Competencies for Occupational Therapists in Canada 2021

The Competencies for Occupational Therapists in Canada 2021 are now in effect for Ontario’s occupational therapists. Occupational therapists are expected to demonstrate the competencies described in this document. This document was developed to provide a  unifying competency document for occupational therapists in Canada and identifies six competency domains:  Occupational Therapy Expertise; Communication and Collaboration; Culture, Equity, and Justice; Excellence in Practice; Professional Responsibility; and Engagement with the Profession.  Specific competencies and indicators are identified within each competency domain.

It will take some time to fully transition related documents (e.g., fieldwork evaluations) and assessments (certification exam). As this transition occurs, it may be useful for occupational therapists and learners to be familiar with the Essential Competencies for Occupational Therapists in Canada which was used prior to November 2021 in Ontario, and which continues to be used in some Canadian provinces at the present time.