If you’re looking into Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) school, you’re starting down a meaningful and lucrative career pat. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a in OTA job opportunities over the next decade, meaning that an OTA career will be stable and offer a great salary right out of school.

Before you start your journey, it’s important to choose a school that will be a good fit for you and set you up for long-term success. Here’s how to choose the best OTA school for you.

What is OTA school?

OTA school is how you become an OTA. A good OTA program will include courses and lectures, hands-on learning, fieldwork, and exam prep. All these learning formats work together to prepare you to be a competent, successful OTA.

9 Considerations for Choosing an OTA School

1. Accredited OTA Programs

It’s important to attend an accredited OTA program. Accreditation means that a respected outside organization has thoroughly vetted a school or program and found that its curriculum, faculty, programs, and services are up to standards. The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education () is an organization that reviews OT schools and programs to make sure that they’re preparing students for OT careers. There are also accredited online OTA programs, so you can be sure of a quality OT education both in person and remotely.

51cg’s OTA program is ACOTE accredited, and we have institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). At the time of this publication, 51cg is one of only six schools approved to offer an OTA program through distance education, enabling students from select states to prepare for NBCOT licensure in just 20 months.

2. OTA Program Length

OTA school generally takes two years to complete but some programs are faster, and some let you go at your own pace. At Joyce, you can finish your OTA program and qualify as an OTA in just 20 months.

Compare OTA program lengths and choose a school that works with your lifestyle and plans. Some students want to stay in school for longer and take their time, and some prefer to move quickly through OT school and hit the ground running with a career. Either way, be clear on your own plans and learning style to choose an OTA program that you’ll thrive in. Students looking for a fast-track program thrive at Joyce.

3. OTA School Cost

When you’re considering OTA school cost, remember to factor in:

• Tuition
• Books and materials
• Fees
• Cost of living and/or relocation
• Licensure and certification costs
• Financial aid

According to , the average cost of OTA school (including tuition and fees) as of 2023 is $38,545, which means that the average cost of OTA school per semester is around $9,600. Investing in your future with OTA schooling can feel intimidating, but it comes with a great return. The BLS that in 2022, the median annual wage for OTAs is $64,250, with top earners making an average of $85,580 per year.

You can also defray the cost with financial aid. Most OTA schools will have a financial aid office and resources to help you pay for school.

As of 2023, 51cg’s OTA program costs $44,175. Our financial aid office is here to help you find scholarships, grants, loans, work study opportunities, and (if applicable) veterans benefits to help you pay for your OTA training.

4. OTA School Requirements

Many OTA schools have prerequisites, which can include physiology labs, general education classes, and medical terminology courses. Make sure you check the OTA school requirements for every program you consider.

Joyce’s OTA program has no college-level prerequisites. To enroll, students must have proof of high school graduation or its equivalent, pass a college readiness exam, and meet our general admissions requirements.

5. OTA Program Format

In the digital age you have access to different types of OTA schools, including traditional in-person classes and online OTA programs. Keep in mind that this career requires hands-on learning, so OTA online programs generally include in-person aspects like labs, clinical experiences, and fieldwork.

At 51cg, you can do accredited OTA classes online and you don’t even need to live near our Draper, Utah campus. Distance learners from several states take advantage of our flexible, convenient OTA program. Joyce’s didactic courses are held mostly online, and out of state students travel to our campus for short periods to participate in labs. You can read more about our residency requirements and resources for distance learners here.

6. NBCOT Test Preparation

Your OTA program should set you up for success when it comes time to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy () test to earn your OTA certification. Look for schools and programs with a high NBCOT pass rate and courses dedicated to test prep.

We’re proud of Joyce’s 98% NBCOT pass rate. Your final semester in Joyce’s OTA program will include a dedicated review course, which is a big way that we support students in successfully becoming certified OTAs.

7. OTA Program Curriculum

Accredited OTA programs will all cover the same OT basics, but the specific curricula will differ. Some will include general education courses, and some may have varying emphases, like pediatric or geriatric care. If you have a specialty in mind or know where you want to work, make sure to apply to OTA schools that cover your area of interest.

Joyce has a comprehensive OTA curriculum that covers the lifespan from pediatrics through adult and geriatric populations. You’ll learn both knowledge and hands-on skills from didactic courses, labs, simulations, and fieldwork. Take a closer look at Joyce’s OTA curriculum here.

OTA school is designed to be challenging. Look for schools with supportive faculty and student resources to help you succeed. Joyce’s student portal gives insight into how your OTA student experience would be here. It has links to student services like IT support, tutoring programs, and additional resources for student success.

8. Faculty Experience

Professors and faculty will shape much of your day-to-day experience at OTA school. Connecting with a faculty mentor can give you someone to turn to during school’s challenges and later, when you’re facing questions during your OTA career.

