Landing a job as an occupational therapist (OT) involves more than just having a degree or certification. The interview process evaluates your clinical skills, patient care philosophy, interpersonal abilities, and problem-solving approach. Whether you’re entering the field for the first time or advancing your career, preparing for occupational therapist interview questions is crucial.
This guide will walk you through 25 common OT interview questions, along with tips for crafting strong answers and additional advice to stand out.
Why Occupational Therapist Interviews Are Unique
Occupational therapists play a critical role in helping patients regain independence, manage chronic conditions, and adapt to life-altering challenges. Employers look for candidates who demonstrate not only technical knowledge but also empathy, creativity, and the ability to communicate effectively. Unlike typical job interviews, OT interviews often include scenario-based questions, ethics-related inquiries, and questions assessing patient interaction skills.
Interviewers may also evaluate your adaptability and approach to individualized care. The goal is to understand how you respond to real-world situations that demand both clinical expertise and human sensitivity.
How to Prepare for an Occupational Therapist Interview
Preparation is key to succeeding in an OT interview. Here’s a structured approach:
- Review Your Resume and Experience: Highlight specific cases, internships, or volunteer work where you made measurable differences in patient outcomes. Be ready to discuss challenges you faced and how you addressed them.
- Understand the Employer: Research the clinic, hospital, or organization you are interviewing with. Familiarize yourself with their patient population, therapy approaches, and values.
- Brush Up on Clinical Knowledge: Be prepared to answer questions about assessment tools, treatment planning, and best practices in occupational therapy.
- Practice Behavioral Responses: OT interviews often include behavioral questions designed to understand how you approach patient care, teamwork, and ethical dilemmas. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure answers.
- Anticipate Scenario-Based Questions: Interviewers may present case studies or hypothetical situations to see your problem-solving abilities in action.
- Prepare Questions for the Interviewer: Asking insightful questions shows interest and demonstrates your proactive mindset.
25 Common Occupational Therapist Interview Questions
Here are 25 occupational therapist interview questions, along with guidance on how to answer them effectively.
1. Can you describe your experience working with patients of different age groups?
“I’ve had the chance to work with patients across all age ranges—children, adults, and older adults. With kids, I often use play-based therapy to keep them engaged while helping them develop motor or cognitive skills. With adults, especially those recovering from injuries, I focus on helping them regain independence in daily routines like cooking or returning to work. For older adults, my approach usually involves fall prevention, mobility training, and adapting activities to maintain their independence. Each age group has unique challenges, and I enjoy tailoring my techniques to meet their needs.”
2. How do you assess a patient’s functional abilities?
“I usually start with a combination of observation, patient interviews, and standardized assessments. I want to understand what the patient can do on their own, where they need assistance, and what goals they personally care about. For example, I might watch how a stroke patient manages dressing themselves, or I might use specific assessments like the FIM. From there, I create a baseline and use it to develop an individualized treatment plan.”
3. Describe a challenging case and how you handled it.
“One challenging case I had was working with a young patient who had little motivation after a traumatic injury. Instead of focusing only on exercises, I took time to connect with him and learn what he enjoyed—he loved gaming. So I incorporated activities that mimicked gaming movements and gradually connected them to real-life tasks. It took patience, but by linking therapy to his interests, he became more engaged, and we saw real progress.”
4. How do you develop individualized treatment plans?
“I always start with the patient’s goals and needs. For example, if someone wants to cook for themselves again after a stroke, I build a plan around that rather than just focusing on generic exercises. I assess their abilities, set realistic milestones, and choose interventions that balance challenge with success. I also regularly review the plan and adjust it if the patient progresses faster or slower than expected.”
5. How do you measure progress in your patients?
“I measure progress by combining objective and subjective measures. I track specific goals, like how much assistance they need for dressing, and I also ask for their feedback—how confident they feel, or if they notice improvements in daily life. Sometimes even small changes, like being able to button a shirt independently, can show huge progress.”
6. What strategies do you use to motivate patients?
“I believe motivation comes from making therapy meaningful. I always tie activities to something that matters to them—whether it’s being able to play with their grandkids or get back to work. I also celebrate small milestones to keep their spirits up. Sometimes, breaking tasks into smaller steps makes them feel less overwhelming and keeps the patient motivated.”
7. How do you handle patients who are non-compliant?
“First, I try to understand why they’re resistant. Sometimes it’s pain, fear, or simply not seeing the value in therapy. Once I know the reason, I adjust my approach—like modifying exercises to be less painful, or showing them how therapy connects directly to their goals. I’ve found that empathy and clear communication go a long way in building trust and cooperation.”
