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Industry Profile -- by Mark Sproxton
Take heart those considering careers in rehabilitation/therapy. The demand for employees grows each year. Whether looking to help someone overcome physical, behaviourial or mental challenges, the industry holds a multitude of opportunities.
Provincial government statistics show jobs in this industry will increase anywhere from 1.5 to 3.9 per cent to 2006. In fact, some industry associations are using the words "worker shortage" when speaking about the needs of employers. That holds true for those working for private firms or government institutions such as hospitals.
Keep in mind, the work is far from easy. According to those currently working in the field, though, job satisfaction is huge. Each person profiled in this issue receives much reward from making a difference in someone's life. And these are often noticeable, tangible differences such as seeing a kindergarten student learn to write properly, or seeing an elite athlete return to the field, or watching parents and a child communicate through a means other than talking or writing.
Physiotherapist Terry Kane explains how he feels when he sees someone make huge strides after recovering from a sporting injury. Occupational therapist Brigitte Nilsson, rehabilitation practitioner Ellen Brackenbury and recreation therapist Kim Francis marvel at the joy of helping those with physical or mental barriers overcome their troubles and live more independent or fulfilling lives. Music therapist Jane Buchanan details how singing and/or playing an instrument can open a world of communication and happiness for the people she works with in the city.
This month's Jump Start looks at the multitude of educational, training, networking and volunteering opportunities in Calgary and has some great tips for career planning from a local physiotherapist. For those wondering about the process of rehabilitation from a first-person perspective, the Hot Tip is sure to enlighten.
Here's a brief summary of some of the jobs available in this industry:
Athletic therapists use a variety of treatment techniques and fitness programs to enhance individuals' athletic performance. A university degree is required as is certification from a national body.
- Pay will range from $18,000 to $50,000 or more a year.
- Above average occupational growth is expected to the year 2006.
Expressive arts therapists use the arts, such as music, drama or dance to better individuals' mental or physical health. A university degree plus artistic experience is required.
- Pay will range from $18,000 to $66,000 or more a year.
- Above average occupational growth is expected to the year 2006.
Kinesiologists study all aspects of human movement in a huge variety of settings, ranging from teaching to designing sports equipment. A university degree is required.
- Pay will range from $14,000 to $70,000 or more a year.
- Average occupational growth is expected to the year 2006.
Occupational therapists help people function better in all aspects of their day-to-day lives be they at work, school, home or play. A university degree in addition to mandatory registration with the provincial licensing body is required.
- Pay will range from $21,000 to $120,000 or more a year.
- Above average occupational growth is expected to the year 2006.
Occupational therapy assistants help occupational therapists increase patients' abilities to function more independently. Education requirements vary but typically a diploma from a community college is required.
- Pay will range from $11,000 to $58,000 or more a year.
- Above average occupational growth is expected to the year 2006.
Physiotherapists develop plans to help people rejuvenate, maintain or improve physical functioning. A university degree is required as is licensing by the provincial body.
- Pay will range from $19,000 to $86,000 or more a year.
- Above average occupational growth is expected to the year 2006.
Physiotherapy assistants work under the supervision of physiotherapists to help people improve physical functioning. Education requirements vary but typically a diploma from a community college is required.
- Pay will range from $11,000 to $58,000 or more a year.
- Above average occupational growth is expected to the year 2006.
Recreation therapists help people with a variety of special needs have opportunities for independent leisure activities. A degree or diploma in recreation with specialization in therapeutic recreation is required as is registering with the provincial association.
- Pay will range from $17,000 to $65,000 or more a year.
- Above average occupational growth is expected to the year 2006.
Rehabilitation practitioners help people with disabilities become more independent. A diploma or degree is required.
- Pay will range from $11,000 to $79,000 or more a year.
- Above average occupational growth is expected to the year 2006.
Here are some similar careers previously featured by nextSteps:
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