Resume Skills

February 27, 2025

45+ Best Occupational Therapy Skills to Put on Your Resume

by Sam Wright

Equip your resume with these top occupational therapist skills and land your dream role.

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To land your dream job as an occupational therapist, you need more than just clinical expertise—you must effectively highlight your skills on your resume. Employers seek professionals who can assess patient needs, develop treatment plans, and collaborate with healthcare teams. This guide covers essential occupational therapy skills, including rehabilitation techniques, patient communication, and adaptive equipment training. Whether you're a seasoned therapist or just starting out, knowing how to present your skills can set you apart in a competitive job market and help you secure the right opportunity.

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Essential Hard Skills for Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapists need a robust set of hard skills to provide effective care and treatment. These technical abilities form the backbone of your professional expertise. Let's explore the key hard skills that every occupational therapist should highlight on their resume:

Clinical Assessment

Ability to evaluate patients' physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities using standardized tests and observation techniques.

Occupational Therapist, Clinical Evaluator, Rehabilitation Specialist

Treatment Planning

Expertise in developing comprehensive, individualized treatment plans based on assessment results and patient goals.

Occupational Therapist, Rehabilitation Coordinator, Therapy Program Manager

Adaptive Equipment Knowledge

Proficiency in selecting, fitting, and teaching patients to use adaptive equipment and assistive technology.

Occupational Therapist, Assistive Technology Specialist, Rehabilitation Equipment Consultant

Documentation

Ability to maintain accurate, detailed, and timely patient records, progress notes, and treatment plans.

Occupational Therapist, Clinical Documentation Specialist, Therapy Services Coordinator

Medical Condition Expertise

In-depth understanding of various medical conditions, disabilities, and their impact on daily functioning.

Occupational Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist, Disability Management Consultant

Mastering these hard skills is essential for providing top-notch care to your patients. Be sure to highlight specific examples of how you've applied these skills in your previous roles.

Showcase Your Hard Skills

Crucial Soft Skills for Occupational Therapy Professionals

While technical expertise is vital, soft skills are equally important in occupational therapy. These interpersonal and emotional intelligence skills can make a significant difference in patient outcomes and your overall effectiveness as a therapist. Here are the key soft skills to emphasize on your occupational therapist resume:

Empathy

Ability to understand and share the feelings of patients, providing compassionate care and support.

Occupational Therapist, Patient Care Coordinator, Rehabilitation Counselor

Communication

Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effectively interacting with patients, families, and healthcare teams.

Occupational Therapist, Patient Educator, Therapy Team Lead

Problem-Solving

Ability to identify challenges and develop creative solutions to help patients overcome obstacles in their daily lives.

Occupational Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist, Adaptive Solutions Consultant

Patience

Capacity to remain calm and supportive during challenging situations and when working with patients who progress slowly.

Occupational Therapist, Long-Term Care Specialist, Pediatric Therapy Provider

Adaptability

Flexibility to adjust treatment approaches and strategies based on patient needs and changing circumstances.

Occupational Therapist, Multi-Setting Practitioner, Therapy Program Developer

Integrating these soft skills into your resume can demonstrate your well-rounded approach to occupational therapy and your ability to connect with patients on a deeper level.

Showcase Your Soft Skills

Technical Skills for Modern Occupational Therapists

In today's digital age, occupational therapists must be proficient in various technical skills to provide efficient and effective care. Showcasing these skills on your resume can set you apart as a forward-thinking professional. Here are the key technical skills to highlight as an occupational therapist:

Electronic Health Records (EHR)

Proficiency in using EHR systems for patient documentation, treatment planning, and interdisciplinary communication.

Occupational Therapist, EHR Specialist, Clinical Informatics Coordinator

Telehealth

Ability to conduct remote therapy sessions using video conferencing and other digital platforms.

Telehealth Occupational Therapist, Virtual Rehabilitation Specialist, Remote Care Provider

Therapy Software

Experience with specialized therapy software for assessment, treatment planning, and progress tracking.

Occupational Therapist, Digital Therapy Specialist, Rehabilitation Technology Coordinator

Data Analysis

Capability to analyze patient data and outcomes to inform treatment decisions and demonstrate therapy effectiveness.

Occupational Therapist, Outcomes Researcher, Quality Improvement Specialist

By highlighting these technical skills, you demonstrate your ability to leverage modern tools and technologies in your occupational therapy practice, making you a valuable asset to potential employers.

