Occupational therapists help people of all ages do the everyday activities (“occupations”) that matter to them, after injury or illness, with a disability, or as they age. About 162,450 OTs and 51,290 OT assistants work in the U.S., earning median wages of $100,330 and $72,300 (BLS, May 2025).
What occupational therapists do
- Evaluate how a condition affects someone’s ability to take care of themselves, learn, work or take part in their community.
- Set goals with the client and design interventions: practicing skills, adapting tasks, recommending equipment, and changing environments.
- Teach families and caregivers, and track progress.
OT vs. OTA
Occupational therapists lead evaluation and treatment planning. Occupational therapy assistants carry out treatment under an OT’s supervision. OTs need an entry-level master’s or OTD; OTAs need an accredited associate or bachelor’s.
Where OTs work
Common settings include hospitals, outpatient and hand-therapy clinics, schools and early intervention, skilled nursing and inpatient rehabilitation, home health, and mental and behavioral health programs. Many OTs specialize later through experience and board or specialty certifications.
Pay
Median pay is $100,330 for OTs and $72,300 for OTAs; the top 10% of OTs earn more than $131,950. Pay varies a lot by state. See salary by state.
Getting started
Is OT right for you? · How to become an OT · What is occupational therapy?