Occupational Therapy has been an established profession for more than 85 years. Since early on in the profession s history, occupational therapists have worked in hospitals, schools, and community health centers. Building on a common professional foundation, occupational therapists may work in specialty areas such as pediatrics, school systems, physical and industrial rehabilitation, mental health, and hand therapy. Most occupational therapists are employed in school systems and rehabilitation and mental health hospitals. Other major employers include nursing homes, home health agencies, residential care facilities, and community centers.
Some occupational therapists are self-employed in private practice.
They often provide direct treatment to clients referred by physicians or other health professionals or provide consulting and contract services to schools, daycare programs, and nursing homes. All rights reserved.