Not happy

I am miserable. I graduated last year w/ my associates in OT. I have been a COTA for a year now, and I absolutely hate it. I work in a snf, and I love working w/ the elderly, and the money is very good. heres the problem - I feel like a fraud. I feel like I am not really doing anything but ADL's (which a CNA can do), and lots and lots of simple UE strengthening exercises. That is all the other COTA's are doing, so i am not really learning anything new. It's all about keeping people on caseload, and documenting in the right way to get reimbursed. I do not feel I am making a difference in most of my patients, and i do not feel like i am doing anything that one needs a college education to do.

When I was in school, I kept waiting for something to click. It still hasn't clicked. Most of my interventions are ridiculously easy and mundane. it is almost insulting to the patients. I want to do better, but feel I have no resources or mentors.

Occupational therapy is way too broad, and I find that it just encompasses every other profession.

I want out. What to do next? I want to be a social worker, but the pay is so low, and it requires a masters - and I am in my 40's. I have also thought of starting a business doing something for elderly, but not sure exactly what. I have also thought about becoming a recreational director.

any thoughts of a a good second career after ot? I could just stay doing what i am doing, and raking in the money and never feeling like I am doing all that much good - but I don't want to spend the rest of my life like that.

thanks for listening.

felicia

You know what's crazy? Both the asker and respondent of this forum are the SAME PERSON! It's that same Jillian, Lindsey, Van, Kyle, etc. person who just keeps changing names to keep bashing the OT profession. Now, he/she is going by You're right Felicia and Felicia08. Isn't that wierd! This person really needs some help.

Suzie Que in Fort Collins, Colorado said: You know what's crazy? Both the asker and respondent of this forum are the SAME PERSON! It's that same Jillian, Lindsey, Van, Kyle, etc. person who just keeps changing names to keep bashing the OT profession. Now, he/she is going by You're right Felicia and Felicia08. Isn't that wierd! This person really needs some help.

I'm sorry. My name is not really Felicia - I didn't want to use my real name or town in case somebody I know reads this. This is my first post here. (sorry to disappoint you suzieQ - I am not those other people you listed) I have read other posts here about OT, and was happy to have others put into words what I have been feeling about this profession since i started last year. sometimes I feel like I have a pretend job. Not bashing OT - I think it's a great profession when it is needed, but it seems to me that the vast majority of jobs are in snf's - doing the same things over and over again. I just don't see anybody really benefiting from this therapy - and for those that do, the benefit is right away - but they are often on therapy forever it seems. an hour a day, 5 days a week, for a 94 year old woman who had her hip replaced - in addition to the 5 hours of pt she is receiving, just seems to be overkill to me. (just a recent example from my job).
I would really like to use my degree and love for the elderly in a more beneficial way - am looking for suggestions for career path.

You're wrong Suzie Q in Los Angeles, California said: Wrong ---- so very wrong Miss Suzie Q. You'd like to believe that - but, not so.
But, you'll just have to find out the hard way - sorry - you've been warned.
And, no, all of these people don't need help --- you'll be the one who needs help when you jump in the shallow end of the OT pool.

You are 100% correct. This particular language is consistent in a ton of postings (I feel like I am not really doing anything but ADL's (which a CNA can do) /That is all the other COTA's are doing, so i am not really learning anything new. It's all about keeping people on caseload, and documenting in the right way to get reimbursed. I do not feel I am making a difference in most of my patients, and i do not feel like i am doing anything that one needs a college education to do.)

So i looked on google and typed "I hate OT" community.advanceweb.com/blogs/ot_3/archive/2008/01/14/will-cotas-become-extinct.aspx

Look at what the the author posted and comments he replied to on his page......Does this sound familiar?

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: I am miserable. I graduated last year w/ my associates in OT. I have been a COTA for a year now, and I absolutely hate it. I work in a snf, and I love working w/ the elderly, and the money is very good. heres the problem - I feel like a fraud. I feel like I am not really doing anything but ADL's (which a CNA can do), and lots and lots of simple UE strengthening exercises. That is all the other COTA's are doing, so i am not really learning anything new. It's all about keeping people on caseload, and documenting in the right way to get reimbursed. I do not feel I am making a difference in most of my patients, and i do not feel like i am doing anything that one needs a college education to do.

When I was in school, I kept waiting for something to click. It still hasn't clicked. Most of my interventions are ridiculously easy and mundane. it is almost insulting to the patients. I want to do better, but feel I have no resources or mentors.

Occupational therapy is way too broad, and I find that it just encompasses every other profession.