Look into each prospective school’s faculty. You’ll want to learn from highly-qualified professionals with lots of teaching experience. At Joyce, we hire experienced, doctorate-prepared faculty.

9. Job Placement Support

The result of any good OT school is job placement as an OTA. Your education and licensure will qualify you for work and are important parts of this process, but your OTA program should also support you in finding a good job.

When you’re researching OTA programs, look for schools with career services offices. These will support your long-term success with jobs that are a great fit for you.

All 51cg students and graduates can access our career services for support. Career services tracks student job placement by program, showing that 76.9% of OTA graduates were employed.

°Őłó±đ°ù±đ’s a lot to consider when you’re choosing the right OT school. Remember, you are entering this field as an OTA to make a difference in your clients’ everyday lives. Take the next step in your OTA education by exploring a variety of programs to find the one that best fits your schedule and cultivates career opportunities.

Explore All Healthcare Education Options at 51cg

From our renowned OTA program to our nursing pathways—whether you’re beginning your healthcare journey with our ASN program, pursuing a 3 year BSN degree or accelerated BSN program, advancing through our RN to BSN program, or reaching higher with an MSN degree, discover which healthcare pathway aligns with your career goals by exploring our nursing programs.

An Occupational Therapy Assistant’s Daily Schedule

Before diving into any career, it’s important to know what a typical day on the job entails. Doing this gives insight into what you might encounter, and the same goes for a career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA). At 51cg, our OTA associate’s program teaches what daily life as an OTA looks like, firsthand, through classroom and fieldwork opportunities.

What do occupational therapy assistants do?

Your OTA daily routine will usually include collaborating with an Occupational Therapist (OT), prep work, meeting with clients, and advising their family members. No two days are identical as an OTA. Before learning the ropes in person, here’s a typical OTA schedule.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Schedule

6:00 a.m. | Wake Up

Fans of a regular sleep schedule and consistent morning routine, rejoice! A day in the life of an OTA begins in the morning with the majority of the working world. Unlike most healthcare careers, where swing shifts and graveyard hours make nocturnal living unavoidable, the OT industry takes place during regular business hours.

8:00 a.m. | Check In and Get Assignments

OTAs work in a variety of settings, from hospitals to schools to homes and beyond. However, a large majority of OTAs work in specialized OT outpatient clinics, under the supervision of one or more OTs.

When you arrive at work, you’ll typically check in with an OT, review the patients you’ll see that day, and receive a list of assignments. OTA daily tasks can include:

• Training patients on exercises.
• Teaching patients to use adaptive equipment.
• Teaching patients mindfulness and stress management techniques.
• Modifying a patient’s space to better suit their needs.
• Tracking patient progress and reporting it to a supervising OT.
• Maintaining treatment areas and equipment.
• Planning and executing community activities and outings for patients.
• Collaborating with speech therapists, art therapists, case management or other providers.

8:15 a.m. | Prep for the Day

After checking in at work, you’ll typically have a few minutes to take care of administrative tasks like scheduling, answering emails, or preparing your clients’ activities.

9:15 a.m. | Work With Clients

It’s time to complete those daily tasks you were assigned when you got to work. Most of your OTA daily routine will be spent working with clients to strengthen skills that enable the activities of daily living (ADL). Successful OTAs individualize care for each client and prioritize their preferences when building a treatment plan.

As an OTA, you may also spend the morning at a client’s home, where they complete many of their ADLs. The opportunity to work in a client’s home is a unique gift of the OTA profession and builds meaningful relationships with clients. It’s also a common part of an OTA schedule.

For example, you may work with a client who’s learning to transfer themself in and out of their wheelchair to their bed, the toilet, the car, or the shower. Their home is the ideal place to practice these activities.

12:30 p.m. | Lunch

Midway through the day, you’ll have a lunch break. OTA work is rewarding, but it can be intense to work up close and personal with clients who are navigating huge challenges. Your lunch break can provide much-needed downtime or an opportunity to connect with your coworkers. Time to recharge helps you be fully present for the rest of the patients you’ll see.

With that being said, you may have to spend some lunch periods training, in meetings, or catching up on administrative tasks.

1:00 p.m. | Work With Clients and Their Families

In the afternoon of a day in your life as an OTA, you’ll work with more clients.

You’ll also write up their status and progress for their patient record. It’s important to keep clients and their families updated regarding their treatment, status, and progress so that even when they leave the clinic, they can keep practicing the techniques and exercises you’ve taught them. This is also a vital step for insurance to pay for their treatment sessions. Good communication skills make for great OTAs, helping clients continue progressing in the office and at home. In the therapy world, you’ll hear the phrase “If you didn’t document it, it didn’t happen.”

