Resume Examples for Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy resumes and CVs change depending on whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience. Review templates for each stage and use our Resume Builder to tailor your application.

Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Resume

Ideal for recent graduates and those transitioning into occupational therapy, this template provides a solid foundation for crafting a compelling resume with no experience that highlights your skills and dedication to patient care.

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Why this resume works:

This resume example showcases a solid educational background with a master’s degree in occupational therapy from New York University, highlighting academic excellence.

Mid-Career Occupational Therapy Resume

A smart choice for mid-level professionals seeking to emphasize their experience and career growth, this template effectively showcases recent accomplishments and specialized skills in occupational therapy.

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Why this resume works:

Action verbs like “improved,” “designed,” and “implemented” reflect active engagement in patient rehabilitation. Metrics such as “increased client satisfaction by 40%” and “improved ergonomic practices, reducing injuries by 20%” showcase strong contributions through concise bullet points.

Experienced Occupational Therapy Resume

An ideal choice for occupational therapists with over 10 years of experience, this template supports professionals seeking advanced clinical roles or leadership opportunities in rehabilitation settings.

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Why this resume works:

This resume effectively showcases over 14 years of experience in occupational therapy, prominently featuring a reverse-chronological work history that highlights the applicant’s extensive clinical background. Education is strategically placed lower on the resume, emphasizing that hands-on experience and demonstrated results are more valuable to hiring managers than academic credentials at this stage in their career.

Occupational Therapy Resume Template (Text)

Use this customizable text template for an occupational therapy position to copy, paste, and modify directly in your document.

David Liu

Chicago, IL 60607

Professional Summary

Experienced Occupational Therapist with a focus on patient-centered care, improving recovery rates by up to 30%. Expert in developing individualized therapy plans and leading teams. Skilled in innovative therapies, enhancing client satisfaction through advanced techniques and communication.

Work Experience

March 2023 – March 2026

VitalCare Therapy Center – Chicago, IL

Occupational Therapist

  • Enhanced patient recovery by 30% through tailored plans
  • Led a team to improve therapy accuracy by 15%
  • Developed a new patient feedback system, raising satisfaction to 90%

March 2018 – February 2023

WellPath Health Services – Chicago, IL

Rehabilitation Specialist

  • Reduced treatment times by 20% using advanced methodologies
  • Collaborated on a project, improving efficiency by 25%
  • Trained new staff, enhancing service delivery by 35%

March 2017 – February 2018

Sunrise Rehab Center – Chicago, IL

Therapy Assistant

  • Assisted in patient recuperation, increasing mobility by 10%
  • Organized workshops, boosting participation by 45%
  • Managed patient schedules, improving appointment adherence by 20%

Education

May 2016
University of Illinois Champaign, IL
Master of Science Occupational Therapy

May 2014
Illinois State University Normal, IL
Bachelor of Science Kinesiology

Certifications

  • Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant – National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
  • Advanced Pediatric Therapy Certification – American Occupational Therapy Association

Skills

  • Patient Assessment
  • Rehabilitation Techniques
  • Therapy Plan Development
  • Team Leadership
  • Advanced Therapeutic Methods
  • Client Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Creativity in Therapy

How to Write an Occupational Therapy Resume

As an occupational therapist, understanding how to write a resume involves combining your clinical skills and relevant experience with a clear format that highlights why you’re the right fit for the job. Use the guidance below to emphasize your strengths and tailor your resume for the specific positions you’re aiming for.

1. Contact Info

Your contact information should be prominent, professional, and easily accessible at the top of your resume.

Include the following essential information:

  • Full name (include relevant certifications)
  • Phone number
  • Professional email address
  • City and state (ZIP code is optional)
  • LinkedIn profile or field-specific portfolio (if applicable)
TipPRO TIP

Avoid including personal details such as your Social Security number, age, or religious affiliation on your resume unless specifically requested by the employer.

2. Resume Profile

A resume profile is a concise paragraph of two to four sentences that introduces you and highlights your key qualifications. It functions as an engaging pitch to hiring managers, capturing their interest and motivating them to explore your resume further.

