Portfolio careers in occupational therapy
What is a portfolio career?
A portfolio career in occupational therapy refers to a career path where an occupational therapist (OT) works in multiple roles or positions, often simultaneously, that are diverse in terms of setting, population, and scope of practice. Rather than working in a traditional full-time, long-term position, an OT with a portfolio career may have several freelance, part-time, or contract-based roles, each requiring a diverse set of skills or expertise.
For example, an OT with a portfolio career may work as a contractor, consultant or clinical practitioner taking on part-time positions and in various settings such as:
- hospitals
- schools
- clinics,
- rehabilitation centres or private practices
- teach part-time at a university
- offer private consulting services
- volunteer in a community organisation.
This approach allows the OT to expand their skill set, build a diverse network of professional clients, contacts and find different ways to contribute to the OT profession.
Portfolio careers can provide OTs with greater flexibility and control over their schedule, provide work-life balance, engage in other activities, such as, research, writing, or advocacy that complement their clinical work and contribute to their professional growth and development.
This type of career can offer a more varied and dynamic work experience but may also require a higher level of organisation and time management skills, as well as the ability to balance multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
We were able to capture the stories of OTs who have provided accounts of their experiences and share their knowledge and insight of their respective journey's having a portfolio career.