To become a low vision therapist, you must complete four steps: complete post-secondary education, receive low-vision training, gain field experience, and complete the certification process. A low vision therapist is a health professional who teaches people with low vision how to use technology and techniques to help them. Low vision therapists play a critical role in the medical support team that allows people with disabilities to remain self-sufficient and fully functional members of society.
Low vision therapists work closely with clients to assess their current level of independence, limitations imposed other illnesses or diseases, and available support systems. They teach people how to use devices like high magnification glasses, telescopes, and closed circuit television. Should the level of vision deteriorate even further, additional support is available in the form of blind devices such as Braille or screen reader software.
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is required to work as a low vision therapist. This degree can be in any field, but a specialization in low vision therapy is preferred. The degree should ideally be earned at a school that offers the low vision therapy courses that the certification agency requires. To become a low vision therapist, candidates with a bachelor’s degree in another field must take a minor in low vision therapy from an accredited school. The issuing school must provide a fully accredited program, which ensures that the course quality, academic policies, and administrative practices are all up to par.
There are cooperative job sessions, intern roles, and volunteer positions available during the low vision specialization portion of the degree. To work as a low vision therapist, you’ll need this experience. Before you can take the certification exam, you must have a total of 350 hours of clinical work experience. When applying for a job as a low vision therapist, you must have this certification.
In a hospital, rehabilitation center, social services agency, or home support services firm, you can gain practical experience. It’s worth noting that all of the hours must be spent under the direct supervision of a medical doctor or an optometrist. Ensure that the supervisor writes a complete evaluation report at the end of the work placement, as this is an important part of the certification process.
The Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) issues and administers the written exam for low vision therapists. These tests must be scheduled ahead of time. Study classes and other groups are frequently organized schools that offer low vision training programs to aid in exam preparation.