Optimize Your Resume

Specialized Occupational Therapy Skills by Practice Area

Occupational therapy encompasses various specialized areas of practice, each requiring unique skills. Tailoring your resume to highlight skills specific to your area of expertise can make you stand out to employers. Let's explore essential skills for different occupational therapy specialties:

Pediatric Occupational Therapy Skills

Working with children requires a unique set of occupational therapy skills. Here are key abilities to showcase for pediatric occupational therapy:

Developmental Assessment

Expertise in evaluating children's developmental milestones and identifying delays or challenges.

Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Child Development Specialist, Early Intervention Therapist

Play-Based Therapy

Ability to incorporate play into therapeutic interventions to engage and motivate young patients.

Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Play Therapist, Child Life Specialist

Sensory Integration

Knowledge of sensory processing disorders and techniques to address sensory challenges in children.

Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Sensory Integration Specialist, Autism Spectrum Disorder Therapist

Geriatric Occupational Therapy Skills

Specializing in geriatric care requires skills tailored to the needs of older adults. Here are essential occupational therapy skills for this area:

Fall Prevention

Expertise in assessing fall risks and implementing strategies to prevent falls in older adults.

Geriatric Occupational Therapist, Fall Prevention Specialist, Home Safety Consultant

Cognitive Rehabilitation

Ability to develop and implement interventions for cognitive decline and memory issues.

Geriatric Occupational Therapist, Cognitive Rehabilitation Specialist, Dementia Care Therapist

Aging in Place

Knowledge of home modifications and adaptive strategies to support independent living for seniors.

Geriatric Occupational Therapist, Aging in Place Specialist, Home Modification Consultant

Mental Health Occupational Therapy Skills

Mental health occupational therapy requires a unique skill set. Here are key occupational therapy abilities to highlight:

Psychosocial Intervention

Proficiency in implementing therapeutic interventions for mental health conditions and emotional well-being.

Mental Health Occupational Therapist, Psychosocial Rehabilitation Specialist, Behavioral Health Therapist

Group Therapy Facilitation

Ability to lead and manage therapeutic groups for individuals with mental health challenges.

Mental Health Occupational Therapist, Group Therapy Facilitator, Community Mental Health Specialist

Stress Management Techniques

Expertise in teaching coping strategies and relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety.

Mental Health Occupational Therapist, Stress Management Specialist, Mindfulness-Based Therapist

Physical Rehabilitation Occupational Therapy Skills

Physical rehabilitation occupational therapy focuses on restoring physical function. Here are crucial occupational therapy skills for this specialty:

Manual Therapy

Proficiency in hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and enhance function.

Physical Rehabilitation Occupational Therapist, Manual Therapy Specialist, Orthopedic Rehabilitation Therapist

Functional Capacity Evaluation

Ability to assess a patient's physical capabilities and limitations for work or daily activities.

Physical Rehabilitation Occupational Therapist, Functional Capacity Evaluator, Work Hardening Specialist

Prosthetic Training

Expertise in helping patients adapt to and effectively use prosthetic devices.

Physical Rehabilitation Occupational Therapist, Prosthetic Rehabilitation Specialist, Amputation Care Therapist

By tailoring your resume to highlight occupational therapy skills specific to your area of expertise, you demonstrate your specialized knowledge and make a stronger case for your candidacy in that particular field of occupational therapy.

Tailor Your Resume

Emerging Skills for Future-Ready Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapy is constantly evolving, with new technologies and approaches emerging. Staying ahead of the curve by developing these cutting-edge occupational therapy skills can make you a highly sought-after professional. Here are some emerging occupational therapy skills to consider adding to your occupational therapist resume:

Virtual Reality (VR) Therapy

Ability to incorporate VR technologies into treatment plans for immersive and engaging therapy sessions.

VR Occupational Therapist, Digital Rehabilitation Specialist, Immersive Therapy Coordinator

3D Printing for Adaptive Equipment

Knowledge of 3D printing technology to create customized adaptive devices and assistive technology.

Adaptive Technology Specialist, 3D Printing OT, Custom Equipment Designer

Robotics in Rehabilitation

Experience with robotic devices and exoskeletons for enhancing mobility and function in patients.

Robotic Rehabilitation Therapist, Exoskeleton Specialist, Advanced Mobility OT

Neurotechnology

Understanding of brain-computer interfaces and neurofeedback techniques for cognitive and physical rehabilitation.

