National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 Version 1.0
3 - Health occupations
This broad category comprises specialized middle management occupations in health care, as well as occupations concerned with providing health care services directly to patients (professional and technical occupations in health) and occupations that provide support to health services.
31 - Professional occupations in health
This major group comprises professional occupations in health, including health treating and consultation services professionals; therapy and assessment professionals; and nursing and allied health professionals. These occupations come with Training, Education, Experience and Responsibility (TEER) identified as TEER 1. Occupations classified in TEER 1, as those in this group with a 1 as the second digit of their code, typically require a university degree (bachelor's, master's or doctorate) or the accumulation several years of experience and expertise in the subject matter knowledge in a related occupation found in TEER 2, when applicable (which includes occupations with a 2 as a second digit in their code).
312 - Therapy and assessment professionals
This sub-major group comprises therapy and assessment professionals, including psychologists; chiropractors; physiotherapists; occupational therapists; kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment; and other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating.
3120 - Therapy and assessment professionals
This minor group comprises therapy and assessment professionals, including psychologists; chiropractors; physiotherapists; occupational therapists; kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment; and other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating. They are employed by hospitals, community and public health centres, extended care and health care facilities, nursing homes, clinics, rehabilitation and recreational centres, and private and social services agencies; educational institutions, and sports organizations; in industry; or they may work in private practice.
31200 - Psychologists
Psychologists assess and diagnose behavioural, emotional and cognitive disorders, counsel clients, provide therapy, conduct research and apply theory relating to behaviour and mental processes. Psychologists help clients work toward the maintenance and enhancement of psychological, physical, intellectual, emotional, social and interpersonal functioning. They work in private practice or in clinics, correctional facilities, hospitals, mental health facilities, rehabilitation centres, community service organizations, businesses, schools and universities, and in government and private research agencies.
Illustrative example(s)
- clinical psychologist
- psychological associate
- psychologist
- research psychologist
Exclusion(s)
- Psychiatrist (See 31100 Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine)
- Psychology assistant (except university) (See 41403 Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers)
- Psychology professor - university (See 41200 University professors and lecturers)
- Psychology research assistant (except university) (See 12113 Statistical officers and related research support occupations)
- Psychometrist (See 41409 Other professional occupations in social science)
- Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies (See 41301 Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies)
Main duties
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
- Examine and assess behaviour, diagnose behavioural, emotional and cognitive disorders, counsel clients and provide therapy
- Help clients manage physical illness and disorders
- Counsel individuals and groups to achieve more effective personal, social and vocational development and adjustment, and offer mediation services
- Use standard psychological tests for assessment
- Plan intervention programs and conduct program evaluation
- Apply psychological theory and principles regarding behaviour and mental processes such as learning, language development, memory and perception to develop treatment programs
- Formulate hypotheses and experimental designs, review literature, conduct studies and publish research papers, educational texts and articles
- Deliver presentations at conferences, workshops or symposia
- Provide consultation services to government and other organizations.
- Conduct applied psychology and/or experimental research.
Sub-specialties include behavioural psychology, child psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, educational psychology, industrial psychology, neuropsychology, social psychology or sports psychology.
Employment requirements
- A doctoral degree in psychology is required in order to use the designation "Psychologist" in Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia.
- A master's degree in psychology is required for the designation "Psychologist" in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan, Alberta, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
- A master's degree in psychology is required in order to use the designation "Psychological Associate" in Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia.
- A period of supervised practical experience is required in most jurisdictions.
- Successful completion of the written Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is required in most provinces.
- Oral examinations and board interviews are required in some provinces.
- Registration with a regulatory body is required in all provinces, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
- Written ethics and jurisprudence exams may be required in some jurisdictions.
- Psychologists can become specialized in a particular area through training and experience.
Additional information
- Psychological associates may be granted permission by provincial regulatory authorities to perform duties normally restricted to psychologists, specifically diagnosing psychological disorders and communicating diagnoses to clients.
31201 - Chiropractors
Chiropractors assess, diagnose, treat and prevent patients' neuromuscular-skeletal disorders of the spine, nervous system, pelvis and other body joints using corrective manipulation including spinal column adjustments, or other complementary therapies. They are usually in private practice or in clinics with other health practitioners.
Illustrative example(s)
- chiropractor
Exclusion(s)
- Chiropractic aide (See 33109 Other assisting occupations in support of health services)
Main duties
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
- Conduct patient interviews and take medical histories
- Conduct an examination including postural assessment, range of motion tests, neurological and orthopedic examination, and palpation of joints and soft tissues
- Prescribe and/or perform X-rays and other imaging and tests as required to diagnose patient's condition
- Diagnose neuromuscular-skeletal disorders of the spinal column, pelvis, extremities and associated tissues
- Define and implement a treatment plan including spinal and joint adjustment or manipulations, soft tissue work and/or the use of complementary therapies; such as electrotherapy, acupuncture, heat therapy and massage.
