Occupational therapist
What does an occupational therapist do?
If you’re wondering ‘what is an occupational therapist?’, you’re not alone – working in this profession can mean a broad range of things. At the core of it, an occupational therapist (OT) helps people of all ages and abilities to better participate in daily activities. Through education, exercises, equipment, and assistive technologies, an OT can help patients with tasks such as showering, getting dressed, fulfilling work requirements, socialising, or completing hobbies. Occupational therapy takes place in a variety of settings including community centres, private practices, hospitals, and schools.
Is a career as an occupational therapist right for me?
Occupational therapy may be a great fit if you enjoy helping people overcome everyday challenges, improve their independence and enhance their quality of life. It suits people who are empathetic, adaptable, strong communicators and enjoy practical problem-solving.
Other skills and attributes beneficial for this role include:
An ability to manage change positively and perform effectively in changing environments.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
The ability to build positive relationships and support others effectively.
Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.
The ability to take initiative, demonstrate personal drive, and maintain a professional attitude.
The capacity to lead through effective decision-making, accountability, and support for others.
The ability to work effectively in demanding, practical, or physically challenging environments.
How to become an occupational therapist
Occupational therapists help people participate more fully in everyday activities, supporting independence, wellbeing and quality of life. Becoming an OT typically involves completing an accredited university qualification, gaining practical experience and meeting professional registration requirements.
Here is a common path to becoming an occupational therapist:
- Study an accredited occupational therapy bachelor or masters degree.
- Undertake supervised clinical placements across diverse healthcare and community settings.
- Graduate and apply for registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia.
- Begin practising as an occupational therapist in a chosen field.
- Pursue professional development and specialised practice throughout your career.
Accreditation and qualifications
To work as an occupational therapist (OT) in Australia, you'll need to complete an approved university qualification and register with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia. Registration ensures you meet the professional standards required to practise safely and effectively.
UniSQ's Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) is accredited by the Occupational Therapy Council of Australia and approved by the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia, meaning graduates are eligible to apply for professional registration.
How long does it take to become an occupational therapist?
The time it takes to follow an occupational therapist career path can vary depending on your previous education, the training requirements of specific fields, and employment opportunities.
Completing a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at UniSQ takes four years of full-time study or the part-time equivalent.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Launch your career in OT with a UniSQ occupational therapy degree and develop the clinical, problem-solving and people-focused skills needed to support health, wellbeing and independence across diverse communities and healthcare settings.
Responsibilities and work settings
Assessing clients' developmental and physical capabilities through observation and standardised tests.
Planning and providing therapy to help clients develop, recover, or maintain daily living and work skills.
Observing and documenting clients’ progress and behaviour to adjust therapy plans as needed.
Recommending adaptive equipment or adaptations to their lifestyles such as wheelchairs, splints, or other assistive changes.
Collaborating with other healthcare professionals in the overall case management of clients.
Aged care providers
Community health organisations
Disability services providers
Early learning and childcare providers
Government agencies, departments and councils
Non-profit, charity and community organisations
Primary and secondary schools
Private healthcare providers, clinics and practices
Public hospitals and health services
Research institutes and research centres
Sport and recreation organisations
Universities and higher education providers
Occupational therapist FAQs
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