Are you curious about how to become an occupational therapist in California? You may be imagining the rewarding moment when you will help someone regain independence and return to work, relearn daily skills or live their life with more confidence. Before you become an occupational therapist (OT), there are a few key steps to complete.
What is Fieldwork in Occupational Therapy? For many students, fieldwork is the moment occupational therapy (OT) really comes to life. This may be the first time what you’ve studied in class meets real clients and complex situations. It’s where confidence is built, mistakes become lessons and you begin to see yourself not just as a
One afternoon in Austin, Texas, the squeak of rubber wheels replaced the familiar sound of sneakers on hardwood. Inside the gym, occupational therapy (OT) graduate students from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) Austin campus lined up in specialized sports wheelchairs, passing a basketball back and forth as they learned to maneuver,
Alesha Thomas, left, and Kelsey Ledezma-Rebollo, right, and her family in Santee on Feb. 4. Both women are both involved in a pro-bono clinic for parents with disabilities through the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos. Courtesy photo Originally published on The Coast News Group SAN MARCOS — Staff and students
An occupational therapist’s career can be rewarding as it involves helping individuals perform meaningful everyday activities.1 Not only is becoming an occupational therapist a fulfilling career, but it also offers a promising salary. As of May 2024, the U.S. employed almost 160,000 occupational therapists who earned an average annual salary of $98,340. 2 Considering those benefits and
Originally Published on Forbes Inclusive play is often treated as optional. Something sweet but secondary. A reward after the “important” parts of the day are finished. For children, play is their main occupation. It is how they learn cause and effect, test boundaries, build social skills, and figure out how their bodies and minds work
Choosing an occupational therapy graduate program helps shape your healthcare career. As the field expands and requirements shift, clear guidance on accreditation, degree options and career paths is a major part of helping you find your way. This guide from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) breaks down OT education, day-to-day responsibilities
Committed to advancing the field of occupational therapy through education, evidence-based practice, research and advocacy, Hiral Khatri, OTD, OTR/L (OTD ’17) is a pediatric occupational therapist, and the chief executive officer and founder of the OT Park: Pediatric Therapy Services and Sensory Gym in Morgan Hill, CA. Her experience includes providing evidence-based, client-centered and playful
Originally published by Surfer Magazine Competitors from across the world recently traveled to California for the final stop of the Adaptive Surfing World Tour. A few weeks ago, from September 4-7, adaptive athletes from around the world gathered in Oceanside, CA, for the US Open. The action took place at the Oceanside Pier where the
For Kylene Aziz, a third-term Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) student at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) in San Marcos, CA, the U.S. Open Adaptive Surfing Championships represents more than a volunteer experience. It’s where her journey into occupational therapy (OT) began. From September 4–7, 2025, Aziz returned to the Oceanside
When it comes to deciding on a career pathway, the drive behind the role can be a strong motivator, especially when education requirements are intense. For many people, their dream job is to help others. Careers that help people can offer personal fulfillment, long-term career satisfaction and make a positive impact on the community.1 Jobs
When Madison “Maddie” Ferguson, MOT ’25, took the stage at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) summer commencement ceremony, she spoke with both humility and conviction. For Ferguson, earning her Master of Occupational Therapy degree wasn’t just an academic milestone — it was the fulfillment of a lifelong calling. “I grew up