I want out. What to do next? I want to be a social worker, but the pay is so low, and it requires a masters - and I am in my 40's. I have also thought of starting a business doing something for elderly, but not sure exactly what. I have also thought about becoming a recreational director.

any thoughts of a a good second career after ot? I could just stay doing what i am doing, and raking in the money and never feeling like I am doing all that much good - but I don't want to spend the rest of my life like that.

thanks for listening.

felicia

Hi, Felicia, I'm turning 40 next month and am ready to start my new "chapter" in life/career, as an OTA. I don't have any advice for your post, obviously, but perhaps you have some integral advice for mine? If you're in the business(as you are!), you qualify...LOL!

Can you help me out by telling me more about your work?

Glenn in Bonney Lake, Washington said: You are 100% correct. This particular language is consistent in a ton of postings (I feel like I am not really doing anything but ADL's (which a CNA can do) /That is all the other COTA's are doing, so i am not really learning anything new. It's all about keeping people on caseload, and documenting in the right way to get reimbursed. I do not feel I am making a difference in most of my patients, and i do not feel like i am doing anything that one needs a college education to do.)

So i looked on google and typed "I hate OT" community.advanceweb.com/blogs/ot_3/archive/2008/01/14/will-cotas-become-extinct.aspx

Look at what the the author posted and comments he replied to on his page......Does this sound familiar?

lol - my particular language is consistant w/ others? ummm, maybe because more than one person is feeling disappointed w/ their ot career, and they share similar opinions?

basis is upper extremity strength training - which is easy and can be done by just about anybody.

I love working w/ older people, I just feel ridiculous because I don't feel productive.

I love neuro and could see myself working w/ stroke pt's, or strictly dementia - but I haven't found a place that focus' just on those pt's. maybe I need to travel towards a city?

I wouldn't recommend going into ot, nor would discourage you. Just focus on what you want to do - and make sure those types of oppurtunities are available where you live.

If i had to do it over again, I would have gone for pt. Much more concrete and specifid - instead of ot, which is just too all over the place for me.

good luck!

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: I went into ot w/ a paricular interest in psych. I did my fieldwork at a well known psych hospital - and it was ridiculous. I will admit - I had nobody to mentor me - they just threw the students in, and I spent my days coloring, cutting and doing craft activities - which I hate! The therapy I thought i would be doing -teaching coping skills, relaxation techniquest, patient education, etc.. - were done daily be the psychologists. There are hardly any jobs in psych for a cota, although at one time it was primarily what ot's worked in.

so, I ended up in a snf. The first one i worked in was awful. it was a dirty disgusting facility - and the patients i worked w/ were mostly med b's, and many were inappropriate for therapy. I had many pt's on caseload that died while they were on caseload - and, obviously, were only being treated to bring more money into the facility. I was taught how to do creative documentation - and productivity and numbers were drilled into my head. The job paid well, co-workers were nice, but I could not stay in a job where i was expected to treat pt's that were untreatable - and they didn't care - you could go and stare at the pt. if you wanted - so long as you billed for it somehow. It was impossible, and so i quit.

My new job is at a much better snf - mostly orthopedic pt.s - a little more straight forward, definately more appropriate for rehab, but still - I'm not feeling very effective. I would do in two sessions what they want me to do in 10. (pt. education, bed mobility, adaptive equipment training, etc.). The only thing I do that would be needed on a continous

Please excuse my ignorance, but what is SNF?

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: basis is upper extremity strength training - which is easy and can be done by just about anybody.

I love working w/ older people, I just feel ridiculous because I don't feel productive.

I love neuro and could see myself working w/ stroke pt's, or strictly dementia - but I haven't found a place that focus' just on those pt's. maybe I need to travel towards a city?

I wouldn't recommend going into ot, nor would discourage you. Just focus on what you want to do - and make sure those types of oppurtunities are available where you live.

If i had to do it over again, I would have gone for pt. Much more concrete and specifid - instead of ot, which is just too all over the place for me.

good luck!

Even if it's "beneath you", the activities, which I hope you can explain to me, for I am a "sponge", here...If it helps others it's not mundane, right? Is your "work" of service to others? Please help me in any way you can.

I left my master's in Psych program(with an A average) to want to be more of service to others rather than popping pills down their throats, as guided by the DSM. I want to be truly of service and my masters or OTA program takes about the same time(2 years).

Advice, please?

were as far along as you, personally, i would consider social work. I have to say though, 4 students in my graduating ot class had bachelors in psych - and then went for their ota.

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: were as far along as you, personally, i would consider social work. I have to say though, 4 students in my graduating ot class had bachelors in psych - and then went for their ota.

snf - skilled nursing facility. Basically, a nursing home (long term care), generally w/ rehab part for short term rehab stays.

