If you’re an Occupational Therapist dreaming of a freedom-led lifestyle, you’re not alone. More and more OTs are recognising that the traditional path doesn’t have to be the only option. Whether you’re burnt out in clinical practice or simply craving more autonomy, the opportunity to build a thriving online business as an OT has never been greater.

In this blog, we’ll break down what I call the OT Business Trifecta: Clients, Cash and Confidence. These are the three pillars that support every successful online occupational therapy business.

Let’s explore how you can attract aligned clients, confidently price your services, and show up with purpose — all while creating the lifestyle you’ve always wanted.

1. Clients: If No One Knows What You Do, They Can’t Pay You

This may sound obvious, but it’s one of the biggest mistakes I see occupational therapists making when they first start their business. You could be the most skilled therapist in the world — but if you’re unclear about who you serve and what you offer, and if you’re afraid to be seen, you simply won’t attract clients.

Occupational Therapists often struggle with:

• Vague messaging like “holistic, client-centred care” that doesn’t differentiate them.
• Fear of being visible or sounding “salesy”.
• Using professional jargon that clients don’t understand.

🧠 Top Tip: Niche down and get specific. Know exactly who you’re helping and what their pain points are. Say it loudly and clearly — on your website, your social media, and in every conversation you have online.

For example:

• Instead of saying “I support sensory integration,” try: “I help children who melt down in noisy shops or cover their ears in loud environments.”

Use the language your clients actually use. Drop the clinical terminology and write for the real people you’re trying to help. If a 10-year-old can understand your Instagram caption, you’re on the right track.

2. Cash: Charging Fairly and Ditching the Guilt Around Money

Talking about money makes many therapists uncomfortable — especially if you’ve worked in the NHS or within systems that equate “helping” with low pay.

But let’s be clear: You’re running a business. And businesses need to make money to be sustainable.

Pricing your services too low isn’t generosity — it’s often rooted in shame. As Brene Brown says, undercharging is not noble, it’s often about feeling not enough.

💡 Top Tip: Know your worth. Consider your:

• Years of education
• Unique expertise as an OT
• Transformational results you help people achieve

Don’t try to compete on price. Compete on value. Package your services in ways that feel aligned, exciting, and premium. When clients invest more, they commit more — and they get better outcomes.

Remember: undercharging helps no one. It leads to burnout, resentment, and poor results.

3. Confidence: Your Business Grows as Fast as You Do

Confidence isn’t something you wait for. It’s something you build through action.

I often remind my clients: Clarity comes from engagement, not from overthinking. You can have the best strategy in the world, but if you don’t believe in yourself, it won’t land.

👣 Top Tip: Take imperfect action — daily.

Show up before you feel fully ready. Post the video. Share the blog. Offer the service. You don’t need polished branding or viral reels. You just need visibility and consistency.

✨ Bonus tip: Keep a “confidence bank” journal. Every time a client gives you feedback, or you hit a small win, write it down. Revisit it often to rewire your mindset and remind yourself that you’re making an impact.

The Power of Community: Surround Yourself With Growth-Minded OTs

One of the most underrated aspects of growing an online OT business is the power of community. When you’re surrounded by others on the same journey, your confidence, resilience, and motivation multiply.

A recent study from the University of Cambridge found that self-employed professionals with strong peer networks report 37% higher confidence in their work and decision-making.

So if you’re serious about building a business, find your people. Don’t do it alone.

Ready to Take Back Control of Your Career?

If you’re ready to take back control — to build a business that grows with you instead of draining you — that’s exactly what we help OTs do.

We’ve been running events for years to show occupational therapists the vast potential of their skillset in non-traditional methods. We’ve helped hundreds of OTs to pivot, and design their own freedom-based businesses. And by that, I mean working online — and no, I’m not talking about telehealth.

The potential is vast — to double your income or more, while working less.

There’s no reason to keep accepting conditions that no longer serve you — if you don’t wish to.

• 🟢 If you’re brand new to business, start by watching OTs Rising — our on-demand event introducing you to the potential.
• 🔵 Already running a business? Then Take the Busy out of Business is the next step for you.

Let’s stop the slow bleed.
Let’s build something sustainable, profitable, and actually freeing.

💬 If you’re serious about taking the next step and creating your life of freedom, book in a call and speak to me here.