5:00 p.m. | Prepare for the Next Day

Just like most healthcare professionals, an OTA’s final daily tasks are recordkeeping and paperwork. You’ll examine the work you did with each patient, make notes for the following day, and make sure everything is squared away and ready to begin again tomorrow.

5:30 p.m. | Return Home

Many OTAs find that at the end of a day, they keep thinking about their clients. That’s because OT isn’t a job where you merely punch the clock, do your work, and punch out. As an OTA, you’ll make real connections with your patients, and these connections help them thrive.

Is an OTA Career Right for You?

Looking at an OTA schedule is one way to gauge your interest in this career. Another effective tool to decide whether becoming an OTA is right for you is volunteer work. Many clinics, schools, geriatric facilities, and OTA policy organizations have volunteer programs where you can learn if OT is a good fit and even find your preferred specialty.

Joyce’s OTA program can help you decide where you fit into this rewarding career. With supportive students and faculty, fieldwork opportunities, and a career services organization, Joyce is primed to set you up for success as an OTA.

FAQs 51cg Occupational Therapy Assistants’ Daily Routine

What is daily life like for an OTA?

As an OTA, you’ll check in with a supervising OT, work with clients, maintain equipment, keep records, and communicate with clients and their families.

In what employment setting do most OTAs work?

Most OTAs work in outpatient clinics, but there are ample job opportunities for OTAs. As an OTA, you could work in hospitals, schools, summer camps, client homes, geriatric facilities, and pediatric clinics.

Where do OTAs make the most money?

You can make a great salary as an OTA. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, the in the United States is $64,250.

Is OTA a low stress job?

Healthcare jobs can be intense. While OTAs often become emotionally invested in their patients, they don’t have to be on the front line of emergencies like first responders or critical care providers do. This makes OT less stressful than most jobs in the healthcare field.

Do OTAs have a good work/life balance?

OTAs enjoy regular working hours and rarely need to work swing or graveyard shifts, which helps with work/life balance. One barrier to good work/life balance for OTAs is the emotional attachment you can build with your clients, which makes it difficult to separate work from home life.

Are OTAs happy?

A career as an OTA can be physically and emotionally demanding work. However, seeing your patients achieve milestones in their recovery are just some of the reasons why OTAs love their job.

Becoming an OTA is a great career choice for people who want to make a difference every day. Because OTA schedules change a little bit every day, this field can give you a stable job that keeps you on your toes. Begin your OTA career in less than 2 years with 51cg’s OTA program.

To get started, schedule a meeting with admissions today!

Explore Your Healthcare Career Options at 51cg

From our renowned OTA program to our nursing pathways—whether you’re beginning your healthcare journey with our ASN program, pursuing a 3 year BSN degree or accelerated BSN program, advancing through our RN to BSN program, or reaching higher with an MSN degree, discover which healthcare pathway aligns with your career goals by exploring our nursing programs.

Occupational Therapy (OT) helps people of any age living with injuries and disabilities learn to perform daily activities. For children, daily activities mean learning and playing.

Pediatric Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) help children with a wide range of disabilities, injuries, and physical and cognitive needs play and learn. The skills built through pediatric OT set children up for lifelong growth and help build self-sufficiency.

If you enjoy children and are patient, compassionate, and creative, a pediatric OT career could help you make a lasting difference. At 51cg, our OTA program teaches childhood development and the specialized skills you’ll need in pediatric OT jobs.

What Do Pediatric Occupational Therapy Assistants Do?

Pediatric OTAs collaborate with other professionals to carry out treatment plans for injured and disabled children. OT for children supports learning and playing skills, and can include a wide variety of physical, cognitive, social, and creative exercises.

All of these exercises and strategies support children’s development and build skills for independence so they can better operate in a world that isn’t accommodating for them.

It’s never too early to support a child’s development. Pediatric OT is an early intervention that builds a foundation for long-term success with physical tasks, social situations, and other activities of daily living.

How do Pediatric OTAs Impact Children’s Lives?

Pediatric OTAs have a huge influence on children’s development. Through the help of pediatric OT, many children develop lifelong skills for self-care and independence, like hygiene, dressing themselves, cooking, and cleaning. Pediatric OTAs assist children in finding ways to succeed in education, helping them build effective communication and social skills.

Pediatric OTAs love seeing their work make a difference in a child’s life. Opportunities to contribute to a happier life draw many pediatric OTAs to the field. If you’re looking for an emotionally rewarding profession, you’re in the right place.

What Children Benefit from Pediatric OT?

Pediatric OT, like all OT, is always tailored to each individual’s needs. Children with the same diagnosis can have very diverse needs, and good pediatric OTAs will creatively build treatment plans. In 51cg’s OTA program, you’ll learn what a day in the life of an OTA looks like, gaining the tools to work and effectively communicate with these young patients. Here are some general ways that pediatric OT can serve a variety of children.

