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. Occupational therapists may obtain expertise in a particular area through additional training or experience. [NOC 3143]
Occupational therapists may specialize in working with a specific age group, such as children or the elderly, or with clients who have a specific disability, such as arthritis or schizophrenia. Other common duties include observing patients and consulting physicians' prognoses to assess their patients' emotional and physical capacities. They also develop treatment programs as manual and creative arts, industrial and vocational skills, and recreational activities.
Occupational therapists may also be responsible for implementing treatment programs, evaluating patient progress, maintaining clinical and statistical records, and conducting research in their field of specialization. Some occupational therapists advise on health risks in the workplace or participate in other programs, such as pre-retirement programs, to prevent physical or mental problems. They may also act as occupational therapy consultants or educators.
Occupational therapists are employed in health care facilities, in schools, and by private and social services agencies, or they may be self-employed.
Basic Requirements:
- International applicants must have successfully completed an entry-level university degree (Baccalaureate or Professional Master's) in occupational therapy that is recognized by Saskatchewan Society of Occupational Therapists Council or equivalent education.
- Successful completion of the national certification examination.
- Licensure with a regulatory body.
- Personal liability/malpractice insurance of $5 million.
Here is a process map for occupational therapists that outlines the steps to getting a license in Saskatchewan.
For other requirements and more information, contact:
Saskatchewan Society of Occupational Therapists
Email: admin@ssot.sk.ca
Website: www.ssot.sk.ca
