Where should I volunteer to get experience or exposure to the field of Occupational Therapy?

Question

I need this for entry into the OT Master's Program where I plan to apply. Any ideas are appreciated.
Thanks!

thank you so much for all your good ideas..

Answer 1

You should ask at your local hospital. Also there are societies like the cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy and ARC. There are also physical therapy establishments in various localities. You may have to ask around to get one that wants volunteers and that is acceptable to your program.Schools also have programs for special students and they always need volunteers.There may be a special school in your area. Ask at the school board.

Answer 2

Most volunteering at a hospitals you will not get observation experience. I tried and was told I would not work with patients directly but only at areas such a gift shop, handing out magazines, and providing info as they come into hospital. Now interning or ex-terning for college you get more hands on experience and training. Either way you are still require to get a TB test done and depending on the Hospital and who they serve they may want you to do a fingerprint check to intern or ex-tern as well. I did have a fingerprint and background check done at one position. I was able to intern while and during the process as they did it and it did not require a lot of paperwork. If you plan ahead you can have all that done before you start interning or ex-terning.

Answer 3

Your best approach would be a local hospital. They are also the best for your admissions to the program for a reference letter and to help expose you to all different types of ages and disabilities. Call the Human Resource Department and they will get you set up.

Answer 4

Try a nursing home, a work hardening clinic, a day rehab program or the rehab unit of any major hospital in your area.

Answer 5

VA hospitals are almost always desperate for additional personnel, especially volunteers, and especially in therapy units.