Children on the autism spectrum and with ADHD

Neurodiverse children have widely varied needs, and pediatric OT can support many of them. Pediatric OTAs help kids with autism spectrum disorder and ADHD:

• Manage sensory differences by using tools to help meet sensory needs
• Communicate effectively
• Navigate social situations
• Build emotional regulation skills

Children with Down syndrome

Pediatric OT can help children with Down syndrome:

• Learn age-appropriate, self-care activities like feeding and dressing themselves
• Communicate effectively with speech therapists
• Manage sensory differences and needs
• Develop fine and gross motor skills
• Build social skills

Children with cerebral palsy

Pediatric OT helps children with cerebral palsy:

• Improve joint and muscle coordination
• Develop motor skills
• Build social connections and play
• Manage sensory needs

Children with spinal cord injuries

Many children with spinal cord injuries have to relearn skills that came easily pre-injury. Pediatric OT gives these children and their families the tools to gain or regain independence.

Pediatric OTAs can help children with spinal cord injuries:

• Adapt to mobility aids like wheelchairs, including learning to transfer in and out of the chair
• Learn or relearn how to walk
• Strengthen parts of the body affected by spinal cord damage
• Build or rebuild balance
• Develop skills for independence
• Navigate new ways to play

Children with developmental delays or other disabilities

Children with a wide array of developmental delays or disabilities can benefit from pediatric OT. Pediatric OTAs mix and match treatments as appropriate, but may help children:

• Learn adaptive technology
• Practice educational skills like writing
• Hone motor skills
• Integrate in social situations
• Manage sensory needs
• Build age-appropriate self-care skills

How to Become a Pediatric Occupational Therapy Assistant

To become a pediatric OTA, you must:

1. Earn an OTA associate’s degree

2. Pass the NBCOT qualifying exam

3. Apply for and obtain state licensure

This associate-level education and training typically takes two years, but some fast-track programs can accelerate the process. At 51cg, you can become a certified OTA in as little as 20 months (just five semesters) of mostly online classes.

Joyce’s OTA training is comprehensive, so you’ll take specialized courses on OT for every life stage, as well as psychosocial, physical, and psychological approaches to OT. During your final semester at Joyce, you’ll complete fieldwork for hands-on learning and take an NBCOT review course, which prepares students to pass the qualifying exam and obtain OTA certification.

Once you’re certified, you can begin applying for pediatric OTA jobs. At 51cg, our faculty is available to help all students and alumni find great jobs.

What Skills & Techniques do Pediatric OTAs Use?

Being a great OTA for adults is one thing, but effectively treating children is a whole other game. Pediatric skills for OTAs can include:

• Sensory integration therapy
• Play-based therapy
• Animal-assisted therapy
• Art and music therapy
• Outdoor play and nature-based activities

Children of different ages benefit from different techniques. For example, early childhood OT with a toddler may use mostly play to build skills or strength. OTAs working with teens may still play but are likely to incorporate life and job skills.

Child-focused OT gives OTAs the opportunity to collaborate with other specialists, like art and music therapists and recreational therapists. These experiences make pediatric OT a varied and exciting field with lots of chances to keep learning.

How to Get Pediatric OTA Jobs?

At 51cg, we encourage our students to take advantage of networking opportunities through volunteer programs, fieldwork, and networking events. Our career services office can also connect you with pediatric OTA jobs.

Pediatric OT is a growing field with a great job outlook. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 23% growth projection for OTA jobs in the next decade. This far outstrips the average job outlook, which means that pediatric OTAs have great potential for career advancement.

As the pediatric OT field grows, more diverse pediatric OTA jobs are hitting the market. These pediatric OTAs can work in schools, clinics, hospitals, summer camps, homes, speech and language centers, and more. As the field advances, more opportunities will arise.

FAQs 51cg Pediatric OTAs

How is a pediatric OTA different from a pediatric OT?

Pediatric OTAs work alongside pediatric OTs. Pediatric OTAs report to pediatric OTs and support them in building treatment plans, performing therapeutic activities exercises, managing and maintaining equipment, communicating with families, tracking patient progress, and more.

What are common conditions that require pediatric OT?

Children with a diverse range of needs and abilities can benefit from pediatric OT. Pediatric OTAs frequently work with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, and other disabilities.

How much does a pediatric OTA make?

Factors like location, years of experience, and education impact your pay, but the average annual pediatric OTA salary is

Where do pediatric OTAs get paid the most?

According to , the highest-paying areas for pediatric OTAs are Washington DC, California, New Jersey, Alaska, and Massachusetts.

As a pediatric OTA, you could help build the foundation for many happy and successful lives. If you are interested in a fulfilling career as an OTA, start your journey at Joyce today.

Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physical Therapy (PT) are frequently confused, so let’s set the record straight. The difference between OT and PT is that OT focuses on improving a client’s ability to perform everyday activities while PT focuses on improving a patient’s ability to perform body movements and function. Here’s a breakdown of how they differ.

Occupational Therapy vs Physical Therapy

Both occupational therapy and physical therapy are important healing modalities that help patients live full lives. °Őłó±đ°ù±đ’s also plenty of overlap between the methods and skills used in PT and OT. The difference between occupational therapy and physical therapy is that OT focuses on lifestyle and skills and PT focuses on physiology.

PT is focused on patients’ physiology and helps them build physical strength, range of motion, and flexibility. Physical Therapists (PTs) help patients recover after injuries or operations through targeted practices like stretches, exercises, and hands-on treatments. PTs work closely with their assistants, Physical Therapist Assistant (PTAs), to restore lost function.

While OT also considers physical strength, range of motion, and flexibility, it’s more focused on lifestyle. Occupational Therapists (OTs) take a holistic approach that builds patient ability and makes reasonable modifications that helps a patient function. On top of physical exercises, OTs may help their patients adapt their home and work environments with equipment and aids. OTs and their assistants, Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs), love the opportunity to think creatively.

Whether a patient seeks OT vs PT depends on their individual needs and goals. For example, an injured or post-surgical patient who’s otherwise healthy might attend PT to regain strength and reduce pain. OT patients require help with both physical rehabilitation, skill development, and lifestyle changes in order to perform daily tasks. At 51cg, our OTA program teaches students how to assist OTs in all these areas.

Job Duties in OT vs PT

Daily life and job duties look a little different in OTs versus PTs, and the same goes for OTAs and PTAs. Here’s a breakdown of each job.

Occupational Therapist Job Duties

• Evaluate a client’s condition and treatment needs.
• Develop a client’s individualized treatment plan.
• Help clients perform daily tasks and practice self-care.
• Advise clients on adaptive equipment.
• Record and assess client progress.
• Evaluate a client’s home and/or workplace to identify potential improvements, then educate family members and employers on recommended adjustments.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Job Duties

• Collaborate with OTs to help clients develop and recover skills for activities of daily living.
• Implement treatment programs created by OTs (including activities, exercises, and training on adaptive equipment).
• Track client progress and report it to the OT.
• Guide family members, caregivers, and other healthcare providers on how to best support the client’s treatment program.
• Maintain treatment areas and set up therapy equipment.

Physical Therapist Job Duties

• Assess physical problems caused by injury or illness.
• Develop individualized treatment plans for patients.
• Utilizes exercises, stretching, hands-on therapy, and equipment to help increase mobility, ease pain, and facilitate improved patient health.
• Maintains records and tracks patient’s goals and progress.
• Creates wellness programs aimed at preventing injury.
• Educate patients about the recovery process.

Physical Therapy Assistant Job Duties

• Provide PT services under the direction and supervision of a PT.
• Implement treatment plans created with PTs, which include stretching, strength training, exercises, and equipment use.
• Track and report patient progress before, during, and after therapy.
• Maintain treatment areas and set up therapy equipment.

Education and Job Requirements for OT vs PT

PT and OT careers have similar educational requirements. While the required courses and focus varies, both require training, a qualification exam, and licensure. Here are the key steps to careers in OT and PT.

Occupational Therapist Education and Job Requirements

• Earn a master’s or doctorate degree in OT.
• Pass the NBCOT exam for OTs.
• Apply for and obtain state licensure.

Occupational Therapist Assistant Education and Job Requirements

• Earn an associate’s degree.
• Pass the NBCOT exam for OTAs.
• Apply for and obtain state licensure.

While most OTA associate degrees take two years to complete, you can study and qualify to be an OTAs in as few as 20 months at Joyce university. OTA programs are designed to be fast and flexible and will prepare you to pass the NBCOT and meet your state’s licensure requirements.

Physical Therapist Education and Job Requirements

• Earn a master’s degree.
• Pass the NPTE exam for PTs.
• Apply for and obtain state licensure.

Physical Therapist Assistant Education and Job Requirements

• Earn an associate’s degree.
• Pass the NPTE exam for PTAs.
• Apply for and obtain state licensure, which includes CPR and first aid training in some states.

Occupational Therapy vs Physical Therapy Salary

Both OT and PT are high-paying careers with great job outlooks. Many OTAs and PTAs are drawn to their fields by the high salary you can earn after a quick associate’s degree.

Occupational Therapist Salary

According to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an average salary of $93,180 annually. As of 2023, job outlook for OTs is also higher than the average, with a 12% growth projection.

Occupational Therapist Assistant Salary

If you’re looking for a stable job with lots of demand, an OTA career could hit the spot. The BLS a 23% growth projection for OTAs, with an average median salary of $64,250. This field is growing far faster than the average industry, making an OTA degree a great investment in your future.

