Advanced Career Education (ACE) Center at Hermitage

ACE @ Hermitage Instructor: Rebecca Mannion

If you are looking for a rewarding and fulfilling career that can make a difference in people's lives, you might want to consider becoming an occupational or physical therapist. These professionals help people recover from injuries, illnesses, disabilities, or aging-related conditions that affect their ability to perform daily activities. Occupational and physical therapists work with patients of all ages and backgrounds, providing them with personalized care and support. They also collaborate with other healthcare providers, such as doctors, nurses, and social workers, to ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients.

This course will introduce the student to the profession of physical and occupational therapists. The student will explore the practices and principles of the therapist in the healthcare field and will participate in clinical observations under the direct supervision of either a licensed physical or occupational therapist. The student will gain an understanding of rehabilitative care throughout the lifespan of the client. The student will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills and explore interests related to high-quality work-based learning opportunities and the various fields of study that they may seek after completing this course.

Upon completion of this course, the student can take a certification test to become a certified physical therapy aide and will demonstrate workplace readiness skills.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in occupational or physical therapy, you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree and a master’s or doctoral degree in your chosen field. You will also need to pass a national exam and obtain a license to practice in your state. Additionally, you will need to have strong communication, interpersonal, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. You will also need to have compassion, empathy, patience, and creativity.

A career in occupational or physical therapy can be challenging but also rewarding. You can make a positive impact on people’s lives by helping them achieve their goals and regain their independence. If you are passionate about helping others and want to learn more about this exciting profession, you can visit the websites of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) or the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) for more information.