Occupational Therapy Assistants

About the Role

Occupational Therapy Assistants help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working under the supervision of occupational therapists.

Other Common Titles

Physical Therapy Assistant
Rehabilitation Assistant
Therapeutic Support Staff
Occupational Therapy Aide
Rehabilitation Technician

Typical Tasks

Assist occupational therapists in preparing treatment plans and setting goals for patients.
Implement therapy sessions as directed by occupational therapists.
Monitor patient progress and report changes to the occupational therapist.
Educate patients and families on therapeutic activities and techniques.
Adapt tasks and tools to meet individual patient needs and abilities.
Document patient progress and update records as required.
Maintain therapeutic equipment and supplies.

Notable People

Aimee Mullins – An athlete and actress who has advocated for inclusivity in adaptive sports and rehabilitation, inspiring many in the fields of occupational therapy and physical rehabilitation.
Dr. Elizabeth – A prominent occupational therapist known for her contributions in the field of rehabilitation science and patient advocacy.

Recommended Resources

The Occupational Therapy Assistant's Handbook
A comprehensive guide for OTAs covering essential topics, techniques, and best practices in the field.
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
The leading professional organization for occupational therapy that provides resources, research, and support for OT practitioners.
The OT Podcast
A podcast discussing various topics relevant to occupational therapy, including tips for practice and interviews with field experts.