To become a certified occupational therapist, one must complete a degree from an accredited institution, apply to take the certification exam, and stay up-to-date on the latest treatment methods. If one fails the exam, they can learn from their experience and retake it.
To function as an occupational therapist, or OT, in most countries, it is necessary to obtain certification from a national or local government agency empowered to grant such credentials. While the certification process varies slightly from country to country, there is a core set of requirements that tend to remain the same everywhere. If you’re serious about getting your certification in occupational therapy, here are some facts you should know.
Before you can begin the process of earning your occupational therapy certification, it is important to successfully complete all required courses of study and earn a degree from an accredited institution of higher learning. Depending on the type of credential required, the selected candidate must possess a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Increasingly, countries around the world require prospective therapists to have a master’s degree associated with one or more selected programs that are recognized and recommended by the government agency.
Students who are currently taking a course with the aim of becoming a certified occupational therapist should check with the appropriate government agency to ensure the courses are approved and meet current educational requirements. Do not assume that your program has been approved, as not all are associated with accredited universities or colleges. This will allow you to make changes to your selection of required occupational therapy courses before wasting too much time and money.
After earning your occupational therapy degree, your next step is to formally apply to take the certification exam. Often, the occupational therapy school that issues your degree can help with the application process. Keep in mind that many jurisdictions only offer the exam at certain times of the year. By starting the application process as soon as possible, you will help minimize any potential delays in taking the exam and achieving certification in occupational therapy.
While you wait to schedule your occupational therapy certification exam, take some time to review any preparation materials that may be available. This will help you to focus and review aspects of your occupational therapy training that are likely to feature prominently on the exam. However, make sure you are fully proficient with all current information about your chosen career path. Jurisdictions frequently update their examinations to reflect the latest treatment methods and other essentials as they are developed. Make sure you stay up-to-date on what’s happening in the field to earn the highest possible certification rating.
If you don’t pass the occupational therapy certification exam on the first try, don’t be discouraged. Review the sections you didn’t perform well in and evaluate the reasons why you didn’t pass. Learn from experience and use what you learn to prepare for the next available exam. While many jurisdictions only allow candidates to take the exam once in a given period of time, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to retake it in less than a calendar year.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
