Why More OTs in BC Are Choosing Private Practice

Let’s cut to the chase: OTs in BC aren’t “thinking about” private practice anymore - they’re moving into it. Fast. And it’s not a mystery why.

Across BC, therapists are hitting the ceiling of traditional roles - rigid structures, intensifying caseloads, limited autonomy and layers of bureaucracy that choke clinical creativity. Meanwhile, private practice has shifted from a “risky side path” to a high‑control, high‑impact career move.

1. The Demand in BC Is Exploding

Private practice isn’t a fringe option anymore - it’s a recognized, respected and increasingly necessary part of BC’s health ecosystem. Provincial guidance explicitly acknowledges the growing role of private OTs in providing safe, ethical, community‑based services and outlines the competencies needed to enter this expanding sector.

Simply put: BC needs more private OTs - and the profession knows it.

2. Experienced Clinicians Want Their Autonomy Back

Across Canada, more OTs are choosing self‑employment, contracting and independent practice models because these roles offer flexibility, control and alignment with the diverse practice areas OTs actually want to work in - ergonomics, community rehab, return‑to‑work, mental health, case management, adaptive tech…you name it! The national trends reflect what BC clinicians are feeling: ownership of your practice means ownership of your career.

3. The Sustainability Crisis in Traditional Roles Is Pushing OTs Toward Better Options

Burnout among OTs is no longer subtle - it’s documented, widespread and deeply tied to system constraints like workload, emotional strain and limited resources. Studies show that clinicians with greater autonomy and control report significantly lower burnout and higher job satisfaction - exactly what private practice at Trilight Health offers.

So yes, the trend is real: OTs in BC are choosing environments where they can actually thrive - not just survive.

The Shift Is Here. Are You Moving With It or Will You Miss Out?

Private practice in BC is no longer the “brave” option. It’s the strategic one. If you’re an OT watching the landscape change, wondering whether it’s time to step into something bigger, bolder and yours - pay attention. Because the trend isn’t slowing down. And the clinicians leading it?

They’re the ones finally practicing the way they always knew they could.

Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists. (n.d.). Is private practice right for you?

College of Health Care Professionals of British Columbia. (2024). Practice guidance for occupational therapists: Considerations for starting or closing a private practice (April 2024).

Lynner, B., Stoa, R., Fisher, G., del Pozo, E., & Lizerbram, R. (2025). Feel the burn, heal the burn: Job crafting and burnout among occupational therapy professionals. American Journal of Occupational Therapy,