occupational therapy
What qualifications should an occupational therapist have?
An occupational therapist for your child should hold a recognised OT degree (BOT or MOT) from an approved institution and be registered with the Rehabilitation Council of India, ideally with paediatric experience and supervised training. You are always entitled to ask about qualifications and registration. A clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre under qualified clinician care.
Choosing someone to support your child's everyday skills starts with one fair question — is this person properly qualified?
In short
An occupational therapist supporting your child should hold a recognised occupational therapy degree (a Bachelor's — BOT — or Master's — MOT) from an approved institution, and be registered with the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) as required for rehabilitation professionals in India. For children specifically, look for paediatric experience and supervised training in areas like sensory processing, fine motor and daily-living skills. A good therapist will happily share their qualifications and registration — you are always entitled to ask.What to look for
- A formal OT qualification — a BOT (typically 4.5 years including internship) or an MOT from a recognised university or institute.
- RCI registration — India's [Rehabilitation Council of India](https://rehabcouncil.nic.in) maintains the register for rehabilitation professionals; registration signals recognised training and accountability.
- Paediatric experience — working with children needs specific skills in play-based therapy, sensory integration, fine motor development, handwriting readiness and self-care routines.
- Supervised practice and ongoing learning — newer therapists working under experienced clinicians, and senior therapists who keep their skills current, both point to good care.
- Clear communication with you — a strong therapist explains goals in plain language, coaches you for home practice, and works alongside your child's wider team.
It is completely reasonable to ask a prospective therapist where they trained, whether they are RCI-registered, and how much of their work is with children. A confident, caring professional welcomes these questions.
The Pinnacle way
A clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre, under qualified clinician care — never from an app or online form. Across [70+ centres in 4 states](/), our occupational therapy is delivered by qualified, RCI-aligned therapists within a 700+ strong clinical team, each child's plan shaped by a clinician-administered structured assessment built around their strengths.Trusted sources
Rehabilitation Council of India — registration framework for rehabilitation professionals in India. American Occupational Therapy and ASHA professional resources on the scope and training of paediatric therapists.Next step — Want to meet a qualified therapist for your child? Book an occupational therapy assessment with a Pinnacle clinician.
This is general information, not a diagnosis — a clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre under qualified clinician care.
What to watch
Check for a recognised OT degree (BOT or MOT), current Rehabilitation Council of India registration, genuine paediatric experience, and a therapist who explains goals clearly and welcomes your questions.
Try this at home
Before sessions begin, simply ask your therapist three things: where they trained, whether they are RCI-registered, and how much of their work is with children. A good professional will answer warmly.
Trusted sources
Developed by SETU Consortium · Pinnacle Blooms Network · Last reviewed 2026-06-10 · reviewed every 365 days
This is general information, not a diagnosis. A clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre, under qualified clinician care.
Frequently asked
What degree does an occupational therapist need in India?
A recognised occupational therapy degree — a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (BOT), typically around 4.5 years including internship, or a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) — from an approved institution.
Should an occupational therapist be registered with the RCI?
Yes. The Rehabilitation Council of India maintains the register for rehabilitation professionals, and registration signals recognised training and professional accountability. You can ask any therapist about their registration.
Does it matter if the therapist has worked with children before?
It helps a great deal. Paediatric occupational therapy needs specific skills in play-based therapy, sensory processing, fine motor development and self-care routines, so paediatric experience and supervised training are valuable.
Is it rude to ask a therapist about their qualifications?
Not at all — it is completely reasonable and expected. A caring, confident professional will happily explain where they trained, whether they are RCI-registered, and their experience with children.