Recreation 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 skills. They work as part of a team with physicians, counselors, and physical therapists.

Occupational therapists design therapy programs and work closely with patients to observe them, help them, and monitor their therapy. They also teach patients how to adjust to work and home life after becoming disabled 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.