Neuro-Occupational Therapist, Brain-Computer Interface Specialist, Cognitive Enhancement Therapist

By developing and showcasing these emerging skills, you position yourself as a forward-thinking occupational therapist ready to embrace the future of the profession. Employers are often eager to bring on board professionals who can introduce innovative approaches to patient care.

Upgrade Your Resume

Certifications and Specializations to Enhance Your Occupational Therapy Resume

Certifications and specializations can significantly boost your occupational therapy resume, demonstrating your commitment to professional growth and expertise in specific areas. Here are some valuable certifications to consider as an occupational therapist:

Occupational Therapist Board Certifications

Board certifications are advanced credentials that showcase your expertise in a particular area of occupational therapy. Some notable occupational therapist board certifications include:

  1. Board Certified in Gerontology (BCG): Demonstrates advanced knowledge in working with older adults.
  2. Board Certified in Mental Health (BCMH): Showcases expertise in mental health occupational therapy.
  3. Board Certified in Pediatrics (BCP): Highlights advanced skills in working with children and youth.
  4. Board Certified in Physical Rehabilitation (BCPR): Indicates specialized knowledge in physical rehabilitation.

Specialty Certifications for Occupational Therapists

Specialty certifications focus on specific techniques or areas of practice within occupational therapy. Consider adding these occupational therapy skills to your resume:

  1. Certified Hand Therapist (CHT): Specialized certification for upper extremity rehabilitation.
  2. Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT): Expertise in treating lymphedema and related conditions.
  3. Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS): Specialization in driver rehabilitation and vehicle modifications.
  4. Certified Autism Specialist (CAS): Advanced knowledge in working with individuals on the autism spectrum.

Continuing Education Courses for Occupational Therapists

Highlighting relevant continuing education courses for occupational therapists can demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the field. Some valuable areas for continuing education include:

  1. Sensory Integration: Advanced training in sensory processing and integration techniques.
  2. Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT): Specialized approach for treating individuals with neurological challenges.
  3. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Training in incorporating CBT techniques into occupational therapy practice.
  4. Assistive Technology: Courses on the latest adaptive equipment and technological aids for patients.

Adding these certifications and specializations to your resume can set you apart from other candidates and showcase your dedication to professional excellence in occupational therapy.

Add Your Certifications to Your Resume

Showcasing Occupational Therapy Skills on Your Resume

Now that we've explored the essential skills for occupational therapists, let's discuss how to effectively present these occupational therapy skills on your resume. A well-crafted occupational therapy skills section can make a significant impact on potential employers.

Tailoring Your Occupational Therapy Skills Section to Job Descriptions

When applying for occupational therapy positions, it's crucial to tailor your skills section to match the specific requirements of each job. Here's how to do it effectively:

  1. Analyze the Job Description: Carefully read the job posting and identify key skills and qualifications sought by the employer.
  2. Match Your Skills: Align your skills with those mentioned in the job description, using similar language where appropriate.
  3. Prioritize Relevant Skills: Place the most relevant skills for the position at the top of your skills section.
  4. Use Keywords: Incorporate industry-specific keywords to optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Incorporating Your Occupational Therapy Skills into Your Work Experience

While a dedicated skills section is important, weaving your occupational therapy skills throughout your work experience can provide context and demonstrate practical application. Here's how to do it:

  1. Process Improvement & Efficiency: Implemented new patient intake procedures that streamlined the onboarding process, reducing wait times by 25% and improving patient satisfaction scores.
  2. Patient Education & Engagement: Developed educational resources for patients on disease management, resulting in a 20% increase in patient engagement and better health outcomes.
  3. Interdisciplinary Care Coordination: Coordinated interdisciplinary team meetings to improve care coordination, leading to a 15% reduction in hospital readmission rates.

Quantifying Your Occupational Therapy Achievements with Metrics

Adding measurable results to your resume can significantly strengthen your skills presentation. Here are some ways to quantify your occupational therapy achievements:

  1. Patient Outcomes: Improved patient functional independence scores by an average of 30% through targeted interventions.
  2. Efficiency Metrics: Reduced patient treatment time by 20% while maintaining high-quality care through streamlined assessment processes.
  3. Caseload Management: Successfully managed a caseload of 40+ patients per week, consistently meeting all treatment goals and documentation deadlines.
  4. Program Development: Developed and implemented a new hand therapy program, resulting in a 25% increase in referrals within six months.

