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Occupational therapists (NOC 3143)

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Changes have been made to the method for estimating job prospects per occupation. To better reflect the reality of the job market and the new method of estimation, the prospect diagnostics have been modified. Thus, the possible diagnostics are now excellent, good, limited and not published. For more information about the meaning of each diagnostic, see the glossary.

Nature of work

Occupational therapists develop individual and group programs with people affected by illness, injury, developmental disorders, emotional or psychological problems and ageing to maintain, restore or increase their ability to care for themselves and to engage in work, school or leisure. They also develop and implement health promotion programs with individuals, community groups and employers. They are employed in health care facilities, in schools, and by private and social services agencies, or they may be self-employed.

Main duties

  • Occupational therapists perform some or all of the following duties:
  • - Analyse clients' capabilities and expectations related to life activities through observation, interviews and formal assessments
  • - Develop intervention programs to address clients' needs related to self-care, work and leisure activities
  • - Maintain clients' records
    • - Continued…
  • - Establish personalized care plans working as a member of an interdisciplinary team
  • - Consult and advise on health promotion programs to prevent disabilities and to maximize independent function in all activities of life
  • - May supervise support personnel and students and provide training.
  • * Occupational therapists may specialize in working with specific populations such as children or adults, or persons with distinct problems such as dementia, traumatic brain injury and chronic pain, or provide special interventions such as return-to-work programs.

Employment requirements

  • * A university degree in occupational therapy including supervised fieldwork is required or Graduation from an occupational therapy program approved by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) is accepted in some provinces.
  • * Completion of the national certification examination may be required.
  • * Licensure with a regulatory body is required in all provinces.
  • * Membership in the national association, Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists, is required in some provinces.
  • * Occupational therapists may obtain expertise in a particular area through additional training or experience.

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