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Occupational Therapy Assistant
Occupational therapy assistants work under the supervision of occupational therapists and help in the planning and implementation of rehabilitation programs. The occupational therapist teaches self-care and creative and work-related skills. They may be involved in the making of such items as simple splints and adaptive equipment. Although requiring supervision in carrying out remedial programs, the occupational therapy assistant can work independently when conducting a maintenance therapy program.
| Some of the responsibilities include: |
| • | Assessment and evaluation of patient's progress |
| • | Instruction of self-care skills, work-related skills, and recreational and social activities |
| • | Ordering supplies and helping maintain tools, equipment and records |
An occupational therapy assistant might spend a day teaching an arthritic patient to do household chores or helping someone recovering from mental illness to plan for a job, living arrangements and recreational activity.
Most occupational therapy assistants work in hospitals while others may work in schools for handicapped children and the mentally retarded, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes and community health centers.
Job Outlook
Good. At the present time, there are not enough occupational therapy assistants to meet the demand.
Educational Requirements
Students must complete an educational program for occupational therapy assistants offered by community colleges, junior colleges and vocational/technical schools. Most programs lead to an associate degree. Courses include: human growth and development, understanding the functioning of the human body, and occupational therapy processes and their purpose.
Students will be eligible to take the national examination for required certification upon successful completion of the academic program.
Educational Programs
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