Steps to Become an Occupational Therapist in Kentucky
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics states that a Master’s degree earned online or through one of Kentucky’s occupational therapy schools is usually required to enter the field of occupational therapy. An even higher level of education is sometimes more appropriate, with a background in the sciences. To become a practicing occupational therapist in Kentucky, a person must also take and pass a certification exam at the national level and earn the title of Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR). This is obtained through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT).
The NBCOT’s contact information is below:
National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT)
The Eugene B. Casey Building
800 South Frederick Avenue
Suite 200
Gaithersburg, MD 20877-4150
Telephone: (301) 990-7979
Fax: (301) 869-8492
Website: www.nbcot.org
To become an occupational therapist in the state of Kentucky, one must obtain a license from the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Occupational Therapy. Contact information is as follows:
Kentucky Board of Licensure for Occupational Therapy
P.O. Box 1360
Frankfort, KY 40602
Telephone: 502-564-3296 Ext. 226
Website: bot.ky.gov
When submitting an application for a full license, the applicant must submit the following:
- Fee of $50 with the check written out to the Kentucky State Treasurer
- A transcript to show that the applicant has met all of the educational requirements
- A copy of the large version of his or her NBCOT certificate
- If the person is not a United States citizen, he or she must provide proof that he or she can work in the United States.
Prerequisites for applying for an occupational therapist license are as follows:
- Fill out the application and prove that he or she has good moral character
- Prove that an academic program in occupational therapy has been completed that has been accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association's Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education or a similar organization
- The applicant must have completed 24 hours of fieldwork under supervision
- The applicant must have passed an examination.
See the bot.ky.gov website for more information.
There are other stipulations that must be provided such as if someone is applying for a temporary license, are being reinstated, or are already licensed in another state.
Through campus based and online programs, aspiring Occupational Therapists in Louisville, Lexington and Owensboro, Kentucky may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including Norton Hospital, Saint Elizabeth Medical Center, and Owensboro Medical Health.
