Occupational Therapy Assistant Career & Jobs: Training, Salary & Certification Requirements

Although the human body is one of the strongest and most resilient machines the world has ever known, it is not infallible, and sometimes injury or illness makes it hard for people to go on living their lives like they did before the condition occurred. In some cases, it might be necessary for people to relearn how to perform simple tasks, like dressing themselves or driving a car. Although these tasks are not impossible for the patient, they have to be approached in a manner that makes them safe and comfortable. The professionals responsible for helping people relearn these skills of self-sufficiency are called occupational therapy assistants, and they are responsible for assessing patient needs and devising a plan for therapy with the guidance of a trained occupational therapist.

Salary Outlook

Average Annual Salary
$35,200
Salary Range
$28,700 - $39,300

Work Environment

Because occupational therapy assistants must be available to teach their patients how to cope in a variety of different settings, the work environment that they are faced with can change rapidly. It is most common for the occupational therapist to work at a hospital, rehabilitation center, physical therapy clinic, or nursing home. In some cases, the occupational therapist assistants might even travel to the school or residence of a patient they are working with.

High School Preparation

Individuals that are interested in pursuing a career as an occupational therapist assistant should focus their high school studies on health, science, and physical education. Supporting subjects for this line of work include biology, algebra, physical science, psychology, and sociology. It is also helpful to gain experience as a volunteer or intern for a health related company.

Requirements

Because the occupational therapy assistants work under the close supervision of occupational therapists to perform their job, they are only required to achieve an associate’s degree in their field. However, it is important to note that students should seek out a program at an accredited vocational school or community college that includes mandatory clinical experience in the curriculum. After completing all required coursework and clinical experience, students must pass the national certification exam in order to bear the credentials of a certified occupational therapists assistant (COTA).

Career Outlook

Unfortunately, a rapidly growing population of elderly persons and a growing number of people with disabilities means that the job market for qualified occupational therapists is expected to increase dramatically over the next few years. While advances in medicine and medical technology are allowing people to live longer, their bodies are still subject to injuries and illnesses that will require therapy. Experts predict that at least thirty percent more jobs will be available in this field within this decade.

Professional Organizations

American Occupational Therapy Association
P.O. Box 31220
Bethesda, MD 20824
Phone: (301) 652-2682
www.aota.org