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: I don't think the acitivities are beneath me, I just don't think they are very effective or necessary, and not worthy of the money that is being paid to me and the facility for providing them. In ot school, you learn how to break down every ordinary activity into components, and somehow that makes it more justifiable to bill for these activities, because they are skilled. By activities I mean basic activities of daily living. Lot's of ADL and toileting, kitchen stuff, and housekeeping. In our gym, you would typically see our ot staff playing catch w/ a ball (to improve balance, strenght, standing tolerance, etc., exercising their ue's w/ weights, making toast in the kitchen, and manuvering a rolling walker through and obstacle course.
Again, my interest is more in psych, and the emotional well being of the people I work w/,so maybe that is why I find this other stuff mundane.
I will try to make my treat's interesting for the pt when I can - for instance, taking a depressed elderly man who just had a cabbage x3, into the library, and have him reaching for books, settling on one full of pictures of America - and having him (standing) go through the book and talk about all the places his been. he loved it and felt wonderful afterward. it was a great treat -but most are not like that.

I had wanted to be a social worker, but felt overwhelmed w/ having to get a masters to be employable, so went into ot instead. If I

Well, so far it sounds great to me...helping folks regain their motor strength through something as simple as playing "catch?" I LOVE IT! Please dislose more info, for helping others get "back on their feet" should be simple, and rewarding.

Do you have a private e-mail for me to continue with my correspondonce? If you'de be so kind?

Like I said, I have 7 years in pharma sales, lucrative...but meaningless, i.e. wining and dining docs to advertise my services is not for me anymore. It's a kiss

It's definitely just the same person. So obvious. IGNORE THIS PEOPLE!

Suzie Que in Fort Collins, Colorado said: It's definitely just the same person. So obvious. IGNORE THIS PEOPLE!

lol. I am actually finding you amusing!!! :)

My experience working in snf's is not what i went to school for. I know we learn a very wide variety of skills in OT school - but I feel I am using very little of them, and it seems at times ridiculous to call what i am doing 'skilled'.

Folks, look at it this way. You got into occupational therapy - not neurosurgery. Be content for what the job is.

If you worked any "harder" on these older people, you would break their bones. These older people, all they need is their muscles worked, etc. You are also giving these people another service - the opportunity for some companionship, someone to talk to, maybe have some intelligent conversations.

How about if you change your techniques a little - instead of going in and thing about what a terrible job you have, think about how you're taking care of that person's physicial and intellectual needs. Get some conversation going!!!

Mary inTampa in Tampa, Florida said: Folks, look at it this way. You got into occupational therapy - not neurosurgery. Be content for what the job is.

If you worked any "harder" on these older people, you would break their bones. These older people, all they need is their muscles worked, etc. You are also giving these people another service - the opportunity for some companionship, someone to talk to, maybe have some intelligent conversations.

How about if you change your techniques a little - instead of going in and thing about what a terrible job you have, think about how you're taking care of that person's physicial and intellectual needs. Get some conversation going!!!

I don't think my job is terrible - I love my patients, and enjoy them soo much. I just get frustrated, feeling like I am not doing much. I would love to find a forum where OTR's and COTA's post about different treatment ideas. maybe I just need some creativity - not my strength. I need ideas to keep things interesting and to feel like i am doing as much as I can.

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: I'm sorry. I don't give out my private e-mail, but I would be happy to share any info I have w/ you on this forum!
Playing catch is great, just not when it is the only think left to do w/ a patient, and you have 60 minutes of therapy to give to them, 5 days a week, for many weeks.
I have been thinking about my disatisfaction w/ my career a lot last night, and this is what I think. In school we learn so much - about treating people as a whole, and addressing the SEVEN areas of occupation - adl, iadl, work, education, leisure, play & social. All of these, TOGETHER, make up a happy and content individual. I know not everybody is working, or going to school, but still - the main focus on OT thus far in my experience has been very functionally oriented and based almost always solely on ADL's. I have a lot of patients who I feel could benefit from leisure activities and social connections that would significantly lesson their anxiety and depression, but when i see them their goals are never for that - it's always ADL, ADL, ADL.
I have yet to administer an assessment, and I learned so many at school! I have yet to run a group whose focus isn't "raise your arms ten times" etc.. I have yet to make recommendations for community resources (social work does that)

What are ADL's?

OT is what it is... in Los Angeles, California said: Forgot to add: ADL stands for "activities of daily living." Just fyi.

Thanks again!

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: I am miserable. I graduated last year w/ my associates in OT. I have been a COTA for a year now, and I absolutely hate it. I work in a snf, and I love working w/ the elderly, and the money is very good. heres the problem - I feel like a fraud. I feel like I am not really doing anything but ADL's (which a CNA can do), and lots and lots of simple UE strengthening exercises. That is all the other COTA's are doing, so i am not really learning anything new. It's all about keeping people on caseload, and documenting in the right way to get reimbursed. I do not feel I am making a difference in most of my patients, and i do not feel like i am doing anything that one needs a college education to do.

