Did you know that millions of people receive occupational therapy each year to help them regain their health, independence, and quality of life through therapy, exercise, and treatment plans?¹

In addition to occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants help their patients regain the skills needed to function in their everyday lives. Here is more info on what an occupational therapy assistant is, how to become one, and where they can work.

What is an Occupational Therapy Assistant?

Occupational therapy assistants provide occupational therapy services to their patients under the direction of occupational therapists. Specifically, occupational therapy assistants execute the therapy exercises that are prescribed by occupational therapists. Additionally, occupational therapy assistants work with physical therapists, speech language pathologists, doctors, and nurses to help their patients receive the most appropriate care and treatment.¹

Specifically, occupational therapy assistants help their patients through:

• Assisting with a treatment plan
• Rehabilitation activities
• Dressing and grooming
• Observing and noting their progess²

How to Become an Occupational Therapy Assistant

In order to become an occupational therapy assistant, you need to have the appropriate coursework and accreditation. For example, you need to have an associate’s degree from an accredited college, which will include coursework such as anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology. In addition to classes, students will need to complete fieldwork in occupational therapy settings to gain experience.³

Occupational therapy assistants also need to pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, NBCOT, 4-hour-long exam. This exam tests the knowledge and core competencies of an occupational therapy assistant student and is required in order to earn their state license.⁴ Once an occupational therapy assistant student completes those requirements, they can apply for their license. It is important to note that some states also require students to pass a state exam.⁵

Where Can an Occupational Therapy Assistant Work?

Occupational therapy assistants can work in a variety of settings, such as:

• Hospitals. They work with patients who have experienced injuries, strokes, and other life-altering events that have caused them to be unable to perform ADLs.
• Home Health Services. Provide treatment and care to their patients in their own homes.⁶
• Schools. Help children with sensory input and social skills so they can better learn and thrive at school.⁷
• Rehabilitation Centers. Treat people who may have had a car accident or other traumatic event, for example, and help them restore function to their bodies.
• Assisted Living Facilities. Help seniors maintain their independence through a variety of therapy exercises.⁸