Occupational therapists are skilled health care professionals who work with patients to regain or develop daily life skills.

As an occupational therapist, you can work in many areas from neonatal intensive care units to skilled nursing facilities, to help patients restore function. Occupational therapy is expected to experience rapid growth as a profession over the next decade as the demand for various services increases, especially among the aged.

You will be prepared to become a registered occupational therapist by taking the National Certification Examination for Occupational Therapists, administered by the National Board for the Certification of Occupational Therapists (NBCOT). Most states, including New York, require licensure to practice. State licensure is typically based on the results of the NBCOT certification exam, but must be applied for separately in the state in which you plan to practice.