Occupational Therapy in Canada
Occupational therapists in Canada work in hospitals, private practice clinics, and schools and under home care and community programs. They are tasked with developing programs for patients with psychological and emotional problems, developmental disorders, injuries, and diseases.
Therapists in Canada must be registered with the provincial regulatory body where they apply for employment. Over 42 percent work in ambulatory health care services. The majority of professionals find employment in research centers, recreation centers, correctional institutions, mental care homes, and nursing homes. Therapists also work in colleges and universities, rehabilitation centers, and long term care facilities. Some are employed in architectural firms, insurance companies, rehabilitation companies, and corporations. Others work in addiction centers, assistive technology programs, and daycare centers and are tasked with managing work-related injuries, chronic diseases, and disabilities. There are therapists working for the government in areas such as rehabilitation program development, health and vocational planning, accessibility, disability management and prevention, and health promotion.
Professionals with a degree in occupational therapy are also involved in independent research, and some teach at universities. Professionals working in the field of occupational therapy also specialize in social work, palliative care, and nursing. Close to 74 percent of all professionals are employed full-time, and only about 5 percent are self-employed. Over 99 percent of employees have a Bachelor Degree. Master's Degree entry-level programs are also offered. Some 65 percent of occupational therapists earn $50,000 and more, and the average annual income is $55,200. Just 4.9 percent earn $19.999 or less.