What is an Occupational Therapist?

. In this context, “occupation” doesn’t just mean a job; it refers to the meaningful activities that make up a student’s school day, such as holding a pencil, navigating the classroom, staying organized, or engaging in group learning.

Occupational Therapists in schools work with children and teens to build skills, adapt learning environments, and remove barriers that may impact their ability to learn and thrive. They might support a student in developing fine motor control for handwriting, provide strategies for sensory regulation, or recommend classroom modifications that promote independence.

At its core, school-based OT is about meeting students where they are and giving them the tools they need to succeed in academics, daily routines, and peer interactions, empowering them to grow with confidence both inside and outside the classroom.

What Do Occupational Therapists Do?

In schools, Ots help students build the skills they need to thrive both academically and socially. Their work goes beyond just therapy sessions; they collaborate with teachers, staff, and families to make sure every child can participate meaningfully in the classroom. Some of their key responsibilities include:

• Supporting fine motor skills like handwriting, cutting, or using classroom tools
• Helping students with sensory processing challenges stay calm, focused, and engaged
• Teaching self-care skills such as managing clothing fasteners, opening lunch containers, or organizing school materials
• Recommending adaptive equipment or assistive technology to promote independence
• Modifying classroom setups to improve accessibility and comfort
• Collaborating with teachers to create strategies that support diverse learning needs

Occupational Therapist vs. Physical Therapist: What’s the Difference?

Both OTs and Physical Therapists (PTs) support students’ ability to participate in learning, but they focus on different areas of development.

OTs help students build the fine motor, sensory, and daily living skills they need for classroom participation. This might include handwriting, using scissors, organizing materials, or managing sensory input to stay focused. OTs often address the “how” of learning and everyday tasks.

PTs, on the other hand, focus on gross motor skills and mobility. They work with students on balance, strength, coordination, posture, and walking or using mobility aids. PTs help ensure students can physically navigate the school environment, whether that’s climbing stairs, moving between classrooms, or safely participating in physical education.

Together, OTs and PTs complement one another to support a child’s success in school, addressing both the fine details of daily tasks and the broader physical skills needed to access learning.

How to Become an Occupational Therapist

Becoming an OT requires specialized education and training to prepare for the wide range of skills needed in this profession. The journey typically includes:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Most OTs begin with a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as psychology, biology, kinesiology, or health sciences.
• Master’s or Doctoral Degree in Occupational Therapy: To practice as an OT, you must complete an accredited master’s or doctoral program in occupational therapy, which combines coursework with hands-on clinical experience.
• Licensing and Certification: After graduating, aspiring OTs must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam to become licensed practitioners.
• State Licensure: Each state also requires its own license to practice, which ensures therapists meet local standards.
• Optional Specializations: Many OTs pursue additional training in areas like pediatrics, sensory integration, or assistive technology, especially if they plan to work in a school setting.

The entire process usually takes about six to seven years from start to finish, but it leads to a rewarding career helping people of all ages reach their fullest potential.

Start Your Occupational Therapy Journey with VocoVision

Occupational Therapists make a meaningful difference in the lives of students by helping them gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed in school and beyond. If you’re ready to take the next steps in your OT career, check out our wide selection of OT openings today.