Occupational therapists

Occupational therapy in B.C. is regulated by two distinct authorities. The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) determines the academic criteria required to qualify as an occupational therapist, while the College of Health and Care Professionals Of BC (CHCPCBC) determines the field work process required and handles provincial registration as an occupational therapist.

Registration to practice as an occupational therapist in B.C. with the CHPCBC requires:

• Graduation from a master’s program in occupational therapy approved by the CAOT
• Field work as determined by the CHCPCBC

At present, the only institution within B.C. currently offering master’s degrees in occupational therapy is the University of British Columbia (UBC). Students educated outside of B.C. must demonstrate that their program is equivalent.

Occupational therapists who are certified for that occupation by a regulator elsewhere in Canada can apply for the same certification from the regulator in B.C. Under the terms of the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA), most applicants who are transferring their credentials from elsewhere in Canada will not be required to complete additional training or testing. However, the B.C. regulator may ask applicants to provide further information such as a letter of good standing, references, or criminal record check.

For those who trained outside of Canada and never received certification from any Canadian jurisdiction, a full assessment is likely needed. Most occupational regulators have a process for assessment and recognize internationally trained applicants.

Contact the CHCPC for details on how to apply for certification in B.C.

For information about labour mobility in Canada, visit www.workersmobility.ca.

View a list of Professional Regulatory Authorities in B.C. 
 

Discover data, facts and information that have been gathered and analyzed. Learn about the characteristics of the economy and labour market in B.C.

Find out about employment types and trends by region and industry.

The B.C. Labour Market Outlook is a 10-year forecast of the expected supply and demand for labour in the province. It’s usually updated every year. The purpose is to provide British Columbians with the knowledge to make informed decisions on careers, skills training, education and hiring.

Learn about the opportunities in B.C.'s major industries, including employment trends, earning potential, locations of work and more.

B.C.’s population is growing and aging, and more people are seeking care outside of hospitals. At the same time, technology, greater awareness of health needs and changes in how autism and related conditions are supported are increasing demand for occupational therapists. This demand is especially strong in northern and rural communities, where health services are often limited and there aren’t enough new graduates to fill available roles.

Because of this shortage, new occupational therapists are finding more job openings, including positions that once required more experience. Temporary roles are also common because many occupational therapists are women and maternity leaves create regular vacancies. As the need continues to rise, more opportunities for on the job training and mentorship are likely to grow as well.

Industry reports that the trend for workers moving to community practice (private practice) is expected to continue, as privatization and insurance coverage for occupational therapy services becomes more common.

Some practices have adopted technologies for consultations provincewide. The move to electronic health records requires computer skills and basic office software knowledge. Occupational therapists may also work more often on teams delivering services through tele-health technologies.