Sign up for our newsletter

Join our newsletter to receive the latest updates and insights in online education. Get exclusive access to in-depth articles, expert advice, and special offers tailored for your educational journey.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Career Guide

Job Description:

Assist occupational therapists in providing occupational therapy treatments and procedures.
May, in accordance with state laws, assist in development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, direct activity programs, and document the progress of treatments.
Generally requires formal training.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary 2024

National Salary Data for Occupational Therapy Assistants

This bar graph shows the annual salary for Occupational Therapy Assistants.

U.S. Salary in 2024

Annual Median Salary: $64,250

Hourly Median Wage: $30.89

Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Projected Employment for Occupational Therapy Assistants

Job Growth Projections

This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Occupational Therapy Assistants.

Projected Job Openings for s by 2031

Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 25%

Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Typical Tasks for Occupational Therapy Assistants

Instruct, or assist in instructing, patients and families in home programs, basic living skills, or the care and use of adaptive equipment.
Maintain and promote a positive attitude toward clients and their treatment programs.
Report to supervisors, verbally or in writing, on patients' progress, attitudes, and behavior.

Technologies and Skills Used by Occupational Therapy Assistants

Accounting software

Billing software
Financial record software

Medical software

Laboratory information system LIS
eClinicalWorks EHR software

Presentation software

Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Talking to others

People and Technology Systems

Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Social

Looking for ways to help people
Understanding people's reactions

How To Become a Occupational Therapy Assistant

Becoming an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) requires a combination of education, certification, and hands-on experience. If you're interested in pursuing a career as an OTA, here are the steps you'll need to take:

Step 1: Obtain a High School Diploma or GED

Before you can enter an OTA program, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Focus on subjects such as biology, psychology, and health, which will be useful in your future coursework and career.

Step 2: Enroll in an Accredited OTA Program

Look for an accredited OTA program (by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE)) that offers the necessary coursework and hands-on training.
These programs usually award an associate degree after two years of full-time study.
Coursework often includes topics like medical terminology, anatomy, therapeutic techniques, and fieldwork.

Step 3: Complete Fieldwork Requirements

Accredited programs require students to complete supervised fieldwork to gain practical experience.
This typically involves working under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists or experienced OTAs.
Fieldwork helps you apply what you've learned in real-world settings and develop essential skills.

Step 4: Pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) Exam

After graduating from an accredited program, you must pass the NBCOT Certification Examination to become a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
Preparation for the exam includes reviewing study materials and possibly taking practice tests.
Visit the NBCOT website for exam details, study guides, and registration.

Step 5: Obtain State Licensure

Most states require OTAs to be licensed to practice.
Licensing requirements vary by state but generally include passing the NBCOT exam and submitting an application to the state's licensing board.
Some states may have additional requirements such as background checks or continuing education credits.

Step 6: Seek Employment

Look for job opportunities in various settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, nursing homes, or private practices.
Networking with professionals in the field during your studies and fieldwork can be beneficial in finding job openings.

Step 7: Pursue Continuing Education and Career Advancement

To maintain your NBCOT certification and state licensure, you'll need to complete continuing education units (CEUs).
Opportunities for advancement may include specializing in certain areas of practice or moving into roles with greater responsibility.
Some OTAs choose to further their education by pursuing a master's degree in occupational therapy to become a licensed occupational therapist.

Throughout your career as an OTA, staying up-to-date with the latest practices and technologies in the field will be essential. Engaging in professional development activities and being involved in professional organizations like the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) can help you stay informed and connected within the occupational therapy community.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Career Path FAQ's

What educational requirements are needed to become an Occupational Therapy Assistant?

To become an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA), you typically need to:

Complete an accredited OTA associate degree program, which usually takes about two years.
Pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification exam.
Obtain a state license to practice, as licensure requirements vary by state.

How long does it take to become an OTA?

The length of time to become an OTA can vary, but most accredited programs take approximately two years to complete as a full-time student. This timeframe includes both coursework and fieldwork requirements.

Can I advance my career as an OTA?

Yes, there are several ways to advance your career:

Specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, or physical rehabilitation.
Become a fieldwork educator or supervisor.
Pursue further education to become an Occupational Therapist (OT).

Are there continuing education requirements for OTAs?

Yes, most states require OTAs to complete continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain licensure. The amount and type of CEUs required can vary by state.
Staying current with CEUs is also necessary for maintaining NBCOT certification.

What is the job outlook for Occupational Therapy Assistants?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of OTAs is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increasing demand for occupational therapy services.

What are the typical work environments for OTAs?

OTAs work in a variety of settings, including:

Hospitals
Rehabilitation centers
Nursing homes
Schools
Private practices

Can OTAs specialize in certain areas of therapy?

Yes, OTAs can choose to specialize in areas such as:

Hand therapy
Pediatric occupational therapy
Gerontology
Mental health Specialization may require additional training and/or certification.

Is there a difference between an OTA and an OT aide?

Yes, there is a significant difference between an OTA and an OT aide. An OTA is a licensed professional who has completed an accredited educational program and passed a national certification exam. OT aides typically have on-the-job training and do not perform therapy services but rather assist with clerical tasks and setting up equipment.

How often do I need to renew my OTA license?

The frequency of license renewal for OTAs varies by state, but it is commonly required every one to two years. Check with your state's licensing board for specific renewal requirements.

What is the average salary for an Occupational Therapy Assistant?

Salaries for OTAs can vary based on factors like location, experience, and workplace setting. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for occupational therapy assistants was $62,940 as of May 2021. Keep in mind that this figure can change over time, so it's important to research current salary trends.

Can I work part-time as an OTA?

Yes, part-time positions are available for OTAs. Some may choose part-time work to accommodate family responsibilities, further education, or personal preferences.

Remember that each state may have different regulations and requirements for OTAs, so it's essential to check with your state's licensing board for the most accurate and up-to-date information.