When I was in school, I kept waiting for something to click. It still hasn't clicked. Most of my interventions are ridiculously easy and mundane. it is almost insulting to the patients. I want to do better, but feel I have no resources or mentors.

Occupational therapy is way too broad, and I find that it just encompasses every other profession.

I want out. What to do next? I want to be a social worker, but the pay is so low, and it requires a masters - and I am in my 40's. I have also thought of starting a business doing something for elderly, but not sure exactly what. I have also thought about becoming a recreational director.

any thoughts of a a good second career after ot? I could just stay doing what i am doing, and raking in the money and never feeling like I am doing all that much good - but I don't want to spend the rest of my life like that.

thanks for listening.

felicia

Hi Felicia, sorry to hear that you dont like OT. My situation is almost similiar to yours except I was in a masters program withdraw because I couldnt handle the stress. Its tough you have to know that you really want this to continue and when I was going through all this stress I had to think twice about OT being really for me.

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: I am miserable. I graduated last year w/ my associates in OT. I have been a COTA for a year now, and I absolutely hate it. I work in a snf, and I love working w/ the elderly, and the money is very good. heres the problem - I feel like a fraud. I feel like I am not really doing anything but ADL's (which a CNA can do), and lots and lots of simple UE strengthening exercises. That is all the other COTA's are doing, so i am not really learning anything new. It's all about keeping people on caseload, and documenting in the right way to get reimbursed. I do not feel I am making a difference in most of my patients, and i do not feel like i am doing anything that one needs a college education to do.

When I was in school, I kept waiting for something to click. It still hasn't clicked. Most of my interventions are ridiculously easy and mundane. it is almost insulting to the patients. I want to do better, but feel I have no resources or mentors.

Occupational therapy is way too broad, and I find that it just encompasses every other profession.

I want out. What to do next? I want to be a social worker, but the pay is so low, and it requires a masters - and I am in my 40's. I have also thought of starting a business doing something for elderly, but not sure exactly what. I have also thought about becoming a recreational director.

any thoughts of a a good second career after ot? I could just stay doing what i am doing, and raking in the money and never feeling like I am doing all that much good - but I don't want to spend the rest of my life like that.

thanks for listening.

felicia

Hey Felicia, is ota work really like cna work? Also do you know if the OT job is as fascinating? Tell me what you see that OTs do since you are working with them. Do they have a lot of patient contact because I really like that. Or do they just do alot of paperwork and let the ot assistants do it. And finally how is it working with OTs?

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: I'm sorry. My name is not really Felicia - I didn't want to use my real name or town in case somebody I know reads this. This is my first post here. (sorry to disappoint you suzieQ - I am not those other people you listed) I have read other posts here about OT, and was happy to have others put into words what I have been feeling about this profession since i started last year. sometimes I feel like I have a pretend job. Not bashing OT - I think it's a great profession when it is needed, but it seems to me that the vast majority of jobs are in snf's - doing the same things over and over again. I just don't see anybody really benefiting from this therapy - and for those that do, the benefit is right away - but they are often on therapy forever it seems. an hour a day, 5 days a week, for a 94 year old woman who had her hip replaced - in addition to the 5 hours of pt she is receiving, just seems to be overkill to me. (just a recent example from my job).
I would really like to use my degree and love for the elderly in a more beneficial way - am looking for suggestions for career path.

Hi Felicia, I know that this is not really your name, but I am using so you know that I am talking to you. My suggesting to you is that if you really want I career path read this book call "THE PATHFINDER" This is a great book the helps you to pick the right career that is right for you based on you interests, wants, desires and etc. It talks about it all! There are excises in this book that will definitely help you. I now know what career is right for me because of the help of this book. this book can be found on amazon for about 6 dollars. I was searching for answers and read all the review for career books on amazon and this book seeemed to have the best reviews and those reviews were right. You dont want to make the wrong mistake and choose a career that is no for you. Make sure you get it right this time! Buy the book! hope this help

It seems weird to me that someone would go through OT profession without knowing what was ahead of them. Did you not do any shadowing before you got into OT School? At 40 years old, I would hope you would know how to use the internet to research a profession before just going straight into the school. That doesn't make any sense. You're getting a little old to be jumping careers.
You're not in your twenties anymore.

Tica in Springfield, Massachusetts said: Hey Felicia, is ota work really like cna work? Also do you know if the OT job is as fascinating? Tell me what you see that OTs do since you are working with them. Do they have a lot of patient contact because I really like that. Or do they just do alot of paperwork and let the ot assistants do it. And finally how is it working with OTs?

