School-based OT job vs. outpatient: Which is right for you?

Choosing to be a school-based OT is very different from working in an outpatient setting. While the role of an occupational therapist (OT) is rewarding no matter where you work, there are some considerations as to what might best align with your personality and skillset.

The good news is that as an occupational therapist, your education and training likely set you up to support people of all ages. Many OTs feeling a calling to work in a pediatric setting, others like a mixed population of therapy patients.

The basics of becoming an OT. 

Just as a refresher, to become an occupational therapist, you earn a master’s degree in Occupational Therapy and complete the required fieldwork. 

You also pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam and apply for a license. This allows you to practice in either a classroom, where you’ll work with student throughout the school day, or as an outpatient provider. 

What's involved in school-based OT jobs?

School-based OTs work with students of all ages to help them develop physical, cognitive, and sensory skills that allow them to become more self-sufficient and obtain academic-based goals. A child may need occupational therapy for a number of reasons, including academic or social-emotional support, as they navigate their education. 

As a school-based OT, you can help children develop essential skills, with fun and engaging activities throughout their school day and in their classroom. They may need assistance keeping their desk space organized or regulating the transition from subject to subject.

You'll collaborate with the student’s school and participate in IEP (Independent Education Program) development and execution. The goal of a school-based OT is to work with children and their schools to help them be as successful and as independent as possible, while supporting their educational program. A school-based therapy work schedule coincides with the school calendar.

How is that different from outpatient OT roles?

As an outpatient OT, you may work with children and adults of all ages to address their overall well-being and help them become more self-sufficient as they navigate their day-to-day lives. This can include hand strength, rehabilitation, fine motor skills, sensory development, and more.

Outpatient OTs can also work with individuals as they acclimate to their life following an injury. Focusing on activities of daily living (ADLs) and making it possible to function independently is important. These services will occur in a clinic, where patients will work with the OT to use equipment and develop effective interventions. 

Grow your school-based OT career with Kelly Pediatric Therapy.

Before applying for an OT position, it’s important to understand your career goals and preferences—like whether to work with children or adults and in what setting you’d prefer to work. 

If you're looking to move forward in your professional career in a way that supports growth, balance, and impact—consider working with us as a school-based therapist.

When you work with Kelly Pediatric Therapy, you’ll enjoy competitive pay, compensation for documentation, access to mentorship, free professional development, and work-free nights, weekends, and holidays. 

Learn more about joining our team.