If I want to be an occupational therapist specificly for autistic children, what kind of degree do I need?

Question

i'm homeschooled so i dont have a guidance counsoler or anything.

Answer 1

I take my son to an O.T. and he is on the autism spectrum.  However, the O.T. works with ALL kinds of kids, not just autistic ones. you will definately have to study anatomy.

Answer 2

If you get a job in a school for autism-you will only work with kids with autism.

occupational therapy has nothing to do with a pychology degree-

you need a background in anatomy-

you can get an undergrad degree in a health/science related field or education and then get your masters in occupational therapy.

An OT works on everything from play skills to occupational skills including sensory and fine motor needs.

There is also a COTA (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant)

Answer 3

Talk to an advisor at your school, they will be able to steer you in the right direction.  I would say it's probably going to be some kind of psychology degree, and they will probably want you to take social work classes.  You really should speak with someone at the school though.

Answer 4

In the United States, you must receive a bachelor's of science degree in OT before you are eligible to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) and become a registered OT (OTR).

If you decide to become an OT your job choices are limitless as there are very few certified OT's!

Answer 5

You might want to check with the college you will be going to, or call and inquire.  Probably a "Occupational Therapist" license.  I believe there is such a name.?

Answer 6

Occupational therapy.  You won't be able to work with autistic children 100% of the time.  Sorry.

Edit - There are very, very few schools that serve autistic kids exclusively.  Even then you may not work only at that school.  Typically occupational therapists are employed by a contracting agency or a school system.  Children's rehab centers may be a place of interest to you, too. You really should look into what it takes to be certified as an occupational therapist in your state and realize that may change.  In my state you can work with only your bachelor's degree, (four years).  A master's level is desirable though.  A therapist assistant is not always the best route when planning  a career.  There isn't much flexibility and those jobs are dwindling.

Answer 7

An Occupational Therapist degree. That will allow you to be an occupational therapist. You should then be able to specialise in what type of disorders you want to work with.