Occupational Therapy Assistant

A career as an occupational therapy assistant involves outstanding patient care and the assisting of occupational therapists. You will want to be familiar with physical exercises, human anatomy, and compassionate patient care practices. If you are someone who has an interest in helping others, enjoys physical activity, and finding solutions, a career as an OTA could be perfect for you.

Find OTA training programs near you today!

What Does an Occupational Therapy Assistant Do? 

As an occupational therapy assistant, you will help the occupational therapist you’re working with, ensuring patient care is running smoothly, and patient goals are being met. OTAs can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including medical clinics, hospitals, or nursing care facilities.

You can expect to spend the majority of your shift on your feet, assisting occupational therapists, setting up or sterilizing equipment, or providing therapy to patients.

You may assist those with special needs, people who have recently been involved in an accident, disabled people, and even youth. You generally will need a degree or certificate to be hired in the field.

Reasons to Become an Occupational Therapy Assistant

 There are many reasons to become an occupational therapy assistant, including but not limited to:

• Helping Others: Assisting OTs and sometimes performing patient exercises themselves, the support OTAs provide is key in a patient’s recovery.
• Job Security: The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that demand for OTAs by 2031 is expected to increase 25 percent, indicating that OTAs can expect stability. 
• Active Job: The work environment of OTAs is an active one, and no day will look the same. OTAs can enjoy a variety of responsibilities each day.
• Variety of Patients: People of all ages and walks of life will need occupational therapy. You will have the chance to interact with many different people. 

The list above contains just some of the many benefits of becoming an OTA. You will be very involved in patient care and treatment plans, and work closely with OTs and patients alike.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Outlook and Pay

According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, the expected job outlook for OTAs is favorable. By 2032, the BLS predicts that demand for OTAs will increase 25 percent. The BLS also reports that the 2023 average pay for OTAs was $68,170, with the top 10 percent earning $89,230. As you gain more experience, your earning potential will also increase.

Become an Occupational Therapy Assistant Today!

Occupational therapy assistants can look forward to an in-demand and extremely rewarding career path. If you are someone who enjoys working with healthcare professionals and patients, becoming an OTA could be the career path you’re looking for. You will play a crucial role in improving the physical conditions of your patients, and you will also be able to observe your patients’ progress as it occurs.

Find OTA training programs near you!