Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on May 23, 2025Occupational therapists focus on daily activities that make life meaningful—sleep, school, work, social roles—they can help you translate insight into tangible routines. If you want practical, action-oriented strategies for anxiety, depression, trauma, or serious mental illness, an OT can be a powerful ally. This article will help you understand if working with an occupational therapist is right for you.
Occupational Therapist
342 N Water St, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202
McKaylla O'Rourke is a Occupational Therapist in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They treat Self-Harm, Career, Abuse.
The best of mental healthcare in one place. At Geode, we combine full-spectrum psychiatry and talk therapy to better meet changing patient needs.
Occupational Therapist
311 S County Farm Rd, Wheaton, Illinois 60187
Christine Reed is a Occupational Therapist in Wheaton, Illinois. They treat Body Image, Abuse, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
The best of mental healthcare in one place. At Geode, we combine full-spectrum psychiatry and talk therapy to better meet changing patient needs.
Occupational Therapist
1142 N Main St, Algonquin, Illinois 60102
Adrian Cardenas is a Occupational Therapist in Algonquin, Illinois. They treat Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Anxiety, Self-Harm.
The best of mental healthcare in one place. At Geode, we combine full-spectrum psychiatry and talk therapy to better meet changing patient needs.
Occupational Therapist
21901 Victory Road, Spring Hill, Kansas 66083
Amy Owens is a Occupational Therapist in Spring Hill, Kansas and has been in practice for 33 years. They treat Disability.
“Occupation” is more than just a job. Occupations are the things you do that bring meaning and purpose to your life.
Occupational Therapist
1202 W Monroe St, Chicago, Illinois 60607
Alexis Santiago is a Occupational Therapist in Chicago, Illinois. They treat Self-Harm, Depression, Drug Use.
The best of mental healthcare in one place. At Geode, we combine full-spectrum psychiatry and talk therapy to better meet changing patient needs.
Occupational Therapist
1202 W Monroe St, Chicago, Illinois 60607
Erin Richards is a Occupational Therapist in Chicago, Illinois. They treat Depression, Suicidal Ideation, Panic.
The best of mental healthcare in one place. At Geode, we combine full-spectrum psychiatry and talk therapy to better meet changing patient needs.
Occupational therapy services for behavioral health include:
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) guidelines recognize OTs as qualified mental-health professionals, case managers, and group facilitators across the lifespan.
| Step | National standard | Why it matters to you |
|---|---|---|
| Accredited degree | Master’s or doctoral program accredited by ACOTE | Guarantees evidence-based coursework in mental health and research |
| NBCOT exam | Pass the OTR (therapist) or COTA (assistant) exam and maintain good standing | Confirms competence and continuing-education every three years |
| State license | All 50 states plus D.C. require licensure and background checks | Lets you verify status through an online board lookup |
Some practitioners pursue Board Certification in Mental Health (BCMH)—a voluntary credential requiring three years’ experience and 3,000 mental-health hours. Seeing “OTR/L, BCMH” on a profile signals advanced expertise.
Licensure rules come from state law, so practice parameters—such as referral rights or supervision ratios—vary. To simplify cross-state care, 29 states have enacted the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact. The Compact Commission will begin issuing multi-state privileges later in 2025; until then, your therapist must hold a license where you sit for each session.
Remember, recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive network, and the right professional care, you can overcome the challenges of Occupational Therapist and build a fulfilling life. We are here to help you find care.
