The Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook predicts that employment of occupational therapists is projected to grow 29 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations.

This is based on the general population growth and the increasing demand for services for those aged 75 years and older who are requiring occupational therapy services to improve their quality of life. In addition, emerging practice areas for occupational therapists, for example, in such areas as driver rehabilitation and fall prevention, continue to develop.

Occupational therapists are employed in diverse settings including but not limited to: hospitals, schools, rehabilitation facilities, long-term care facilities, home health care, and in areas of prevention and wellness.