With a CEU designation, occupational therapy can become a full-time profession. There are many benefits to pursuing such a degree. The course work is typically focused on conditions of those with disabilities and problems that must be treated or corrected. The individual then learns how to provide assistance to their patients in a variety of ways. The goal is to help the person become self-sufficient and improve their health and well-being.
Today, there are an estimated four million individuals in the United States who are certified in occupational therapy. There are many different occupational therapy ceu courses that can be taken by those looking to pursue a career in the field. Many people choose to take classes at either a community college or an institution of higher learning. The OTS certification process is different for everyone, though, so everyone should review their options.
One of the basic requirements for becoming an OTS is to have completed the first two steps of the educational process. Completing the CPT or Certified Practical Therapist training program also grants an individual the option to enroll in an occupational therapy ceu class. When taking the OTS course, an individual must complete the appropriate written examinations, participate in live classroom instruction, and take a qualifying exam. Once these steps are completed, the individual is then eligible to sit for the occupational therapy ceu certification test.
Currently there are two types of occupational therapy ceu classes available. One is the CPT-to-CEU program, which offers continuing education credit for all CEU classes. The other is the CPT-to-MSG, which is a course of study consisting of a standard level curriculum. Both of these courses offer credits towards the CEU requirements. The general student will have the option to choose between either of these courses, but may have some difficulty finding a class to take as it does not yet offer CEU credits.
An individual interested in becoming an occupational therapist can begin by taking an approved CeMAP/CEU course. The CeMAP is offered at a school-based or program or through an online site. The CeMAP, or Continuing Education and Mental Health Education course is usually offered as a part of a larger occupational therapy learning experience. If a student wishes to take this course, they should be aware that this is a more intensive type of CEU than the CPT-to-CEU program.
There is also the CPT-to-MSP course. This is a four-credit course, which is more likely to be offered at a school-based or program than at an online site. The CPT-to-MSP will provide students with a detailed understanding of the clinical areas of mental health. In addition, students will learn how to conduct both diagnostic and counseling procedures.
The final choice of CEU course is the Evidence-based Practitioner (EAP) program. The EAP program was developed to give professionals in occupational therapy the knowledge, skills, and knowledge base to diagnose and treat patients with cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, blindness, brain injury, and much more. The EAP program is given by private, for-profit organizations such as The American Association of Cerebral Palsyrollers. It is not required for those practicing in occupational therapy, but it is a recommended requirement for those seeking certification from the National Board for Certified Nursing Assistants (NCBT).
All of these programs are beneficial to occupational therapy practitioners who wish to obtain CEU status. Each one of these paths takes less time to complete than a traditional CPT course, making them easier to fit into busy lives. However, there are other considerations to keep in mind when choosing an OT program. For example, while many schools offer scholarships for those who are willing to train for additional years, those who already have CPT credentials should seriously consider taking extra courses to increase their education and get the highest pay grade possible.
