Occupational Therapist (OT) & OTA Career Guide (2024)

Occupational Therapy is a branch of rehabilitative medicine that uses interventions to help patients with a variety of physical and cognitive impairments. It focuses on developing and maintaining the skills needed for daily activities at home, work, and school, leading to a more independent life.

Occupational therapists (OTs) and their assistants (OTAs) work collaboratively in various settings. While OTs are primarily responsible for assessing patients and developing treatment plans, OTAs provide direct therapy under the supervision of OTs. They may assist in implementing therapeutic activities, teaching patients to use equipment such as wheelchairs, leg braces, or eating aids, and supporting daily tasks such as dressing and eating.

Both OTs and OTAs work with patients in mental health settings, helping those with developmental or mental disabilities. OTAs support therapists in guiding these individuals in tasks like using public transportation or managing time and budgets.

In school settings, OTAs often assist OTs in helping students with developmental or physical disabilities to achieve their potential. Their role is crucial in facilitating the practical aspects of therapy sessions and follow-ups.

The opportunities and job outlook for both occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistants are growing each year.

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Occupational therapy is a hands-on healthcare career that assists patients with disabilities, both cognitive and physical, in developing and maintaining the skills they need for day-to-day activities. OTs and OTAs work together in teaching new ways of performing activities of daily living such as eating, personal hygiene, or creating routines that promote independence.

A day in the life of an occupational therapy practitioner can vary depending on the setting and patient needs. Common responsibilities include:

• Reviewing patients’ medical histories and helping in planning rehabilitation goals.
• Helping patients perform daily tasks such as eating and dressing.
• Demonstrating the use of specialized equipment and assisting in patient exercises.
• Making recommendations about changes that would benefit a patient’s living and work environments.
• Assessing and recording patients' progress.
• Educating families and caregivers about how to accommodate and help patients.

For OTs:

• Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant area.
• Earn a Master's or Doctoral Degree in Occupational Therapy.
• Pass the National Board of Certification of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to practice in the United States.

For OTAs:

• Complete an associate degree in occupational therapy assistance.
• Pass the NBCOT exam for assistants.

Once you become certified as an Occupational Therapist or OT assistant, you may find yourself wanting to grow and expand, and the best way to do this is through specializing in one area. There are many different areas in which you could become specifically certified and trained.

Here are just a few:

• Aquatic therapy
• Brain Injuries
• Autism
• Gerontology
• Hand Therapy
• Pediatrics

Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants follow different educational paths but both play vital roles in patient care.

‍Occupational Therapists:

Degree Requirements: A master's degree in occupational therapy from an accredited program is typically required. This involves first obtaining a bachelor's degree, preferably in a related field such as biology, psychology, or health science. The master's program, lasting two to three years, encompasses extensive coursework and fieldwork.

‍Licensure: Graduates must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to earn the OTR (Occupational Therapist, Registered) credential. They must also become licensed in the states where they wish to practice. Check out our helpful state-by-state guide to OT Licensure for more information.

‍Experience and Additional Certifications: Gaining work experience is a key step for those seeking further specialization in occupational therapy. Occupational therapists can opt for additional certifications in areas like pediatric occupational therapy, physical rehabilitation, mental health, school systems, and gerontology. These certifications, offered by organizations like the Board for Certification of Pediatric Occupational Therapists (BCPOT) and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), often require a combination of work experience, continuing education, and additional examinations.

‍Occupational Therapy Assistants:

Degree Requirements: Occupational therapy assistants typically need an associate degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program. These programs include both academic instruction and hands-on experience.

‍Licensure: After completing their education, OTAs must pass the NBCOT exam for assistants to become certified. Similar to OTs, OTAs must obtain licensure in the states where they intend to work.

‍Career Advancement: OTAs can enhance their careers by gaining experience, pursuing additional coursework, and obtaining specialized certifications. Certifications for OTAs might focus on specific areas of therapy or advanced therapeutic techniques.

Both occupational therapists and their assistants are required to maintain their credentials through ongoing professional development and adherence to professional standards. This ensures they stay current with the latest practices and advancements in the field of occupational therapy.

American Occupational Therapy Organization
‍The American Occupational Therapy Foundation
‍World Federation of Occupational Therapy (WFOT)
‍Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity (COTAD)