Occupational therapy assistants (OTA) provide occupational therapy and client related services under the direction and supervision of an Occupational Therapist (OT) or Physician. These services can include but are not limited to:
- contributing to evaluations by gathering data, reporting observations and conducting assessments;
- assisting the supervising OT or Physician in making determinations on treatment plans;
- carrying out activites and/or treatment programs developed by the supervising OT or Physician;
- recognizing and suspending any treatment intervention that appears harmful and alerting supervisor.
Salary and Projected Growth
OTA salary range: $51,984-$78,015
Projected growth: faster than average
Where Could I Work?
Hospitals and nursing homes
Rehabilitation facilities
Schools
Home care agencies
Your Interests and Abilities
Health-related sciences
Helping people affected by injury or disability
Mental and behavioral health
Professional Skills
Concern for others
Dependability
Patience
Communication
Education
OTA: Associate degree in a Department-registered OTA licensure program, an OTA program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), or equivalent.
Examination
Examination of the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT)
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
Tip: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to an occupational therapist or therapy assistant about what they do and how they got started!