Some of my work definately overlaps CNA work - like when a pt's goals are dressing and bathing and toileting. I don't mind doing these things at all - just wonder why I am getting paid more than double the CNA's salary because I come armed w/ a long handled shoehorn and a dressing stick!!!! It's not rocket science.
the OT's I work w/ do mostly eval's and paperwork. We COTA's have much more pt contact. The OTR's I have worked w/ have been wonderful. I have found most people in this field to be geniunely nice and caring.

sandra in Plaquemine, Louisiana said: It seems weird to me that someone would go through OT profession without knowing what was ahead of them. Did you not do any shadowing before you got into OT School? At 40 years old, I would hope you would know how to use the internet to research a profession before just going straight into the school. That doesn't make any sense. You're getting a little old to be jumping careers.
You're not in your twenties anymore.

Really? it seems weird to me that, without knowing me at all, you would insinuate I don't know how to do research on a computer, or that I am too old for a job change. You are flat out rude. I did plenty of research, for a few years, well before I even entered the program. I don't do anything w/o a lot of forethought and consideration - and that includes my decision to enter this field. The problem is, you don't really KNOW what it is all about ($$$$$$) until you are too far into to turn around. Nobody tells you the real deal. Occupational therapy is always being promoted as this wonderful career helping people - but the reality is, most of the jobs are for rehab companies that care very little about the patients. It's frustrating for somebody like me, who really wants to make a difference - not just go through the motions for a paycheck. A few days of shadowing is not enough to get to know about any career - don't be so smug.
As for being too old for a job change - again, you are just rude. 42 is nowhere near to old for a job change - I still have well over 20 years of working ahead of me, and am just not sure if I want to spend it doing this.
I think the tone of your post was nasty - and you are one of those people who issues in their personal life, and instead of dealing w/ them you look for an outlet on the internet to go after strangers. go crawl back to wherever it is you came from. I am here to talk about occupational therapy - not to deal w/ people like you. go away. bye-bye.

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: Really? it seems weird to me that, without knowing me at all, you would insinuate I don't know how to do research on a computer, or that I am too old for a job change. You are flat out rude. I did plenty of research, for a few years, well before I even entered the program. I don't do anything w/o a lot of forethought and consideration - and that includes my decision to enter this field. The problem is, you don't really KNOW what it is all about ($$$$$$) until you are too far into to turn around. Nobody tells you the real deal. Occupational therapy is always being promoted as this wonderful career helping people - but the reality is, most of the jobs are for rehab companies that care very little about the patients. It's frustrating for somebody like me, who really wants to make a difference - not just go through the motions for a paycheck. A few days of shadowing is not enough to get to know about any career - don't be so smug.
As for being too old for a job change - again, you are just rude. 42 is nowhere near to old for a job change - I still have well over 20 years of working ahead of me, and am just not sure if I want to spend it doing this.
I think the tone of your post was nasty - and you are one of those people who issues in their personal life, and instead of dealing w/ them you look for an outlet on the internet to go after strangers. go crawl back to wherever it is you came from. I am here to talk about occupational therapy - not to deal w/ people like you. go away. bye-bye.

Your comment was very helpful Felicia and you are not too old to change a career. 20 years is a long time to be in a career you do not like. Also you are right about the shadowing. Sometimes shadowing for a few days do not give you the whole gist about the field. Its really tricky to know by just observing and not doing. I was an occupational therapy student and called it a quit after doing 2 and half semester of it.

Tica in Springfield, Massachusetts said: Your comment was very helpful Felicia and you are not too old to change a career. 20 years is a long time to be in a career you do not like. Also you are right about the shadowing. Sometimes shadowing for a few days do not give you the whole gist about the field. Its really tricky to know by just observing and not doing. I was an occupational therapy student and called it a quit after doing 2 and half semester of it.

I am glad I was brave enough to quit now then to continue on and find out how much I hate it. A comment for Sandra in Plaquamine, Louisiana, Some people have different reasons for getting into a field that they dont like. some may have started an education in a field and may have hated it but was too far into the program to call it a quit, especially if you are in a masters program. Masters program education cost anywhere from 60,000k-80,000k total. if you are already into the program and have 1 semester left it wouldnt really make sense to not continue. Luckily still had 3 semester left (this includes the summer and half of this semester which I didnt finish. So be courteous and mindful to other people's situation.

Tica in Springfield, Massachusetts said: I am glad I was brave enough to quit now then to continue on and find out how much I hate it. A comment for Sandra in Plaquamine, Louisiana, Some people have different reasons for getting into a field that they dont like. some may have started an education in a field and may have hated it but was too far into the program to call it a quit, especially if you are in a masters program. Masters program education cost anywhere from 60,000k-80,000k total. if you are already into the program and have 1 semester left it wouldnt really make sense to not continue. Luckily still had 3 semester left (this includes the summer and half of this semester which I didnt finish. So be courteous and mindful to other people's situation.

"I was an occupational therapy student and called it a quit after doing 2 and half semester of it."