- Communicate and collaborate with other health care professionals
- Advise patients on alternate treatment modalities such as corrective exercises, posture, nutritional and lifestyle counselling, that have positive effects on the spine, joints, muscles and nervous system
- Refer patients to other health care professionals when appropriate.
Employment requirements
- A minimum of three years of university undergraduate studies or in Quebec, completion of a college diploma in natural science is required.
- Completion of a four or five year program at an Accredited Doctor of Chiropractic Education Programme is required.
- Successful completion of the national examinations by the Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board is required to qualify to become licensed by a provincial or territorial body.
- Licensing by a regulatory body is required in all provinces and in Yukon.
Additional information
- The scope of practice of chiropractors varies by province.
31202 - Physiotherapists
Physiotherapists assess clients and plan and carry out individually designed treatment programs to maintain, improve or restore physical functioning and mobility, alleviate pain and prevent physical dysfunction in clients. They are employed in hospitals, clinics, industry, sports organizations, rehabilitation centres and extended care facilities, or may work in private practice.
Illustrative example(s)
- physical therapist
- physiotherapist
- registered physiotherapist
- research physiotherapist
Inclusion(s)
- physical therapy clinical coordinator
- physiotherapy clinical coordinator
Exclusion(s)
- Director of physiotherapy (See 30010 Managers in health care)
- Physical rehabilitation therapist (See 32109 Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment)
- Physiotherapy assistant (See 32109 Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment)
Main duties
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
- Assess clients' physical abilities using assessment procedures such as functional ability tests and make a physiotherapy diagnosis
- Establish treatment goals with clients based on diagnosis
- Develop and implement physiotherapy treatment plans including therapeutic exercise, manipulations, massage, education, electrotherapy hydrotherapy and other modalities
- Evaluate effectiveness of treatment plans and modify accordingly
- Provide advice on exercise and strategies to implement at home to enhance and or maintain treatment
- Communicate with referring physician and other health care professionals regarding clients' problems, needs and progress
- Maintain clinical and statistical records and confer with other health care professionals
- Develop and implement health promotion programs for clients, staff and the community
- May conduct research in physiotherapy
- Provide consulting or education services as required.
Physiotherapists may focus their practice in particular clinical areas such as neurology, oncology, rheumatology, orthopedics, obstetrics, pediatrics, geriatrics, in the treatment of patients with cardiovascular and cardiopulmonary disorders, burns or sports injuries or in the field of ergonomics.
Employment requirements
- A master's degree in physiotherapy and a period of supervised practical training are required.
- A licence or registration with a regulatory body is required in all provinces and territories.
- Completion of a physiotherapist competency examination is required in all provinces and territories.
Additional information
- Progression to management positions, such as director of physiotherapy, is possible through experience and additional training.
31203 - Occupational therapists
Occupational therapists develop individual and group programs with people affected by illness, injury, developmental disorders, emotional or psychological problems and aging to maintain, restore or increase their ability to care for themselves and to engage in work, school or leisure. They also develop and implement health promotion programs with individuals, community groups and employers. They are employed in health care facilities, in schools, and by private and social services agencies, or they may be self-employed.
Illustrative example(s)
- case manager occupational therapist
- clinical occupational therapist
- community occupational therapist
- occupational therapist (OT)
- occupational therapy rehabilitation consultant
- research and development occupational therapist
Exclusion(s)
- Director of occupational therapy (See 30010 Managers in health care)
- Orientation and mobility instructor (See 42203 Instructors of persons with disabilities)
Main duties
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
- Analyse clients' capabilities and expectations related to life activities through observation, interviews and formal assessments
- Develop intervention programs to address clients' needs related to self-care, work and leisure activities
- Maintain clients' records
- Establish personalized care plans working as a member of an interdisciplinary team
- Consult and advise on health promotion programs to prevent disabilities and to maximize independent function in all activities of life
- May supervise support personnel and students and provide training.
Occupational therapists may specialize in working with specific populations such as children or adults, or persons with distinct problems such as dementia, traumatic brain injury and chronic pain, or provide special interventions such as return-to-work programs.
Employment requirements
- A university degree in occupational therapy including supervised fieldwork is required.
- Completion of a national or provincial certification examination is required.
- Licensure with a regulatory body is required in all provinces and territories.
- Membership in the national association, Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists, is required in some provinces.
- Occupational therapists may obtain expertise in a particular area through additional training or experience.
Additional information
- Occupational therapists may progress to management or administrative positions through further training and experience.
31204 - Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment
Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment include specialized therapists who use techniques such as athletic or recreational therapy to aid in the treatment of mental and physical disabilities or injuries. They are employed by establishments such as hospitals, rehabilitation centres, extended health care facilities, clinics, recreational centres, nursing homes, industry, educational institutions and sports organizations, or they may work in private practice.