By effectively showcasing your occupational therapy skills on your resume, you create a compelling narrative of your professional capabilities and increase your chances of landing your desired position.

Optimize Your Resume

Skills for Top Occupational Therapy Job Titles

Different occupational therapy roles may require specific skill sets. Here's a breakdown of essential skills for some top occupational therapy job titles:

Pediatric Occupational Therapist

Pediatric occupational therapists work with children to develop their motor skills, cognitive abilities, and social interaction. Key occupational therapy skills for this role include:

Developmental AssessmentSensory IntegrationPlay-Based TherapyFine Motor Skill DevelopmentSchool-Based InterventionFamily EducationAdaptive Equipment for ChildrenBehavioral Management

Hand Therapist

Hand therapists specialize in treating conditions affecting the hands and upper extremities. Essential occupational therapy skills for this role include:

Upper Extremity AnatomyManual Therapy TechniquesCustom Splint FabricationWound CareScar ManagementPost-Surgical RehabilitationErgonomic AssessmentPain Management

School-Based Occupational Therapist

School-based OTs work within educational settings to help students participate fully in school activities. Key occupational therapy skills for this role include:

IEP DevelopmentClassroom AdaptationHandwriting InterventionAssistive Technology for EducationSensory Processing in Classroom SettingsBehavior ManagementCollaborative TeachingSpecial Education Laws and Regulations

Acute Care Occupational Therapist

Acute care OTs work in hospital settings, providing short-term interventions for patients with acute medical conditions. Essential occupational therapy skills include:

Early Mobilization TechniquesDischarge PlanningADL Assessment in Hospital SettingsMedical Equipment ManagementInfection Control ProceduresInterdisciplinary Team CollaborationRapid Intervention StrategiesCrisis Management

Home Health Occupational Therapist

Home health OTs provide therapy services in patients' homes. Key occupational therapy skills for this role include:

Home Safety AssessmentEnvironmental ModificationCaregiver TrainingAdaptive Equipment for Home UseFall Prevention StrategiesChronic Disease ManagementTelehealth Service DeliveryIndependent Living Skills Training

By tailoring your resume to highlight the specific occupational therapy skills relevant to your target job title, you can position yourself as an ideal candidate for that particular role.

Tailor Your Resume

Developing and Maintaining Occupational Therapy Skills

Continuous skill development is crucial for staying competitive and providing the best possible care in occupational therapy. Here are some strategies for developing and maintaining your occupational therapy skills:

Continuing Education and Professional Development

Engaging in ongoing learning is essential for keeping your occupational therapy skills sharp and staying up-to-date with the latest developments in occupational therapy. Consider these approaches:

  1. Attend Workshops and Conferences: Participate in professional events to learn about new techniques and network with peers.
  2. Online Courses: Take advantage of e-learning platforms offering specialized OT courses and certifications.
  3. Webinars: Attend virtual seminars on specific topics to enhance your knowledge in targeted areas.
  4. In-Service Training: Participate in workplace training sessions to learn from colleagues and stay current with institutional practices.

Networking and Professional Associations for Occupational Therapists

Connecting with other professionals can provide valuable opportunities for occupational therapy skill development and career growth:

  1. Join Professional Organizations: Become a member of associations like the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) for access to resources and networking opportunities.
  2. Attend Local OT Meetups: Participate in local professional gatherings to share experiences and learn from peers.
  3. Engage in Online Forums: Join online communities and discussion groups focused on occupational therapy to exchange ideas and stay informed.
  4. Mentorship Programs: Seek out a mentor or become one yourself to foster professional growth and skill development.

Staying Current with Research and Best Practices

Keeping abreast of the latest research and evidence-based practices is crucial for maintaining and improving your occupational therapy skills:

  1. Subscribe to Professional Journals: Regularly read publications like the American Journal of Occupational Therapy to stay informed about new research and techniques.
  2. Participate in Research: Get involved in research projects or clinical trials to deepen your understanding and contribute to the field.
  3. Evidence-Based Practice: Implement the latest evidence-based interventions in your practice and track outcomes.
  4. Interdisciplinary Learning: Explore related fields like physical therapy or psychology to broaden your perspective and skill set.

By actively engaging in these development activities, you can ensure that your occupational therapy skills remain current and continue to evolve throughout your career.