Umm why do you come on a OT forum? If your looking to trasition into a new career, why wont you speak with your guidance counselor?

Also the name tica,did you know that its short for Costa Rican female?

Glenn in Bonney Lake, Washington said: "I was an occupational therapy student and called it a quit after doing 2 and half semester of it."

Umm why do you come on a OT forum? If your looking to trasition into a new career, why wont you speak with your guidance counselor?

Also the name tica,did you know that its short for Costa Rican female?

Um, Please dont tell me what i can do or cant do. I am researchin everything out. reading these forums is what got me thinkin twice about this career. And for your info I just dropped out of my program not because I didnt like OT but because it was killing me with stress and I wasnt even sure if it was really what I wanted to do. I wanted to do find out for sure so I bought books, and did talk to various counselors and now I am reading these forums. Dont tell me that I am not doing something worthwhile. This is what these forums are for so people can know what they are getting into and that we all can get advice from one another. Before doing all the this research and reading forums I was actually thinking about continuing with OT at a different school. I just hated the school that i was at thats all. But now like I said I am beginning to realize that OT is not for me. And for your info I did not know what I was going to do and guidance counselors are really of no help. These forums pushed me to making my decision. Please keep you comments to yourself Glenn if you have nothing good to say.

I don't mean a few days of shadowing. Aren't you supposed to observe for at least forty hours before you can apply to the school? Why didn't you talk to occupational therapists about how they feel about their jobs? At 42 why are you still looking for meaning in your job? Shouldn't you be more concerned with paying your bills and taking care of your family? That is assuming you have a family. I would be upset if my forty-two year mother kept jumping careers because she is still trying to find herself. The time now is to settle and accept your fate. It just seems so silly for you to keep searching and searching. Bills need to be paid, and your mortgage or electric company doesn't care about your feelings when you treat patients. If you want meaning, start volunteering in a hospice or a food bank. Be a volunteer at a local school.

sandra in Plaquemine, Louisiana said: I don't mean a few days of shadowing. Aren't you supposed to observe for at least forty hours before you can apply to the school? Why didn't you talk to occupational therapists about how they feel about their jobs? At 42 why are you still looking for meaning in your job? Shouldn't you be more concerned with paying your bills and taking care of your family? That is assuming you have a family. I would be upset if my forty-two year mother kept jumping careers because she is still trying to find herself. The time now is to settle and accept your fate. It just seems so silly for you to keep searching and searching. Bills need to be paid, and your mortgage or electric company doesn't care about your feelings when you treat patients. If you want meaning, start volunteering in a hospice or a food bank. Be a volunteer at a local school.

For Felicia's offense, it doesnt really help to ask an occupational therapist how they feel about their job. They will never really tell you the truth because they are not supposed to, especially on the job. That why people find these forums good because it allow people to express themselves and their feeling about the job. An occupational therapist would never say to a person shadowing, "hey dont get into this field it is terrible". Do you really think they will tell you that on the job. However you can always figure them out by body language and how they work and respond to their patients. No verbal language and body language says it all when you trying to figure out if a therapist is really enjoying what they do. YOu may be right about switching careers or jumping to careers at age 42, it may be a little disturbing to the family, especiallly the children. However, like I mentioned before 20 years is alot of years to be working in a field you do not like. If you are not happy getting up every morning to go to work it will impact your family because you will be miserable.

Continued...

I feel that Felicia has every right to find meaning in her life if she is not happy. She owes to her family to be happy. Felicia you do what you gotta do. Dont let anyone tell you that you are too old. I admire you desire to find meaning in you life.

Tica in Springfield, Massachusetts said: Continued...

I feel that Felicia has every right to find meaning in her life if she is not happy. She owes to her family to be happy. Felicia you do what you gotta do Dont let anyone tell you that you are too old. I admire you desire to find meaning in you life.

thanks Tica.I think "Sandy" is looking for attention - nothing more. I'm skipping over her posts in this thread from now on.

Are you still considering going back to school for OT?

I have been an OT for 5 years and also find it dreary and depressing and know many people who feel the same. Some people don't mind doing this job but I can't believe how it did not match at all what I learned in school. I too everyday try to think of how to get out of this field without going back to school and still use the skills and experience I have gained but in a different way. I don't know if it's the fault of the healthcare system or i just have too high an expectation for this career but I have been very dissapointed. The money is good though which makes it even more unfortunate or difficult to change. I would love to hear how other people made a successful change but they are probably happily doing it now so no need to be on a board like this.

