Occupational Therapist Jobs in Maryland
If you’re searching for occupational therapist jobs in Maryland, some openings will likely be in schools. When you work alongside Pediatric Therapeutic Services (PTS), you can work in schools to help students thrive and become a greater part of their classroom.
If you want to learn more about school-based occupational therapist jobs in Maryland, read on!
How Do I Become a School-Based Occupational Therapist?
Most occupational therapist (OT) positions in Maryland require a degree in Occupational Therapy from an American Occupational Therapy Association or the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education certified school. You must also possess an occupational therapy license in order to work as an OT.
To earn an occupational therapy license, you must do the following:
- Complete at least six months of OT work experience as part of an internship under a licensed OT.
- Have two professional references to present to the board.
- Pass a criminal background check.
- Pass an examination.
Once you have your license, you must complete continuing education credits each year to renew and keep it active.
Skills That Can Make You a Great Occupational Therapist
There are some skills you can cultivate that can make you a great fit for a school-based OT position. These skills differ from ones you may acquire in school, but they are qualities that make you the best OT you can be.
Versatility is essential when working as an OT, especially in school. Students get discouraged and need more support on some days. You can help them emotionally adjust to completing occupational therapy exercises and create a positive environment for them to succeed. Various student abilities and age ranges may also dictate the available tools and exercises you can help them perform—be ready to adjust as needed.
Being communicative and collaborative is a big part of working as an OT in a school setting. You are likely working with administrators, teachers, and maybe parents to help students get the most out of their in-school OT. You’ll probably need to pass along updates on a student’s progress or brainstorm exercises and tasks that fit into lesson plans.
Benefits of Working as a School-Based Occupational Therapist
Working as an OT in a school is a rewarding experience. You get to watch students reach their goals and flourish in an environment with their peers.
When working alongside PTS in schools, you may have a variety of experiences at different schools that we partner with. Whether you work in the same school for a while or visit several, every day as a school-based OT is different. You’ll have different students to work with, challenges to address, and various daily wins.
As a school-based occupational therapist, your creativity and ingenuity can shine. Help students practice essential motor skills through crafting, painting, and other forms of creative expression. You can be part of a student’s journey to finding ways to self-regulate, express themselves, and become more independent.
Work Alongside PTS as a School-Based Occupational Therapist in Maryland
Working alongside PTS as a school-based occupational therapist can be rewarding for many who love to watch students learn and grow. Explore our current occupational therapist openings in Maryland and contact us if you find an opening that you may be a good fit for.
