Physical therapists help developmentally disabled individuals work on their motor skills.
People with developmental disabilities have impairments in physical or mental functioning. These disabilities are chronic, life-long problems for the individual. Many career paths lead to work with the developmentally disabled. Education and training toward working with this population is essential for succeeding in this field.
Career Options
Those who want to work with the developmentally disabled can choose from a variety of career options. An interest in interacting with children could lead you to special education, pediatric nursing or school psychology. If you wish to work with developmentally disabled adults, consider occupational therapy, physical therapy or rehabilitation management positions. Social work is another field to consider, as social services professionals working with the developmentally disabled can find their work highly rewarding, according to SocialWorker.com.
Academic Training
Training varies, depending on the chosen career path. Becoming a special education teacher's aide or a certified nursing assistant requires completion of a certificate program. Many people who work with developmentally disabled populations hold bachelor's degrees in special education or developmental psychology. Graduate degrees are required for positions as a physical therapist, doctor or school psychologist.
Certification and Licensing
Licensing requirements for working with developmentally disabled individuals vary by state. For professional programs, such as physical therapy or occupational therapy, educational requirements must be met and a state-administered exam must be passed. Check with the state board that governs your profession to determine the appropriate licensing regulations for developmental disabilities work.
Time Frame
Certificate programs or associate's degree programs that allow you to work with developmentally disabled individuals, as an aide or assistant, take one or two years to complete. A four-year bachelor's degree from a college or university opens more career opportunities, allowing for greater advancement in the field. Graduate degree programs take an additional two to seven years beyond a bachelor's degree, and lead to specialized work as a developmental disabilities professional.
Considerations
Supplement your education and training by working with developmentally disabled people in a volunteer or employment setting. Gain as much experience as possible with different groups of disabled individuals, to demonstrate your ability to succeed in the field. Academic education is not enough to work well with the developmentally disabled. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, working with developmentally disabled individuals requires patience, compassion and strong communication skills.
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