Jobs in Developmental Therapy
Developmental therapists, also known as occupational therapists, work in many atmospheres with people of all ages. Their goal is to assist those with mental, physical, or other barrier-producing disabilities in obtaining the skills needed to live a full life. This industry pays well but also requires a good deal of preparation and training to be recognized as a participating member.
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On the Job
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The main focus of a developmental therapist is to help a patient identify and overcome challenges that hinder her from living a fully satisfying and productive life. This is done by first developing an Activities for Daily Living (ADL) plan. This plan may include such tasks as getting dressed, feeding oneself, grooming, bathing, and cleaning. Once these basic goals are met, if necessary, the therapist moves on to assisting the patient with learning skills for functioning outside the home: employment skills, socializing, and taking part in leisure activities.
Wage Range
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary of a developmental therapist is between $50,000 and $75,000, depending upon the setting in which she works (2006 data). The bottom 10 percent in this field earn less than $40,000 with the top earners earning around $90,000. Wages vary due to work setting and geographic location. Typically, however, wages are in line with the level of education an occupational therapist has attained.
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Career Preparation
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The requirements for jobs in developmental therapy differ depending on what level of work a person wishes to do. For assistant therapists the education requirement is a two-year associate's degree whereas, according to the BLS, as of 2007 all new therapists must have a master's degree. Other requirements that are common to both levels of work are a period of supervised fieldwork and passing of the national certification exam.
Job Settings
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Developmental therapy offers different work atmospheres. The top settings for this type of occupation include home health care facilities and nursing homes as well as the private offices of developmental, speech, and physical therapists. Jobs can also be found at regular medical/surgical hospitals and elementary and secondary schools.
Related Occupations
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Other professionals in the developmental therapy field have some of the same challenges as occupational therapists. Some of these occupations include physical therapists and speech and language pathologists. Rehabilitation counselors also assist clients in the same manner.
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