Assist occupational therapists in providing occupational therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, direct activity programs, and document the progress of treatments. Generally requires formal training.
SOC: 31-2011.00
Common Job Titles
Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)
Licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant (LOTA)
Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of therapeutic exercise techniques and adaptive equipment use when implementing occupational therapy interventions under therapist supervision.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate patient progress toward functional goals by monitoring treatment responses and documenting outcomes in clinical records.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate patient-centered care principles with therapeutic protocols when addressing diverse patient populations across clinical settings.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for patient safety and compliance with regulatory requirements while maintaining professional boundaries in therapeutic relationships.
Proficient
KnowledgeConstruct creative therapeutic interventions using craft materials, adaptive tools, and activity-based approaches to enhance patient engagement.
Proficient
Hands-onCoordinate patient transfers and mobility assistance using proper body mechanics, gait belts, and hydraulic lifts to ensure patient and staff safety.
Proficient
KnowledgeOrganize daily treatment schedules and documentation requirements using electronic health records and caseload management software to maintain accurate patient records.
Proficient
MindsetEngage patients in therapeutic activities while demonstrating empathy and building rapport to support functional improvement.
Developing
KnowledgeApply therapeutic activity programs based on treatment plans developed by occupational therapists, adapting to patient needs.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret treatment protocols and safety procedures to patients and caregivers, ensuring understanding of home exercise programs.
Developing
Hands-onOperate adaptive devices and therapeutic equipment including goniometers, dynamometers, and continuous passive motion equipment during treatment sessions.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze patient functional limitations and environmental barriers collaborating with occupational therapists to optimize treatment effectiveness.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Occupational Therapy Assistants (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
47,910
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $49,070. 25th percentile: U.S. $59,950. 50th percentile: U.S. $68,340. 75th percentile: U.S. $77,340. 90th percentile: U.S. $86,930. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$49,070
10% of workers earn the following or more
$86,930
Workers on average earn
$68,540
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service4.7/5
Psychology4.3/5
Education and Training3.9/5
English Language3.7/5
Therapy and Counseling3.7/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
