Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) work under the supervision of occupational therapists to help patients experience more independent and fulfilling lives. In this role, you’ll assist and guide people in completing therapeutic activities and using assistive technology that can simplify daily living and work-related tasks. Through one-on-one or group sessions, you’ll help them to recover from or adapt to physical or cognitive changes and limitations.
As an OTA, you may work with individuals of all ages with a variety of physical, psychological, or developmental conditions, depending on the specialization and career path you choose to pursue. OTAs may work in hospitals, clinics, schools, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and home health agencies. In every specialty, OTAs work closely with occupational therapists to develop and implement treatment plans that meet the individual needs and desires of their clients. As an OTA, you may also collaborate with physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care to your patients.
5 Common OTA Specializations
1. Pediatrics
OTAs who specialize in pediatrics may help children develop and improve fine motor skills (which involve small movements like grasping or drawing) as well as gross motor skills (think activities like sitting, walking, or running). You may also help them improve their social and cognitive skills. OTAs in this specialty commonly work with children who have developmental disorders, such as autism, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome. To engage pediatric patients and help them achieve their therapy goals, OTAs may use play and other fun activities. They may also work with parents, teachers, and other caregivers to provide education and support.
2. Geriatrics
OTAs in geriatrics work with the elderly population to help them maintain their autonomy and quality of life as they age. These OTAs may assist patients with activities of daily living like bathing, dressing, and grooming, as well as help address mobility and safety concerns. OTAs may also work with seniors who have dementia or other cognitive impairments to implement strategies to improve their memory, communication, and overall day-to-day function.
3. Mental health
OTAs in this specialty help individuals with mental health conditions to improve their daily functioning and quality of life. They may work with patients who have depression, anxiety, substance abuse disorders, or other conditions to help them develop coping skills, manage their behavior and emotions, and engage in meaningful activities. OTAs in the mental health field can also work with people who have experienced trauma to help them process and manage their symptoms.
4. Rehabilitation
OTAs working in rehabilitation centers help those who are recovering from injuries or illnesses like stroke, traumatic brain injury, or spinal cord injury. These OTAs assist patients with activities of daily living, mobility, and therapeutic exercises. They also help individuals develop adaptive techniques and use assistive devices to increase their independence.
5. Home health
OTAs can visit patients in their homes, helping them with daily living tasks and making recommendations for improving their environment for safety, accessibility, and independence. OTAs in home health may help individuals with bathing, cooking, grooming, and more, as well as educate patients on conserving their energy and safely completing daily activities.
Interested in pursuing a career as an occupational therapy assistant?
Becoming an OTA requires completing an associate degree program and then pursuing state licensure or certification*. To find out how the OTA programs at South University combine classroom instruction with hands-on learning experiences to prepare you to pursue a healthcare career**, request information today.
* It is up to each student to review the national and state licensure requirements for licensure, as well as the eligibility criteria to sit for licensure exams. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. Outside agencies control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing exams and are subject to change without notice to South University.
**South University does not guarantee students will pass the required licensure or placement.
