Occupational Therapy Assistant

Overview

Occupational Therapy provides specialized treatment in learning skills to enable clients to lead independent, productive and satisfying lives. Specialized assistance in learning skills enables clients to carry out day-to-day activities that are important to them despite impairments, activity limitations, or participation restrictions.

Occupational therapy assistants work under the supervision of a registered occupational therapist, carrying out the treatment plan designed by the therapist for the individual client. They may also be employed as activity coordinators.

Certification
Graduates of this program are eligible to take the national certification examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy and become Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs).

Qualities Needed
Aptitudes and interests that may be helpful include an interest in health care, a desire to help people and make a difference in their lives, compassion, sensitivity, problem-solving and communication skills, and the ability to follow instructions.

The OTA Program
The OTA program is a two-year curriculum which combines instruction in basic therapeutic methods and techniques with supervised fieldwork/clinical practice at affiliated rehabilitation facilities. Some prerequisite courses, including human anatomy and physiology, must be completed prior to entering the program.