Illustrative example(s)
- athletic therapist
- certified athletic therapist (CAT)
- certified kinesiologist
- exercise physiologist
- human kineticist
- kinesiologist
- recreational therapist
Exclusion(s)
- Kinesitherapist (See 32109 Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment)
- Occupational therapists (See 31203 Occupational therapists)
- Physiotherapists (See 31202 Physiotherapists)
- Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers (See 41406 Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers)
- Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies (See 41301 Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies)
Main duties
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
- Assess patients and review reports from physicians, physiotherapists, psychiatrists, counsellors, teachers and other professionals to determine patients' current and potential functioning level
- Prepare individualized and group treatment plans either independently or through a multidisciplinary team approach, based on health concerns and on recommendations from physicians or other health professionals
- Design specialized therapy programs to maintain, rehabilitate or enhance movement, musculoskeletal functioning and performance in sports, work and recreation
- Implement treatment plans by carrying out specialized therapy sessions employing approaches and techniques such as recreational, sports or other movement therapy
- Observe, record observations and analyze patients during treatment sessions, write progress reports on patient outcomes and consult with other health professionals to evaluate treatment plans
- May provide education to clients regarding health promotion and injury prevention, management and treatment
- May conduct research in respective field of specialization.
Employment requirements
- Kinesiologists require a four-year bachelor's degree in kinesiology, physical education or human kinetics.
- Certification for kinesiologists is available through the Canadian Kinesiology Alliance.
- Registration with a regulatory body is required for kinesiologists in Ontario.
- Athletic therapists require a bachelor's degree in sport therapy or a degree in health sciences with a specialization in sports injury management.
- Recreational therapists usually require a bachelor's degree in recreation with a specialization in therapeutic recreation.
- Supervised practical training is usually required for occupations in this unit group.
- Certification or membership with the appropriate national professional association or provincial counterpart may be required.
Additional information
- There is no mobility between the different occupations in this unit group.
31209 - Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating
Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating, who are not elsewhere classified, diagnose and treat the diseases and injuries of patients. This unit group includes doctors of podiatric medicine, naturopathic medicine and osteopathic medicine, and also includes chiropodists and podiatrists. They work in private practices, clinics and hospitals.
Illustrative example(s)
- chiropodist
- doctor of naturopathic medicine
- doctor of osteopathic medicine
- doctor of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.)
- foot specialist
- naturopathic doctor (ND)
- osteopathic physician
- podiatrist
Exclusion(s)
- Chiropractors (See 31201 Chiropractors)
- General practitioners and family physicians (See 31102 General practitioners and family physicians)
- Orthoptist (See 31303 Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals)
- Osteopathic manual practitioner (See 32209 Other practitioners of natural healing)
- Osteopathic manual therapist (See 32209 Other practitioners of natural healing)
- Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine (See 31100 Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine)
- Specialists in surgery (See 31101 Specialists in surgery)
Main duties
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Doctors of podiatric medicine
- Diagnose diseases, deformities and injuries of the human foot and communicate diagnoses to patients
- Treat patients using braces, casts, shields, orthotic devices, physical therapy, or prescribed medications
- May also perform surgery on the bones of the forefoot and the subcutaneous soft tissues of the foot.
Chiropodists and diploma or first-degree trained podiatrists
- Diagnose diseases, deformities and injuries of the human foot
- Treat patients using braces, casts, shields, orthotic devices, physical therapy and subcutaneous soft-tissue foot surgery.
Doctors of naturopathic medicine
- Diagnose patients' diseases and disorders
- Employ natural methods of healing such as acupuncture and acupressure, spinal manipulation, reflexology, hydrotherapy, herbal medicines, biochemical therapy, clinical nutrition, homeopathy and counselling in their treatment.
Doctors of osteopathic medicine
- Diagnose disorders and injuries of the musculoskeletal, circulatory and nervous systems
- Treat patients with manipulative therapy, medications or surgery.
Employment requirements
Doctors of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.)
- A four-year doctoral degree program in podiatric medicine available in the United States and in Quebec, normally following completion of a bachelor's degree program, is required.
- A medical residency is required in Alberta and British Columbia.
- A doctor of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.) degree is required to practice podiatry in Quebec, Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia.
Chiropodists and podiatrists
- An advanced three-year diploma program in chiropody (DCh) obtained in Canada
or
a first-degree program in podiatric medicine (D.Pod.M.) obtained abroad (United Kingdom) is usually required. - A licence is required in New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia.
Doctors of naturopathic medicine
- A university degree in pre-medical science is required.
- Completion of a university program in naturopathic medicine, obtained abroad
or
a four-year program in naturopathic medicine from a private institute is required. - A licence is required in Nova Scotia, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia.
Doctors of osteopathic medicine
- A bachelor's degree is required for admission to a doctor of osteopathic medicine program.
- A four-year program in osteopathic medicine leading to a doctor of osteopathy degree
and
a minimum three-year medical residency are required. These qualifications are obtained in the United States. - Completion of certifying examinations of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
and
licensing by the provincial or territorial licensing authority are required.
Additional information
- Chiropodist and podiatrist titles are used interchangeably, depending on the province or territory. The use of the podiatrist job title does not necessarily refer to doctors of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.).
- Doctors of osteopathic medicine may obtain a licence as general practitioners.
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