8. Can you explain your knowledge of assistive technology?
“I’ve worked with a variety of devices, from basic tools like grab bars and reachers to more advanced technology like mobility aids and communication software. For example, I once helped a patient with arthritis learn to use adaptive kitchen tools so they could cook independently. I enjoy teaching patients how to use these devices because even small adjustments can make a big difference in their independence.”
9. Describe your experience with interdisciplinary teams.
“Collaboration is a huge part of occupational therapy. I’ve worked alongside physical therapists, speech therapists, nurses, and doctors. One example was a stroke patient where I coordinated with the PT for mobility goals and the speech therapist for swallowing safety. By working as a team, we were able to create a holistic plan that supported the patient’s overall recovery.”
10. How do you ensure patient safety during therapy?
“I always start by assessing risks—like fall hazards or fatigue. I make sure equipment is safe and that the patient is physically able to handle the activity. I also give clear instructions and stay close during high-risk exercises. Safety doesn’t just protect the patient, it also helps them build confidence in the process.”
11. How do you handle ethical dilemmas in occupational therapy?
“When faced with an ethical dilemma, I always fall back on professional standards and patient rights. For example, if a family member wanted me to share information that the patient didn’t consent to, I would respect confidentiality while still guiding the family as best as I can. I believe honesty, respect, and following ethical guidelines are non-negotiable in healthcare.”
12. What is your approach to continuing education?
“I see continuing education as essential. I regularly attend workshops, webinars, and read research articles to stay updated on best practices. For example, I recently completed a course on sensory integration techniques, which gave me new tools for working with pediatric patients. I think staying current benefits both me and my patients.”
13. How do you address cultural differences in patient care?
“I always start by asking questions and listening carefully. I want to understand the patient’s cultural background and values so I can adapt therapy accordingly. For example, if certain activities or touch are not appropriate, I’ll adjust the plan. Respect and flexibility help me build stronger relationships with diverse patients.”
14. How do you handle a high caseload?
“Time management is key. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and patient needs, and I try to streamline documentation without cutting corners. I’ve also learned that clear communication with colleagues helps balance the workload. Even under pressure, I make sure each patient still feels heard and cared for.”
15. Describe a time when you disagreed with a colleague about a treatment plan.
“Once, I disagreed with a PT about whether a patient was ready for certain mobility exercises. Instead of arguing, we sat down to compare notes and share perspectives. We ended up creating a hybrid plan that balanced both safety and progress. I think these situations are opportunities to learn and collaborate, not compete.”
16. What experience do you have with pediatric occupational therapy?
“I’ve worked with children with developmental delays and autism, using play-based and sensory activities to improve their skills. I also work closely with families to teach strategies they can use at home. One of the most rewarding experiences was seeing a child who struggled with fine motor tasks finally learn to tie their shoes—it was a huge confidence boost for them.”
17. How do you handle stress and burnout in your profession?
“I try to take care of myself the same way I encourage patients to do. I practice mindfulness, exercise regularly, and make sure to set boundaries between work and personal life. When I do feel overwhelmed, I talk with colleagues—it helps to share experiences and get support. That way, I can stay focused and present for my patients.”
18. What techniques do you use for cognitive rehabilitation?
“I’ve used strategies like memory aids, problem-solving games, and task sequencing. For example, with a patient recovering from a brain injury, I used step-by-step routines and checklists to help them manage daily activities. Over time, we reduced the supports as they improved. I find it’s about gradually building independence.”
19. How do you involve family members in a patient’s treatment plan?
“I see families as partners in care. I explain the goals clearly, show them exercises, and encourage them to participate. For instance, I once trained a patient’s spouse on how to safely assist with transfers at home, which made them both more confident and reduced the risk of injury.”
20. What is your experience with documentation and electronic medical records (EMRs)?
“I’m very comfortable with EMRs and know how important accurate documentation is. I make sure my notes are clear, concise, and reflect progress toward goals. I also stay mindful of deadlines and compliance standards. Good documentation not only helps with continuity of care but also protects both patients and providers.”
21. Describe a time you had to adapt therapy for a patient with special needs.
“I once worked with a patient who had severe cerebral palsy and very limited mobility. Traditional exercises weren’t possible, so I focused on adaptive equipment and positioning strategies to make daily activities easier. It taught me the value of creativity and patient-centered care—sometimes the smallest changes can create the biggest impact.”
