If you’re a new or early-career OT, I want to start by saying this: the feeling that you’re “not quite good enough yet” is far more common than you think.
Imposter syndrome shows up quietly. It’s the hesitation before making a clinical decision. It’s the second-guessing after a session. It’s the comparison to more experienced therapists, wondering how they make it all look so easy. It’s just that little niggly feeling in the back of your mind.
I’ve seen it in so many OTs I’ve worked with—and if I’m honest, I still feel it myself too.
But it’s International Imposter Syndrome Awareness Month so I am going to do my best, and utilise my 30+ years of industry experience, to de-mystify imposter syndrome and try provide some strategies you can use to boost your self-talk and professional confidence.
But first, what can Imposter Syndrome look like in OT
In our profession, imposter syndrome often doesn’t look like a lack of confidence on the surface. You will likely still show up, deliver sessions, and write reports – but internally, it can feel very different. I sometimes compare it to the ‘duck’ analogy where ducks looks quite calm and serene as the float along the water but under the surfaces, their little feet are kicking like mad. That’s what it can look like for us: calm and business-as-usual on top but a whirlpool of self-doubt and questioning hidden underneath.
So i find that as an OT, imposter syndrome might present as:
- Worrying you’re missing something important in sessions
- Feeling anxious when parents ask questions you can’t immediately answer
- Over-preparing or over-researching to “prove” you know enough
- Comparing yourself to senior clinicians and feel like you don’t measure up
- Attributing success to luck rather than your clinical reasoning
The tricky part is that OT is complex. There’s rarely one “right” answer, which can make those feelings even louder.
Why It Happens (Especially in OT)
Occupational therapy sits at the intersection of so many skill sets – physical, emotional, sensory, developmental, environmental. You’re expected to think holistically, adapt constantly, and justify your decisions. Then, you add in the paeds element which makes it that much more complex.
And that’s a lot.
When you’re still building your clinical reasoning, it’s completely natural to feel unsure. You’re not just learning what to do—you’re learning why you’re doing it.
And that takes time.
Reframing the Narrative
Managing imposter syndrome all boils down to you, and your mindset. I wish I could wave my magic wand to remove all feelings of doubt and second-guessing but there is no instant-fix strategy. Instead, it’s all about re-training your mind and self-talk.
One of the most helpful shifts I’ve seen is moving from:
“I should know this by now” to “I’m still learning, and that’s part of being a good OT.”
And this shouldn’t ever stop. Even with my 30+ years as an OT and business owner, I am still learning (and that the best part about being a good OT). So this isn’t just advice for new grads, it’s something for all of us.
Confidence in OT doesn’t come from knowing everything. It comes from:
- Committing to being a life-long learner
- Being curious
- Reflecting on your practice
- Being willing to ask questions
- Learning from each client and experience
The OTs who grow the most aren’t the ones who never doubt themselves they’re the ones who keep striving to better themselves and their practice.
Practical Ways to Manage Imposter Syndrome
1. Anchor yourself in what you do know
After a session, take a moment to reflect on what went well. What did you notice? What did you respond to effectively? Build evidence for your competence.
2. Use supervision intentionally
Supervision isn’t just for “problems.” Bring your uncertainty into the conversation. Talking through your thinking is one of the fastest ways to build confidence.
3. Normalise not having all the answers
It’s okay to say, “That’s a great question – let me look into that and get back to you.” This isn’t a weakness; it’s good practice.
4. Focus on progress, not perfection
You’re not aiming to be the perfect OT – you’re aiming to be a developing one. Growth is the goal.
5. Limit unhelpful comparison
Comparing yourself to someone with 5+ years of experience isn’t a fair benchmark. Instead, compare yourself to where you were 3 months ago.
Adding these five simple reframes into regular practice will really help quiet those pesky thoughts (I know they do for me).
And remember…
Imposter syndrome doesn’t mean you’re not capable. In many ways, it reflects that you care deeply about doing a good job.
And that matters.
Your clients don’t need a “perfect” OT. They need someone who is present, thoughtful, and willing to keep learning—and that’s exactly what you’re becoming.
