Occupational therapist

Duties and responsibilities:

Occupational therapists help patients who are mentally, emotionally, or physically disabled adjust to handicaps and regain abilities to perform daily living and self-care physicians, counselors, and physical therapists.

Occupational therapists design therapy programs and work closely with patients to observe them, help them, and monitor their progress. They frequently design special equipment to aid patients and help with their therapy. They also teach patients how to adjust by injury or illness. Most occupational therapists are employed at hospitals, and many work at nursing homes. Some work at schools for the handicapped, rehabilitation centers, or at adult daycare centers.

Average salary:$26,000-$45,000

Educational Requirements:

Students who want to become occupational therapists should take the most challenging high school math, science, and English courses.

All states require either a bachelor’s or master’s degree that includes clinical experience and successful completion of a national examination to become a certified occupational therapist.