talking to them. This

guarantees occupational therapists have the information necessary to help their clients.

Oftentimes, individuals feel hopeless about their disability, but occupational therapists should try

to keep a positive outlook on the future. Debilitations can make people depressed, rude,

frustrated, or angry, so professionals in this field must remain patient and optimistic (Rodger

174). They need to motivate their patients and encourage them to never give up, even when

recovery seems impossible. Occupational therapists accomplish this by using creative methods

that make participating in otherwise mundane activities seem fun and engaging.

Besides working well with others, this career requires people to have exceptional

organizational skills. Attention to detail plays a large role in day-to-day responsibilities in this

field. Occupational therapists have to maintain accurate records, file documents for insurance,

chart progress, and keep track of appointments. The majority of occupational therapists set their

own schedules, along with managing their clients timetables (Rodger 174). They must provide

well planned out sessions in order to give quality care. During sessions, occupational therapists
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apply their knowledge of anatomy, biology, physics, research methodology, and psychology that

they learned in school. After observing and evaluating patients, occupational therapists utilize

this knowledge to create a suitable plan of recovery (Rezaee, et al 8). They must take care to

correctly analyze a situation and act accordingly. An ideal occupational therapist conducts

extensive research on every patient in order to provide the best treatment possible.

In the United States, pediatrics currently remain one of the most common specialties of

occupational therapy. This area of practice has moved well beyond its origin of treating only

children with obvious physical disabilities. Now, many kids who seem mainstream attend

occupational therapy. For example, common patients include individuals with conditions such as

autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. In other cases, kids simply

need help developing their fine motor skills because they struggle with smaller tasks such as

writing. Occupational therapists can help these children adjust to physical, social, and behavioral

standards. Additionally, increased pressure in school systems has fueled growth in this field.

Starting as young as kindergarten, current expectations of students greatly exceed those of the

past. Children now have more academic responsibilities and less free time. Many parents eagerly

enroll their children in occupational therapy programs in effort to take a proactive approach and

help their child improve, rather than falling behind. By turning tedious exercises into enjoyable

games, occupational therapists can make sessions fun for children. Catering to patients interests

allows them to become more engaged and even excited about their treatment. For example,

occupational therapists can use play-dough to help a patient develop hand-eye-coordination and

fine motor skills (Pellettieri 67). These programs help children adjust and cope with their

day-to-day life, resulting in more confidence and overall success.

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In the United States, approximately 114,660 people currently work as occupational

therapists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this field will continue to experience

increasing demand within the next decade. Experts project the national growth of occupational

therapy at 27%, much faster than the average job (Workforce 2). Occupational therapists also

have exceptional monetary benefits, earning an average of $80,795 annually (Campbell 2). In

fact, this number will likely increase due to high projected growth in the near future. The need

for occupational therapists in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and schools remains strong.

Additionally, advancements in medical technology continue to fuel demand for occupational

therapy services. This field constantly must evolve and adapt to new surgical procedures, which

require new post-operational treatments. Although it can prove challenging to keep up with

constant changes, technological advancements immensely benefit the field of occupational

therapy (Cerosky). Recent advancements have given rise to tools that occupational therapists can

use to help people with cognitive disabilities. For example, virtual reality technology trains

patients to successfully participate in real-life activities. New medical developments also allow

occupational therapists to evaluate and diagnose patients faster and more accurately than ever

before (Kjeken, Ingvild, et al 2). These progressions lead to more efficient sessions, quicker

recovery times, and happier clients.

Occupational therapy plays an important role in helping people with injuries, disease, and

mental or physical disabilities. Professionals in this field help their patients develop necessary

skills to successfully cope with their situation. Occupational therapists strive to create

individualized programs in order to meet the specific needs of their client. Treatment plans vary,

but the ultimate goal always remains to improve the patients quality of life. Occupational
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therapy has evolved for hundred of years, and continues to expand into new practice areas.

Professionals in this field can work in a variety settings, and with people of all ages or

backgrounds. This requires exceptional social skills, along with a positive outlook. Furthermore,

occupational therapists need a proficient education in areas like biology, psychology, anatomy,

and math. Due to increasing demand this field has high projected growth within the next decade.

These factors, along with many others, make occupational therapy a good choice for someone

pursuing a meaningful and rewarding career.

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Works Cited

Amorelli, Catrinna, and Lindsay Sposato. "War And Rehabilitation: Occupational Therapy's
Power To Transform Disability Into Ability." U.S. Army Medical Department Journal
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"Best Universities for Biological Sciences." US News. US News, n.d. Web. 2 Feb. 2017.
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Campbell, Chloe. "O Is For Occupational Therapist." Minnesota Employment Review (2016): 1.
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Cerosky, Bill. E-mail Interview. 24 January 2017.

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Franco, Giuliano, and Francesca Franco. "Bernardino Ramazzini: The Father of Occupational
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