Placed at the top of your resume, the profile can be either a summary or an objective. While both offer a snapshot of your professional identity, they serve different roles in setting the tone for your application:

  • A resume summary highlights essential qualifications, specialized skills, and significant accomplishments relevant to occupational therapy. This format benefits those with prior experience or transferable skills aiming to spotlight their contributions as skilled occupational therapists.
  • A resume objective highlights your career aspirations and outlines what you aim to achieve in your next role. It’s particularly helpful for recent graduates, those transitioning into occupational therapy, or individuals with limited experience seeking to showcase their passion and goals.

Let’s explore the differences between a resume summary and a resume objective through these examples:

Occupational therapy resume summary example:

Dedicated occupational therapist with over 6 years of experience in diverse clinical settings, including rehabilitation centers and outpatient clinics. Proficient in developing individualized treatment plans, improving patient mobility, and facilitating adaptive strategies. Recognized for fostering patient independence and achieving significant improvements in functional outcomes.

Occupational therapy resume objective example:

Recent graduate with a master’s degree in occupational therapy excited to launch a career in a collaborative healthcare environment. Committed to improving patient independence and well-being, bringing strong interpersonal skills and adaptability to rehabilitation centers or community health organizations.

3. Work Experience

The work experience on your resume is a critical foundation for your job application. Employers examine your history to evaluate not only where you’ve worked but also the measurable contributions you’ve made in those roles.

Your background in occupational therapy illustrates how your skills and experiences align with the role you’re aiming to secure.

The work experience section should contain:

  • Job title
  • Employer name and location
  • Dates of employment (month/year)
  • 3–5 bullet points describing your therapy techniques and patient progress achievements

To improve your work experience bullet points, focus on customizing your content to align with the job you seek. Begin each statement with a strong action verb relevant to occupational therapy, such as “Assessed,” “Facilitated,” or “Developed.”

Incorporate quantifiable outcomes or metrics into your descriptions. Showcasing specific achievements, like improving patient recovery rates by 20%, can effectively highlight your impact and set you apart from other job seekers.

In general, consider following the format of:

[action verb] + [responsibility] = [result/achievement]

For example:

Implemented personalized therapy plans for 30+ clients weekly, resulting in a 95% goal achievement rate based on client progress assessments.

Note that you can also flip the result/achievement with the responsibility:

Increased client functional independence by 20% through targeted intervention strategies and regular progress evaluations.

Explore more work experience examples for occupational therapists further down the page.

4. Skills

The skills section offers a concise overview of your professional abilities in occupational therapy, highlighting expertise relevant to the role. This part of your ATS-friendly resume allows hiring managers to quickly assess your qualifications.

Skills can be categorized into three key areas:

  • Soft skills are personal qualities that influence how well professionals interact and collaborate with others. In occupational therapy, important soft skills include empathy, communication, problem-solving, and patience.
  • Hard skills are specific, measurable abilities gained through education, training, or direct experience. For occupational therapy, examples include developing treatment plans, conducting assessments of patient needs, and using therapeutic techniques to improve client mobility.
  • Technical skills refer to the specific abilities required to operate specialized tools and equipment in a profession. In occupational therapy, this includes knowledge of adaptive devices, therapeutic modalities, and assessment software for evaluating patient progress.

In general, aim to include a well-rounded selection of skills that directly match the job requirements. For more specific examples tailored to occupational therapy, please explore the soft and hard skills listed further down the page.

TipPRO TIP

If you’re a newer occupational therapy professional, consider placing your skills section higher on the resume, right after your summary. For those with more experience, it’s better to position this section lower and weave your skills throughout your work history.

5. Education

Understanding how to list education on your resume is important for showcasing your qualifications. Begin with your most recent or relevant occupational therapy degree, clearly stating the degree type and institution name.

If you’re a recent graduate, consider including your graduation year, GPA (if it’s 3.5 or above), any honors received, and relevant coursework to improve your profile.