Jillian again in Culver City, California said: One more thought. I know it seems like such a big waste and time and money - an OT degree and it's tempting to want to try to make it work in some other capacity - as if it just has to. That's a lot of pressure - when maybe whatever it is that you could do with an OT degree may not be what really is of interest to you. And, you could waste even more time trying to make your OT degree work - when maybe it just won't. It comes to a point where you may have to decide to just cut your loses - accept the mistake and the loss and move on to other things.I personally think that holding onto OT will continue to cost and cost and cost - you everything. The sooner you can break with that tie, the better - let it go - have the courage to close the OT door. You could miss the real boat (career) in your life by trying to find a place for OT to fit. As I was saying, it can be a plus to have your degree to work PRN to support your next degree - but, then be ready to let it go when you find another career. And, next time, study something that is really of interest to you - an area that complements your natural abilities -not just do something b/c it's hot on the job market - or find a balance b/w the two - your interests and the job market - and maybe it's not even in health care. Be open - and willing to launch out into something completely unrelated. There is a life and world after OT - and don't let OT keep that chokehold on you - you can do other things. You need to control OT's influence in your life, not the other way around. You decide how much you want to do and not to do as it works in your new world - and, as I said, use it for your own advantage (for parts) to allow you to take that leap to another career via possibly another degree.

Wow Jiliian, It seems that you really had very bad experience with OT. Are you an OT or a Cota? What made you decide to go into OT? What do you plan to do about your problem?

Jillian again in Culver City, California said: I'm an OT not a COTA. It's not my problem dear - it's OT's problem. And, my experience is shared by many, many others. You seem very childish - typical OT mentality.

I dont appreciate that comment. All I wanted to know is why you hate the job so much... Are you doing anything about it? Do you plan to make another career change? If so in what? I think you should if it makes you so unhappy like this. Also are you currently working as an OT now?? And im not an OT thank you, was planning to be but decided to not go into it.

Jillian again in Culver City, California said: I'm an OT not a COTA. It's not my problem dear - it's OT's problem. And, my experience is shared by many, many others. You seem very childish - typical OT mentality.

What can you see yourself doing besides OT? And by the way how long have you been practicing OT for? And when did you realize you didnt like it? Was it during you time in school, was it your first couple of days of the job when?

This page seems to be one big cancer. I went back to school to become an OT after many lucrative years in sales. I was a top performer in sales and made more money than a good plastic surgeon. On a good week I could easily make 20k. But the job was an empty existence, constantly badgered by management and owners to increase sales. Customers constantly blaming me for their business struggles. The stress everyday to produce better results than the month before would kill even the strongest person. I sucked it up everyday with a smile and a plan for the future. I went back to school and now I could not be happier. This job is a cakewalk and I am offended by all the whining on this blog. I work in a school district and have summers off. Take the time to make good decisions. Work is work, especially in the crappy economy.

Jillian again in West Hollywood, California said: Too many questions you're asking that don't pertain to the issue of why OT is not a profession and why it is a problem. I've already explained it all in detail - hope it's been helpful.

Thats my question... If OT is a problem why are you still in it? Is there something you like about? If you can anwser that, it would be helful.

Why OT again... in Los Angeles, California said: I was so exhausted after working yesterday, I thought I would just throw up. I don't mean "work" as in a real job, b/c it's not really work - it's just pretending to work that's so exhausting mentally and emotionally. I like to work when there's something tangible to be accomplished - I'll outwork anybody - but I need an end goal besides billing for X number of minutes to make some corporation richer. This job, per se, would be perfect for mindless drones - but, for anyone who needs an ounce of stimulation - it will drive you out of your ever-loving mind!

Hey Jillian, why did you change you username?? I have a question, how many years have you been practicing OT? And what do you find comforting about these forums to keep adding comments about OT being a horrible profession. Dont you think we get the point that OT is not a profession or a real job if that is the point you trying to get out. Are you trying to help us or are you just putting your frustrations out by writing everything you feel on these forums. Its like hearing the same song over and over again and getting tired of it, thats how i feel about all the comments you are making right now about OT. You just keep repeating the same comments over and over again... Im not sure what point you are trying to make here, but I think enough is enough. The profession is not a good profession, so we get the point if that is what you trying to make us understand.

The LA drone is trying to stir the pot. Probably a life long "cancer", miserable with his own existence. May you try to find some happiness in life. God Bless.

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: snf - skilled nursing facility. Basically, a nursing home (long term care), generally w/ rehab part for short term rehab stays.

I suggest you speak to the OTR you work with and ask about altering goals. You might want to look a little more global concerning your actions with people. You think having someone kick their feet out 15 times (PT) is better than 15 arm exercises? Shadow a social worker for awhile. You have the choice to include as much as you want in your intervention. Most of rehab is not rocket science

[QUOTE who="it's just pretending to work that's so exhausting mentally and emotionally. I like to work when there's something tangible to be accomplished - I'll outwork anybody - but I need an end goal besides billing for X number of minutes to make some corporation richer. !

this exactly how I feel. Like I am pretending to work - just filling up minutes. I would much rather be doing something more productive - something that has a start, middle and end. I am not using any of the things I learned in school. It is frustrating.

