Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Why So Many Occupational Therapists Struggle & How to Break Free

As Occupational Therapists, we’re no strangers to high standards, constant learning, and adapting to ever-changing clinical settings. But what happens when these traits become the very things holding us back? In this post, we’re talking all about imposter syndrome - and why it seems to hit our profession so hard.

Whether you’re a seasoned OT with decades of experience or a newly qualified therapist just stepping into the world of healthcare, imposter syndrome can feel paralysing. You’ve got the ideas, the passion, and the qualifications - yet that nagging voice whispers, “You’re not ready. You’re not good enough.”

Let’s unpack this. Let’s get real. Because this conversation could be the shift you’ve been waiting for.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is that inner voice that tells you you’ve only succeeded due to luck. That you’re a fraud. That someone’s going to “find you out.”

As an OT, it might sound like:

• “I don’t know enough.”
  
  
• “There are others more qualified than me.”
  
  
• “I can’t possibly run a business. I need another qualification first.”
  
  
• “I was just lucky to pass.”
  
  

But here’s the truth - you did qualify. You do have the skills. And that internal narrative? It’s not truth. It’s fear in disguise.

Why Is It So Common in Occupational Therapy?

Let’s break down why imposter syndrome feels rampant in OT:

1. Our Skill Set Is Incredibly Broad
   Unlike some healthcare professions, OT doesn’t have a single, universally understood role. We work in paediatrics, mental health, physical rehab - and because we wear so many hats, it can be hard to confidently own just one identity.
   
   
2. Our Professional Identity Feels Misunderstood
   How often do you find yourself explaining what you actually do? That lack of external recognition can easily turn inward and affect your self-belief.
   
   
3. The Healthcare Hierarchy
   In many settings, OTs are not seen as the primary decision-makers. This lack of visibility and authority can lead us to believe we’re not ‘expert enough’ to lead, innovate or go out on our own.
   
   
4. We’re Obsessed With Learning (To Our Detriment)
   OTs love a good CPD course. But when professional development becomes a stalling tactic, it’s imposter syndrome disguised as productivity. You don’t need one more qualification to start - you just need to begin.
   
   

My Personal Story With Imposter Syndrome

After 10 years as a confident OT, my life took a turn - personally and professionally. I was thrown into a new role I didn’t want, with a team of experienced staff. My confidence shattered. I felt like a student again. I began hiding, over-explaining, and doubting everything I once knew.

It was one of the hardest periods of my life, but it showed me just how deeply imposter syndrome can infiltrate - even for the most experienced therapists.

The Cost of Staying Stuck

Here’s the tough love moment: if left unchecked, imposter syndrome will rob you of years.

I’ve had OTs come to me after 20 years of sitting on a business idea they’ve never acted on - all because they were “waiting to feel ready.”

Let me be clear: you will never feel ready. The magic happens when you take imperfect action anyway.

What Can You Do?

Here are some real, practical steps you can take today:

• Recognise imposter syndrome for what it is: a perception issue, not a truth.
  
  
• Collect your evidence: your degree, your experience, every life you’ve impacted - it all counts.
  
  
• Take action now: one small step towards your goal today is more powerful than another course you don’t need.
  
  
• Ditch comparison: your path is yours. You’re not here to be the best OT - you’re here to be you.
  
  
• Reframe the voice: instead of “Who am I to do this?” try, “Why not me?”
  
  

You already have everything you need to begin. Your lived experiences, unique skills, and ideas are all valid. Your business dreams are worth it.

Ready to Create Your Freedom-Based Business?

If you’re an OT with 3–10 hours per week spare, the OT Yourself to Freedom Membership will teach you how to build a sustainable online business - in a supportive, affordable way.

If you’ve got 10+ hours and are ready to go all in, the OT Freedom Collective is a six-month, life-changing experience designed to launch and scale your business with support from myself and our team.

Book a Free 1:1 Discovery Call

Want personalised guidance, tailored strategy, and someone to walk alongside you as you create your dream business?

Book a 1:1 call with me HERE

Let’s get to know each other and see how I can support your journey to freedom.

Prefer to Listen?

You can catch the full podcast episode of "Overcoming Imposter Syndrome for OTs" on the OT Yourself to Freedom Podcast.

Listen here 

Have you battled with imposter syndrome as an OT? Leave a comment or share this post with a colleague who needs it.