Occupational therapists are health and rehabilitation professionals who help people regain, develop, and build skills that are important for independent functioning, health, well-being, security, and happiness.

Occupational therapists work with people of all ages who, because of illness, injury, developmental delays, or psychological problems, need assistance in learning skills to help them lead independent, productive, and satisfying lives.

An occupational therapist (OT) can be licensed at the professional level after completing a degree in his or her field. OTs must also complete a supervised fieldwork program and pass a national certification examination.

Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) typically have completed an associate degree program.