Any Occupational Therapists on here? Can I ask you some questions please?

[peggotty]

I am considering applying to do an occupational therapy course at university. I think I fit the criteria to be an occupational therapist in a number of ways: empathy, sensitivity, observant, practical, enjoy problem solving etc, but I worry that as I am not an extrovert I won't be able to do it. Can you tell me if it's necessary to be really outgoing to have OT as a career? I have been a SAHM for 7 years which has definitely sapped my confidence, so I don't know if I am making a mountain out of a molehill over this issue. I've seen necessary OT qualities being described as being a 'people person' which is definitely not me, although I do think I would enjoy helping people to gain independence. Any opinions please?!

[AgentProvocateur]

I'm not an OT, but two of my friends are, and they are definitely not extroverts. They're calm, kind, empathetic people who are good at listening and non-judgmental. Hope this helps.

[peggotty]

Thanks agent, that is useful, although I really can't describe myself as calm unfortunately

[peggotty]

A bump for any OTs who may be around this morning!

[aftereight]

Not an OT but just to second what Agent said.
I do know that there are v few OT job vacancies around in the NHS at the moment, but hopefully by the time you qualify this will not be the case.
I have a close relative who did an OT degree in her 40s and half of the students on her course were mature students. Most of the work is one to one so you don't need to be very outgoing.

[bridgingtheabyss]

I work alongside OTs and I wouldn't say you have to be an extrovert. As long as you like some interaction with people you'll be fine.

[peggotty]

All really helpful- thanks all

[Idasonions]

I may know an OT who works for a local authority and carries out Uni interviews for the OT applicants.

I would suggest getting some sort of experience - most are happy for someone to shadow them for a day or 2 to see exactly what the job entails. This also helps the application. OT's work in a wide range of settings. What were you interested in ?

Pm me for any specific questions

[peggotty]

THanks Ida, have pm'd you

[desperatetosell]

Hi

I am currently doing an OT course! I am def not an extrovert and TBH not many on the course are.

They were looking for empathy, warmth, communication and interpersonal skills and I would certainly agree in getting some shadowing experience. It will really help! PM me if you like and I can talk you through my interview experiences.

[peggotty]

Desperatetosell, thanks, I have PM'd you.

[sneakybeak]

Here I am again (from employment issues thread)

I think that extrovert isn't the kind of default personality for an OT. I think of being an extrovert as more suited to sales, or drama teaching maybe?

I think being cool in a crisis is a good skill, although it took me years to learn this. I also did take things personally when clients were sometimes rude blunt.

I completely believe in OT, and I can't imagine doing anything else really.