Occupational therapy resume education section example:

Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT)
New York University, New York, NY
Graduated: 2024 | Graduated with Distinction

TipPRO TIP

When listing your degrees on a resume, be sure to arrange them in reverse-chronological order, showcasing your highest degree first, such as Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), followed by Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT).

6. Certifications

Certifications reflect your expertise and commitment to staying informed in occupational therapy. While they may not always be included in a standard resume, this section is important for many professionals, especially those seeking specialized roles such as pediatric or geriatric therapy. Employers often look for specific credentials when hiring for advanced positions, making it essential to highlight them.

List certifications on your resume that improve your qualifications. Keep these credentials current and present them in a clear format to make a strong impression.

Occupational therapy certification examples:

  • Occupational Therapist License, California | California Board of Occupational Therapy | Expires: 01/2028
  • Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) | NBCOT | Expires: 09/2027
  • Pediatric Specialty Certification (PSC) | AOTA | Expires: 03/2028
  • Neurodevelopmental Treatment Certificate (NDT) | NDTA | Expires: 11/2027

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Tailor Your Work History to Beat the ATS

Your work experience section goes beyond listing job titles. It serves as an opportunity to demonstrate the significant impact you’ve made in your field through specific, measurable achievements. This approach not only highlights your professional contributions but also results in a more ATS-friendly resume that applicant tracking systems (ATS) can easily scan.

To create a compelling work history, tailor your entries to align with the position you’re pursuing by incorporating relevant keywords. Begin by carefully reviewing the job description for recurring skills and responsibilities. Then, reflect those key elements within your experience descriptions to increase your chances of capturing the employer’s attention.

These examples are pulled from our most-used entries in the resume builder—based on what hiring managers respond to most.

  • Implemented individualized therapy plans for 25+ patients weekly, improving functional independence by 20%.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive rehabilitation strategies, improving patient outcomes.
  • Provided mentorship to junior therapists, resulting in improved team efficiency and service delivery.
  • Used Telehealth platforms to conduct remote assessments for 15 patients per week, increasing access to care by 30%.
  • Evaluated patient progress through standardized assessments, enabling timely adjustments to therapy plans.

Example of Skills for Occupational Therapy

Including the right skills for your resume demonstrates to employers and ATS that you possess the essential abilities needed for success in occupational therapy. Resumes are often scanned quickly, so it’s best to keep your skills section focused, relevant, and aligned with the job description.

The skills listed below reflect what is currently valued in the occupational therapy field. These capabilities frequently appear in successful resumes and resonate well with hiring managers looking for qualified applicants.

5 Soft Skills for Your Resume or CV

  • Empathy and compassion
  • Effective communication
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Adaptability to client needs
  • Motivational support strategies

5 Hard Skills for Your Resume or CV

  • Client evaluation and goal setting
  • Assistive technology integration (SmartGlasses, iPads)
  • Manual therapy techniques
  • Home modification assessments
  • Sensory processing interventions

What’s a Fair Occupational Therapy Salary?

Researching salary data is important when evaluating job offers, negotiating compensation, and making informed career decisions. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides the most recent nationwide averages for occupational therapists.

Your actual salary can be impacted by several factors, including geographic location, years of experience, certifications, and areas of specialization. Occupational therapists working in rehabilitation hospitals or skilled nursing facilities often earn more than those in outpatient clinics or school settings, particularly if they have advanced certifications in specialized therapeutic techniques.

Alabama$64,970
Alaska$57,770
Arizona$73,360
Arkansas$77,160
California$81,440
Connecticut$68,680
Delaware$71,110
District of Columbia$69,970
Florida$70,870
Georgia$62,960
Hawaii$63,990
Idaho$70,850
Illinois$63,550
Indiana$62,700
Iowa$63,920
Kansas$66,850
Kentucky$64,950
Louisiana$60,390
Maine$60,110
Maryland$73,390
Massachusetts$67,930
Michigan$63,420
Minnesota$59,680
Mississippi$63,520
Missouri$62,990
Montana$68,100
Nebraska$60,530
Nevada$75,520
New Hampshire$67,070
New Jersey$74,050
New Mexico$66,770
New York$64,640
North Carolina$69,440
North Dakota$56,590
Ohio$65,330
Oklahoma$67,690
Oregon$72,050
Pennsylvania$62,290
Rhode Island$65,060
South Carolina$71,010
South Dakota$51,560
Tennessee$59,880
Texas$76,800
Utah$58,780
Vermont$67,430
Virginia$72,290
Washington$74,720
West Virginia$62,650
Wisconsin$57,800
Wyoming$57,210

