I want to be a teacher or an occupational therapist, which one is a better option?

Question

I have a hard time deciding between the two. I like working one on one with people and helping them. Anyone have experience in both professions??

Answer 1

OT is the more flexible of the two for several reasons:1) many job opportunities- hospitals, nursing homes, schools, home health agencies. 2) you have the option of part-time work as an OT that you wouldn't have as a teacher. 3) There aren't problems with class discipline as an OT. Teachers can have a really rough time of it with a classroom filled with kids of ANY age group. 4) OTs can make between $40 and $75 per hour, depending on experience and job setting, even with a bachelor's degree. The pay scale for teachers tops off at a rather low level if one doesn't have a master's degree. 5)As an OT, you can leave your job at the office. No late nights grading papers, no open house or parent-teacher conferences. 6) you can pick an area of specialization in OT; geriatrics, handicapped kids, brain injury/stroke, hand therapy, etc. I'd be an OT over being a teacher, any day.

Answer 2

Well, one on one is more for the occupational therapist. Teachers usually have a classroom full, which may be from 20 up to 40 depending on the school. The paperwork is probably less with the occupational therapist, but the degree is one year shorter for the teacher. There are probably more job openings for the teacher. If you have any way to do it, try volunteering in both areas and see what you think.

Answer 3

An occupational therapist profession could make for an fairly precious way of existence. it may be great once you have an interest in coaching considering you need to doubtlessly spend very much of time in the college room and could get exposure in that understand.

Answer 4

I was a teacher for 5 yrs, then went for an MA in Guidance and Counseling and worked for 21 yr with very troubled adolescents in treatment facilities. The Kindergarten was a hot-bed of sibling rivalry! 39, with no aide or volunteers, and they had had no pre-school experience. A friend who had been a social worker-turned teacher reported the same thing with her 5th Graders! A GREAT challenge for both of us. I finally got the hang of getting them to work as a group/together and experience the internal rewards of achieving. I did love it, but working with the adolescents gave me more pleasure in watching them progress and succeed. Working individually, for me--plus in group therapy, brought me the most personal gratification. It's all tough work--but, I guess, what isn't, when working with troubled people!!! My advice is to experience BOTH and then find what you enjoy doing most! We are always best doing what we enjoy most!!

Answer 5

occupational therapist more money and a funner job