Physical Therapist Salary

PTs earn an average annual pay of $97,720. The PT job outlook is , with a 15% growth projection.

Physical Therapist Assistant Salary

In 2022, BLS the median annual wage of an PTA is $62,770, with higher than average job prospects at a 19% growth projection.

Physical vs Occupational Therapy Specialties

OT and PT have different opportunities for specialization and advanced certification. Check out some options in each field.

Occupational Therapy Specialties

OTs can earn advanced certifications from the American Occupational Therapy Association (). To earn advanced certifications, OTs must be at least three years into their OT career and have lots of experience in their area, then take a certifying exam.

The current areas of certification are:

• Gerontology
• Pediatrics
• Physical Rehabilitation

Occupational Therapy Assistant Specialties

For OTAs and OTA students, the AOTA offers micro credentials and professional certificates. These are specialized training achievements (and they look great on your resume).

You can earn micro credentials in:

• First Response for Low Vision Rehabilitation
• Supporting Academic Achievement in School-Based Practice
• Supporting Social and Emotional Wellbeing in K-12
• Supporting Educational Transitions from K-12 to Adulthood
• Driving and Community Mobility
• Participation, Resilience, and Wellness
• Home Modifications and Falls Prevention
• Performing a Home Health Start of Care

Micro credentials are a step toward professional certificates for OTAs. You can earn professional certificates in school-based practice and home & community safety and driving.

Physical Therapy Specialties

PTs can earn an American Physical Therapy Association () specialist certification, which sets you apart in your field and signals your commitment to the profession.

APTA specialist certifications are available in:

• Geriatrics
• Wound Management
• Neurology
• Orthopedics
• Cardiovascular and Pulmonary
• Clinical Electrophysiology
• Pediatrics
• Sports
• Women’s Health
• Oncology

Physical Therapy Assistant Specialties:

PTAs can specialize through APTA’s .

Advanced proficiency program recognition is valid for ten years and available in the following areas:

• Acute Care
• Cardiovascular and Pulmonary
• Geriatrics
• Neurology
• Oncology
• Orthopedics
• Pediatrics
• Wound Management

Occupational Therapy vs Physical Therapy FAQ

Why choose OT over PT?

OT and PT represent different approaches to healing and rehabilitation. Both can work with all sorts of patients, but OT is more focused on daily living tasks and PT is more about motion and movement. If you’re trying to decide between careers in OT vs PT, try volunteering. PTA and OTA volunteer work can help you choose which path is right for you.

What do OTs do?

OTs work with individuals who were either born with a medical condition, acquired an injury, or people with health conditions or impairments to build the skills and abilities needed for daily life.

Where do OTs work?

OTs and OTAs work in hospitals, clinics, schools, homes, and more.

Is becoming an OT worth it?

Every career is worth it if it brings you meaning and does good in the world! If you’re referring to the financial costs and benefits of becoming an OT or OTA, the answer is also yes. 51cg’s OTA program costs approximately $44,000, and your annual salary could be around $60,000, making it a great ROI from the start.

Who should go into OT?

Anyone who wants to make a difference and work directly with people could succeed as an OTA.

What major is best for OT?

An OTA associate’s degree will prepare you to jump right in as an OTA. If you plan to pursue a master’s or doctorate degree in OT, bachelor’s degrees in sports medicine, kinesiology, biology, health science, or exercise science will prepare you to continue studying.

The main difference between OT and PT is that PTs focus on physiological healing and rehabilitation, whereas OTs focus on both physical rehabilitation and skill building for daily life. If you want to begin a career as an OTA, contact an admissions officer today.

Explore Your Healthcare Education Options at 51cg

From our renowned OTA program to our comprehensive nursing pathways—whether you’re beginning your healthcare journey with our ASN program, pursuing a traditional BSN degree or accelerated BSN program, advancing through our RN to BSN program, or reaching higher with an MSN degree, discover which nursing program aligns with your career goals by exploring our nursing school.

Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) careers have a great salary, excellent job outlook, and lots of growth opportunities. You’ll also go home every day knowing you made a difference in someone’s life, making this career emotionally rewarding. If you’re considering an OTA career, odds are that you’re a naturally caring person. Here are six qualities of an OTA that set them up for success.

1. Patience

Patience is a core value and important skill for OTAs. Everyone you work with as an OTA will struggle to complete activities of daily living. Your clients may find parts of therapy difficult, or they may be frustrated that they need help in the first place. It’s critical that you, the OTA, remember that they’re doing a hard thing and stay patient with their struggles.

Even on days when everyone comes into therapy in a good mood, your OTA daily routine may include some monotonous or challenging tasks. Staying patient with your work and clients will help you succeed as an OTA.