Key Takeaways

  • Tailor your resume to the specific job posting. Use keywords from the description—it aids both ATS and hiring managers.
  • Highlight quantifiable successes to demonstrate your contributions. Include metrics relevant to occupational therapy (e.g., client progress rates, hours of therapy provided, case load management) to stand out.
  • Select a resume format that aligns with your career stage. New graduates might opt for a functional format, while seasoned practitioners often prefer reverse-chronological layouts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Last Update:

What resume format should I use for my occupational therapy resume?

There are three main resume formats to consider when applying for an occupational therapy position. Your choice should reflect your experience level and highlight the skills or achievements most relevant to the role you seek:

  • Chronological: The chronological resume is the most widely used format, highlighting your work history by outlining your responsibilities and achievements. This method is particularly beneficial for job seekers with a consistent job background, as it reinforces their qualifications and adds credibility to their professional narrative.
  • Functional: A functional resume, often called a skills-based resume, prioritizes a summary of qualifications and an expanded skills section over work history. This format is particularly beneficial for individuals lacking relevant experience or those facing employment gaps, as it allows them to highlight their capabilities and strengths more prominently.
  • Combination: A combination resume merges chronological and functional formats, showcasing both skills and work experience. This approach benefits professionals by allowing them to emphasize their abilities while also illustrating their career development. It’s ideal for those transitioning into new fields or advancing in their current roles.
Should I include a cover letter with my resume?

Yes, you should include a cover letter with your occupational therapy job application. A well-crafted cover letter improves your resume by allowing you to articulate your passion for helping clients regain independence and highlighting specific experiences that may not be evident on your resume. It shows potential employers that you’ve invested time in personalizing your application, which can give you an advantage over those who submit only a resume.

If you’re unsure about how to create a strong cover letter, don’t let that discourage you from including one. Numerous resources are available to assist you, such as guides on how to write a cover letter and examples tailored specifically for occupational therapy roles. Additionally, exploring various cover letter formats can help you choose one that best presents your qualifications and experiences.

To make the writing process easier, consider using a cover letter generator, which provides structured formats and tailored suggestions based on the specific occupational therapy position you’re applying for.

How long should an occupational therapy resume be?

For occupational therapy professionals with less than 10 years of experience, a one-page resume is ideal to succinctly showcase relevant skills, education, and certifications. Emphasize key clinical experiences and competencies that align with the position you seek.

Conversely, those in senior or specialized roles may extend their resumes to two pages to include comprehensive details about leadership positions and advanced training. It’s essential to maintain focus on relevant information that improves your qualifications while avoiding unnecessary filler content.

What keywords should I include to pass applicant tracking systems (ATS)?

To ensure your resume passes ATS filters, prioritize including keywords from the job posting. Terms like “functional mobility,” “therapeutic interventions,” and “client assessment” are important for occupational therapy positions. Tailor your language to match what employers seek.

Don’t forget to mention relevant certifications, such as NBCOT certification or CPR, and technical tools you’re familiar with, like electronic health record systems. This approach demonstrates that you have both the skills and qualifications needed for the role, increasing your chances of getting noticed by hiring managers.

Is it valuable to include volunteer work or internships on my occupational therapy resume?

Yes, including volunteer work or internships is important, particularly for those early in their careers. This type of experience showcases your commitment to the field and provides practical skills that can set you apart from others who may only list formal job roles.

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Toni Frana Career Advice Expert

Toni Frana is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches, and career expert who empowers job seekers to take control of their career paths using Monster’s comprehensive job search and resume tools.

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