What is an Occupational Therapist Assistant Job?
An occupational therapist assistant job is a healthcare profession that supports occupational therapists in providing patients with rehabilitative services. The role of an occupational therapist assistant is to work with patients who have physical, mental, or emotional disabilities to help them overcome their limitations and perform everyday activities.
What Usually Do in This Position?
Occupational therapist assistants work under the supervision of occupational therapists to implement treatment plans that are designed to help patients improve their motor, cognitive, and sensory skills. They work with patients of all ages and backgrounds to help them regain their independence and improve the quality of their lives. Some of the tasks that occupational therapist assistants perform include:
- Helping patients with exercises that improve their motor skills
- Assisting with activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing, and eating
- Monitoring patient progress and adjusting treatment plans as necessary
- Educating patients and their families on how to use adaptive equipment
- Documenting patient progress and communicating with other healthcare professionals
Top 5 Skills for Position
To be successful as an occupational therapist assistant, there are several skills that are essential. Here are the top five skills that you need to have:
- Communication Skills: Occupational therapist assistants need to be able to communicate effectively with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.
- Interpersonal Skills: You need to be able to build strong relationships with patients to help them feel comfortable and motivated during therapy sessions.
- Attention to Detail: You need to be able to pay attention to small details to ensure that patients are performing exercises correctly and making progress.
- Physical Stamina: Occupational therapist assistants need to have the physical stamina to perform tasks such as assisting patients with transfers and lifting heavy equipment.
- Creativity: You need to be able to think creatively to develop treatment plans that are tailored to the unique needs of each patient.
How to Become This Type of Specialist
To become an occupational therapist assistant, you need to complete an accredited occupational therapy assistant program and pass a certification exam. These programs typically take two years to complete and include coursework in anatomy, physiology, psychology, and occupational therapy theory and practice. After completing your program, you will need to pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to become certified and eligible to work as an occupational therapist assistant.
Average Salary
The average salary for occupational therapist assistants in the United States is $60,950 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, salaries can vary depending on your location, experience, and the industry you work in.
Roles and Types
Occupational therapist assistants can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and outpatient clinics. Some of the roles that occupational therapist assistants can take on include:
- Pediatric Occupational Therapy Assistant: These assistants work with children to help them develop their motor, cognitive, and sensory skills.
- Geriatric Occupational Therapy Assistant: These assistants work with elderly patients to help them maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.
- Mental Health Occupational Therapy Assistant: These assistants work with patients who have mental health conditions to help them develop coping skills and improve their daily functioning.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top five states with the highest employment levels for occupational therapist assistants are:
- Texas
- Ohio
- Florida
- New York
- Pennsylvania
What are the Typical Tools?
Occupational therapist assistants use a variety of tools and equipment to help patients improve their motor, cognitive, and sensory skills. Some of the typical tools that occupational therapist assistants use include:
- Adaptive Equipment: This can include items like splints, braces, and specialized tools to help patients perform daily activities.
- Exercise Equipment: This can include items like resistance bands, weights, and balance balls to help patients improve their strength and balance.
- Sensory Equipment: This can include items like textured balls, vibration tools, and weighted blankets to help patients improve their sensory processing.
In Conclusion
Occupational therapist assistant jobs are a rewarding career choice for those who want to help others improve their lives. By completing an accredited occupational therapy assistant program and passing the certification exam, you can enter this growing field and make a real difference in the lives of your patients. With a strong set of skills, physical stamina, and creativity, you can build a successful career as an occupational therapist assistant.