2. Compassion

In OT, compassion is key. Like we said above, your patients will experience daily challenges. Successful OTAs compassionately see everyone they work with as whole people, with both struggles and strengths.

Many OTAs work with children and seniors. Both pediatric and geriatric clients may struggle to communicate their needs or feel upset by the gap between what they want to accomplish and their current abilities. Compassionate OTAs connect with each of their patients on an individual basis and recognize where they’re coming from.

3. Confidence

Confidence is another important OTA personality trait. That’s where we come in. At Joyce, you’ll learn to be a highly competent OTA with comprehensive experience and knowledge. Our OTA curriculum is designed to cover the entire human lifespan and various approaches to OT, then prepare you for the NBCOT exam and licensure. Joyce graduates know what they’re doing and are ready to jump into the workforce.

Once you develop OT skills, you must confidently own your expertise. Being both competent and confident will make your clients trust you and help you land great OTA jobs.

4. Communication

Excellent OTAs have outstanding communication skills and know that communication is a two-way street. As an OTA you need to be able to clearly explain medical terminology and model therapeutic exercises, but you also need to listen to your patients and understand their experiences. Your patients may tell you their struggles, and you’ll need to listen attentively with them and your supervising OT to figure out the root of the problem and a solution. People with great communication skills thrive as OTAs.

Not only will you need to communicate with your patients and supervising OTs, your OTA career will require you to collaborate with other professionals including speech therapists, art therapists, nurses, teachers, and doctors. Communication is a top quality in a great OTA.

5. Creativity

The best OTAs have creative personalities and can find ways to turn tasks into games. This is especially important for OTAs who work with children, seniors, and disabled patients.

Supervising OTs also love hiring and working with creative OTAs. Great OTAs have creative personalities and can problem solve when they encounter curveballs during their day-to-day work. Opportunities to creatively take initiative make many OTAs love their work.

6. Determination

Like with any career, there will be hard days as an OTA. Some days even the best OTAs come home exhausted — helping patients with physical, mental, and emotional challenges can be intense. The mark of a great OTA is the passion and determination to keep making a difference, even when it’s hard. Determination is a crucial personal characteristic for OTAs. After all, the best things in life take effort.

°Őłó±đ°ù±đ’s also a great need for determined, empathetic men in the OT world. Nearly , which means that the field lacks gender diversity. Breaking into an industry where you’re in the minority takes grit, but it’s worth it for a fulfilling career that makes people’s lives better.

If you see some of these qualities in yourself, you have what it takes to make a difference as an OTA. And if you want to develop these qualities, we’re here to help. 51cg’s accredited OTA associate’s program will prepare you with both knowledge and experience, so you can excel as an OTA. In just five semesters you can finish ready to take the NBCOT exam, qualify for licensure, and dive into a meaningful career.

Occupational therapy (OT) is hard work for professionals and patients alike. As an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA), you will utilize fun therapy interventions that will keep a diverse community of patients engaged, enjoying therapy, and building skills for activities of daily living (ADL). Here are 53 creative OT treatment ideas to add to your OT activity toolkit.

Occupational Therapy Ideas for Kids

Children’s ADL center around playing and learning. While it’s not all fun and games, pediatric OTAs gamify many therapeutic interventions. These pediatric OT treatment are designed to keep kids both entertained and learning.

Occupational Therapy Games for Kids

1. Pictionary

Most children love drawing, and it’s a great OT fine motor activity.

2. Charades

Acting can develop fine and gross motor skills, and it gives children with different communication skills the opportunity to get a point across.

3. Role-playing

Role-playing encourages patients to communicate effectively and practice humor and assertiveness. You can practice using “I” statements, as well as prepare for challenging or stimulating settings like school, field trips, stores, and more.

4. Dress up

Kids love using their imaginations, and dressing up is a favorite OT idea for preschoolers. Dressing is also an important age-appropriate functional activity and an opportunity to work on motor skills.

5. Board games

Board games are great for communication, social skills, motor skills, reading, and more. You can also modify board games to suit your individual patient’s needs by customizing cards or the game’s rules.

6. Build with Legos or blocks

Not only do Legos and blocks encourage motor skills, they also can serve as a launch point for conversation practice. Kids love talking about their creations.

7. Fold paper airplanes

Folding paper airplanes or other origami activities is great for motor skill development. You can also make a game of trying to land the airplanes in a basket, experiment with different airplane designs, or see which airplanes can fly the farthest.

8. Phone games

There are some great phone games that walk children through OT exercises and can motivate them to keep learning and building strength.

Sensory Engagement Ideas for Pediatric Occupational Therapy

9. Play doh

Play doh encourages motor skills and creativity. The texture also makes play doh a great OT tool for autistic kids who may have additional sensory needs.

10. Water balloons

Tossing water balloons is a kid favorite. So much so that it makes the challenge of filling and tying them worth it to some kids who struggle with fine motor skills.