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: I am miserable. I graduated last year w/ my associates in OT. I have been a COTA for a year now, and I absolutely hate it. I work in a snf, and I love working w/ the elderly, and the money is very good. heres the problem - I feel like a fraud. I feel like I am not really doing anything but ADL's (which a CNA can do), and lots and lots of simple UE strengthening exercises. That is all the other COTA's are doing, so i am not really learning anything new. It's all about keeping people on caseload, and documenting in the right way to get reimbursed. I do not feel I am making a difference in most of my patients, and i do not feel like i am doing anything that one needs a college education to do.

When I was in school, I kept waiting for something to click. It still hasn't clicked. Most of my interventions are ridiculously easy and mundane. it is almost insulting to the patients. I want to do better, but feel I have no resources or mentors.

Occupational therapy is way too broad, and I find that it just encompasses every other profession.

I want out. What to do next? I want to be a social worker, but the pay is so low, and it requires a masters - and I am in my 40's. I have also thought of starting a business doing something for elderly, but not sure exactly what. I have also thought about becoming a recreational director.

any thoughts of a a good second career after ot? I could just stay doing what i am doing, and raking in the money and never feeling like I am doing all that much good - but I don't want to spend the rest of my life like that.

thanks for listening.

felicia

Have you thought of looking at volunteer opportunities which allow you to use your skills in the way you desire to use them?

Also, if you're entrepreneurial at all, you could design a program and partner with a complimentary company. (Chiropractic, yoga, parks district community ed, YWCA, etc.)

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: [QUOTE who="it's just pretending to work that's so exhausting mentally and emotionally. I like to work when there's something tangible to be accomplished - I'll outwork anybody - but I need an end goal besides billing for X number of minutes to make some corporation richer. !

this exactly how I feel. Like I am pretending to work - just filling up minutes. I would much rather be doing something more productive - something that has a start, middle and end. I am not using any of the things I learned in school. It is frustrating.

Hello everyone, I accidentally got in your forum. I am an RN and I love my job.... I have my own internet business which is perfect for people who wants to help other people and make money while educating others.
It is hard to find a job right now...so all I can say is be thankful that we all have a job.

Felicia08 in Massachusetts said: Some of my work definately overlaps CNA work - like when a pt's goals are dressing and bathing and toileting. I don't mind doing these things at all - just wonder why I am getting paid more than double the CNA's salary because I come armed w/ a long handled shoehorn and a dressing stick!!!! It's not rocket science.
the OT's I work w/ do mostly eval's and paperwork. We COTA's have much more pt contact. The OTR's I have worked w/ have been wonderful. I have found most people in this field to be geniunely nice and caring.

Hi Felicia08...I work part time in a rehab.center. You OT's are the most important
staff in a rehab. center. Maybe you are not in the right place. Our OT/PT staff does not do any CNA job. They do all the rehab./occupational stuff that the resident needs.

I lost my job due to the economy and planning to return to school. I was thinking of a business related program but I've always thought about doing something in health care and PT or OT is one of those considerations.

Being a lay person, it seems to me that PT's and OT's do very similar job functions but from reading this forum I guess that isn't the case (sorry for my ignorance on this).

What is the average starting salary for a new PT vs. OT fresh out of school?

And how long are the training programs for PT vs. OT?

Marina in Glendale, California said: Correction: meant to type "worlds" not "world's."

And, to check pay rates, go to salary.com - gives pay ranges for your specific area and profession.

Simply crazy!!!.....You lurk around in the backgrounds waiting for your opportunity to antagonize or discourage interest in this field.All you want to do is come on a website and complain about the wrong choices you made. You made a decesion to go into OT, and you are also making a choice to stay where you are. That is fine, but don't try to take your fustration out on others who are interested in learning about other options in this career. And whats with the name changes and grammer correction's / and yes I just did that to make you pull your hair. Did your mom rip up your assignments as a child and have you rewrite them? Call her to complain!

Correction: meant to type "grammar" not "grammer"

Correction: meant to type "corrections" not "correction's."

Who the hell does this....lol

Please keep on snacking on those cheetos puffs and feed the cat and dont forget to add another sticker to your lap top.

Please dont tell me " you have so much to learn " and "OT wannabe". What have you been around since Moses that you know so much?

Your multiple personality is undescribable. I hope you clearly understand something Van,Matilda,Don,Marina etc etc (take a pill for what I'm about to say to you), there is no occupation in this world that would be a good fit for you. Kinda harsh, well that the reality. I dont see how you would pass an interview. So my advice stay where you are and watch your back,cause HR is trying to find away to get rid of you.....