Elevate Your Resume

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Listing Occupational Therapy Skills

When crafting your occupational therapy resume, it's important to avoid common pitfalls that can detract from your professional presentation. Here are some key mistakes to watch out for:

Overloading Your Resume with Generic Occupational Therapy Skills

While it's tempting to list every occupational therapy skill you possess, this approach can dilute the impact of your most relevant abilities. Instead:

  1. Focus on Quality Over Quantity: Highlight your most impressive and relevant skills rather than creating an exhaustive list.
  2. Tailor Skills to the Job: Emphasize skills that directly align with the requirements of the position you're applying for.
  3. Use Specific OT Terminology: Replace generic terms with industry-specific language that demonstrates your expertise.
  4. Provide Context: When possible, briefly explain how you've applied each skill in real-world situations.

Neglecting to Prioritize Relevant Skills

Not all skills carry equal weight for every position. To make your resume more impactful:

  1. Analyze the Job Description: Identify the most crucial skills for the specific role and list these prominently.
  2. Create a Skills Hierarchy: Organize your skills with the most important and relevant ones at the top.
  3. Update for Each Application: Adjust your skills section for each job application to highlight the most pertinent abilities.
  4. Consider a Core Competencies Section: Create a separate section for your most crucial skills to draw immediate attention.

Failing to Provide Context for Your Occupational Therapy Skills

Simply listing occupational therapy skills without context can leave employers wondering about your level of proficiency. To avoid this:

  1. Use Concrete Examples: Provide brief examples of how you've applied each skill in your work.
  2. Quantify Your Achievements: Where possible, use numbers to demonstrate the impact of your skills (e.g., "Improved patient outcomes by 25% using sensory integration techniques").
  3. Indicate Proficiency Levels: For technical skills, consider noting your level of expertise (e.g., "Advanced proficiency in EMR systems").
  4. Link Skills to Accomplishments: In your work experience section, connect your skills to specific achievements and responsibilities.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a more compelling and effective presentation of your occupational therapy skills on your resume, increasing your chances of landing your desired position.

Perfect Your Resume

Expert Tips for Highlighting Occupational Therapy Skills in Interviews

While your resume showcases your occupational therapy skills on paper, interviews provide an opportunity to bring these skills to life. Here are some expert tips for effectively highlighting your occupational therapy skills during job interviews:

Preparing STAR Method Responses

The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is an excellent framework for structuring your responses to behavioral interview questions. Here's how to use it to highlight your OT skills:

  1. Situation: Briefly describe the context or challenge you faced.
  2. Task: Explain what was required of you in that situation.
  3. Action: Detail the specific actions you took, emphasizing the skills you used.
  4. Result: Share the positive outcomes of your actions, quantifying results if possible.

Practice using the STAR method to showcase different skills, such as problem-solving, patient care, or interdisciplinary collaboration.

Demonstrating Your Occupational Therapy Skills Through Case Studies

Prepare detailed case studies that illustrate your application of occupational therapy skills in real-world scenarios:

  1. Choose Diverse Examples: Select cases that demonstrate a range of skills and patient populations.
  2. Focus on Process and Outcomes: Explain your clinical reasoning and how your interventions led to positive patient outcomes.
  3. Highlight Adaptability: Discuss how you modified your approach to meet unique patient needs or overcome challenges.
  4. Emphasize Interprofessional Collaboration: Showcase your ability to work effectively with other healthcare professionals.

Addressing Skill Gaps and Learning Potential

If you lack certain occupational therapy skills mentioned in the job description, be prepared to address this proactively:

  1. Acknowledge the Gap: Be honest about skills you're still developing.
  2. Emphasize Transferable Skills: Explain how your existing skills can be applied to new areas.
  3. Highlight Learning Agility: Discuss your ability to quickly acquire new skills and provide examples of past rapid learning.
  4. Express Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in developing the skills needed for the role.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively showcase your occupational therapy skills during interviews, demonstrating not just your current abilities but also your potential for growth and excellence in the role.

Craft a Perfect Resume

Conclusion

Effectively showcasing your occupational therapy skills is key to advancing your career. Employers look for professionals who not only have technical expertise but also the ability to adapt, problem-solve, and provide patient-centered care. Keep your resume focused on relevant skills, using concrete examples to highlight your impact. Stay up to date with industry trends, seek professional development opportunities, and refine your expertise to remain competitive in the field. Whether you're entering the profession or aiming for career growth, strategic skill development will help you land your dream job.

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