Occupational Therapy Assistants
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-generatedKey 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
| 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
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
FacebookMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft WordeClinicalWorks EHR software
Technology Skills
Accounting softwareBilling softwareBookkeeping softwareBrainTrain Captain's LogBrainTrain IVA+PlusBrainTrain SmartDriverClient caseload management softwareDatabase software
Tools & Equipment
Alternative computer keyboardsArm bracesAugmentative communication systemsAutomatic dishwashing systemsBack bracesBalance boardsBeading needlesBraille writers