22. How do you prioritize patient goals?
“I start by listening to the patient and their family. Then I look at safety, independence, and feasibility. If a patient wants to return to driving but first needs to build upper body strength, I prioritize smaller steps that lead to the bigger goal. Breaking things down keeps the therapy realistic and motivating.”
23. What is your experience with home health occupational therapy?
“I’ve done home visits where I assess the environment for safety risks and recommend modifications, like grab bars or rearranging furniture. I also train patients and families to adapt daily routines at home. I enjoy home health because it gives me a chance to see patients in their real environments, which often leads to more practical solutions.”
24. How do you ensure evidence-based practice in your therapy?
“I regularly read professional journals and attend continuing education courses to keep up with new research. When I learn about a new technique, I evaluate its evidence and see if it fits my patients’ needs. For example, I started using a newer sensory strategy after learning about its proven benefits for kids with autism.”
25. Why did you choose occupational therapy as a career?
“I chose occupational therapy because I’ve always wanted to help people live more independent and fulfilling lives. What drew me in was the holistic nature of the work—we don’t just look at a condition, we look at the whole person. Seeing someone achieve something they thought was impossible, like dressing themselves again or returning to work, is incredibly rewarding and motivates me every day.”
Common Themes in Occupational Therapist Interviews
When preparing for an OT interview, notice these recurring themes:
- Patient-Centered Care: Emphasizing empathy, individualized therapy, and respect for patients’ preferences.
- Clinical Competence: Demonstrating knowledge of assessments, interventions, and therapy techniques.
- Teamwork and Communication: Ability to collaborate with colleagues, families, and interdisciplinary teams.
- Problem-Solving: Handling difficult cases, ethical dilemmas, and non-compliant patients.
- Professional Growth: Commitment to lifelong learning, certifications, and staying current with research.
Additional Tips for Answering Occupational Therapist Interview Questions
Preparing strong answers to common questions is only half the battle. To truly stand out, you’ll also need to showcase your personality, adaptability, and passion for patient care. These extra tips will help you leave a lasting impression.
Be Specific and Provide Examples
Interviewers want proof of your abilities, not just claims. Use real examples to demonstrate your skills and impact. Share measurable results or patient outcomes whenever possible to make your responses stand out.
Demonstrate Empathy and Interpersonal Skills
Occupational therapy is highly people-focused, so show how you connect with patients and families. Talk about building trust, supporting motivation, and respecting emotions. This highlights your ability to improve the therapeutic relationship.
Practice Scenario-Based Responses
Expect role-play or patient scenarios in interviews. Practice talking through your clinical reasoning step by step. Be ready to explain treatment choices clearly and show how you adapt strategies to meet different patient needs.
Stay Updated on Best Practices
Employers want therapists who keep learning and applying new knowledge. Reference professional journals, workshops, or certifications. This shows your commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional growth.
Show Flexibility and Problem-Solving
Every patient presents unique challenges, so flexibility is essential. Share examples of how you adapted treatment plans or introduced creative solutions. Demonstrating problem-solving shows resilience and readiness for complex cases.
How to Follow Up After an Occupational Therapist Interview
Post-interview etiquette is just as important as preparation:
- Send a Thank-You Email: Express gratitude for the opportunity and briefly reiterate why you are a strong fit.
- Mention Specific Points: Reference a discussion or case scenario from the interview to reinforce your engagement.
- Express Enthusiasm: Highlight your excitement about contributing to the clinic or hospital’s mission.
- Be Patient: Employers may take time to decide. Avoid excessive follow-ups, but a polite check-in after a week or two is acceptable.
Get Interview-Ready with a Strong Resume
Mastering interview questions is only half the battle—getting called in starts with a standout resume. Our expert resume writing services craft tailored occupational therapist resumes that showcase your skills, experience, and passion for patient care. Let us help you land more interviews and feel confident from the first impression to the final handshake.
What should I wear to an occupational therapist interview?
Professional attire is recommended. Aim for a polished look that conveys confidence and respect for the role, such as business casual or formal, depending on the employer.
How can I research the facility before the interview?
Check the organization’s website, social media, and recent news articles. Pay attention to their patient population, mission, and values to align your answers with their goals.
Should I bring anything to my interview?
Yes, bring extra copies of your resume, a list of references, and any relevant certifications. A notepad and pen are also helpful for jotting down key details.
How long do occupational therapist interviews usually last?
Most interviews range from 30 minutes to an hour, but panel or second-round interviews may take longer, especially if they include case studies or role-playing.
What questions should I ask the interviewer?
Consider asking about patient caseloads, continuing education opportunities, or mentorship programs. This shows genuine interest in both the role and long-term growth.
