what do Occupational Therapists do when they quit the profession?

Question

Occupational therapy is a profession with a fairly high turnover. what do OT's do once they leave the profession??

travelling is a short term option - what happens after??
parenthood is another option - but how many can afford not to work at all??

what other careers would an OT be qualified to do?
or have the skills to do??

Answer 1

I am an OT, and I love my job. I couldn't ever imagine leaving it, but if I did, I would be qualified to pursue many other avenues. Occupational therapists have a lot of education in development, psychology, and biological sciences. They are trained in the importance of activity and are knowledgeable about many areas relating to disability. Below, you will find a list of other avenues OT's could pursue after a career or training in OT. It's not complete...it's just off the top of my head. Good luck to you!

-Any form of child care
-Substitute teaching (Most states only require that substituit teachers hold a Bachelor's degree and then take a brief training seminar provided by the district.)
-Involvement in wellness and social service programs.
-Massage therapy (additional training required)
-Teach relaxation or fitness classes through a community or senior center.
-Activity Program Directors at nursing homes
-Work with people wtih cognitive disabilties in group homes or sheltered workshops.
-Non-medical home care (look it up online)
-Accessibility/ADA consultant for consturction company, housing developer, or city plannign committee
-Work with a medical equipment distributor
-Work with an independent living agency
-etc, etc, etc