11. Scratch and sniff sticker collage

When looking for sensory OT project ideas, don’t forget about smell! Scratch and sniff stickers are fun, easy, and can help kids practice putting words to smells.

12. Sensory bins or sandboxes

A sandbox or a big tub filled with beads, dried beans, rice, or other tactile materials can be calming for children. It’s an especially fun OT activity for autistic individuals or those with sensory processing disorder.

13. Taste test foods

Everyone loves snack time. Try taste testing foods that are sweet, salty, sour, and bitter, then give your pediatric OT patients the chance to describe the flavors.

14. Finger painting

Finger painting combines sensory play with creativity and self-expression, making it a great OT idea for preschoolers to older kids and beyond.

15. Confetti

Make confetti by tearing up paper, using a hole punch, and (if appropriate) practicing with scissors. You may even practice the functional skill of vacuuming or sweeping up after playtime is over.

16. Vibration for lip closure

Some children struggle to close their lips, which leads to excessive drooling. The simple touch of an oral motor tool can give them enough body awareness to close their lips.

17. Suck up animal crackers with straws

We’re back to snack time! This activity builds oral motor musculature, requires precision and concentration, and offers immediate sensory feedback.

18. Blowing bubbles

Bubble blowing also works on oral muscles. Plus, it’s delightful.

Adapting Tools for Kids

19. Cheerios and Froot Loops

String cereal on a pipe cleaner or other string for an edible, accessible kids’ fashion statement. As a bonus, this is great for fine motor development.

20. Loops for practicing dressing

Dressing is an important skill for children, but you don’t want them disrobing in the clinic to practice. Use loops like bracelets, wristbands, cut off strips of fabric or ribbing from old t-shirts, or elastic bands to practice threading your patients’ hands and feet through the opening.

21. Button strips

Cut the button band of an old shirt to practice buttoning. A range of button sizes helps children of varying motor skill levels succeed with this OT idea.

22. Highlighter bookmark

Kids’ eyes can get lost on the page, making reading a struggle. A small strip of transparent colored plastic helps kids keep their place in a book.

Occupational Therapy Ideas for Adults

Adults with diverse ranges of abilities and backgrounds will come into your OT practice. Creatively applying OT activity ideas will allow you to help a vast population of adults. OT can even be applied in unconventional settings like prisons and homeless shelters, or with individuals with hoarding disorder or gaming addiction. Really, there’s no limit to the power of a creative OTA.

Many of these OT activity examples could be appropriate therapeutic interventions for children and seniors too, so don’t limit yourself to the listed categories.

Occupational Therapy Games for Adults

23. Sports

Sports turn exercise into a game, making it much more fun, engaging, and social than solitary treadmill jogging. Especially for injured patients, sports can be an excellent OT rehab activity.

24. Play catch

It’s a classic for a reason. Catch helps develop motor skills and can give patients something to do with their hands while having a conversation. If it’s not safe to start with a ball, balloon toss is a fun alternative!

25. Feats of strength

Here’s another way to gamify exercise. Set out an obstacle course, make a high jumping challenge, or begin an arm-wrestling tournament. A little friendly competition can motivate your patients to move.

26. Personal records

Competition isn’t for everyone. Some patients may feel overwhelmed at the prospect of comparing their activity to yours or a friend’s. Working to beat their own personal record takes away the pressure.

27. Bowling

Some patients will see right through your gamified attempts to get them moving. Bowling with friends makes a fun OT group activity.

28. Jigsaw puzzles

Jigsaw puzzles work your patient’s brain and their fingers. They are an excellent OT fine motor activity, providing a peaceful backdrop for conversation practice.

29. Jeopardy

You can customize (trivia) for all kinds of skills and situations. Your patient struggles with meal prep or grocery shopping? Make it a trivia game. Self-care and household tasks are overwhelming. Jeopardy makes conversations about frustrating topics fun.

30. Coupon clipping games

Money management is an important ADL. Turn coupon clipping into a game and a functional activity by looking for the cheapest vegetable, planning a hypothetical party with food from coupons, or organizing a meal plan with coupons.

Sensory Engagement Ideas for Adults in Occupational Therapy

31. Animal assisted OT

Animal assisted OT helps patients of all ages. Petting a dog or cat is a soothing sensory engagement activity, and clients love it.

32. Go for a walk

The great outdoors are full of sensory stimuli. Point out different colors and textures in the wildlife you see, and literally stop to smell the roses.

33. Tend a garden

Putting your hands in the soil can be calming, and you could even work up a sweat while pulling weeds. What’s more, it’s rewarding to watch your very own veggies, fruits, or flowers grow.

34. Music therapy

Go to concerts or recitals. Some clients will enjoy making music together or singing karaoke, so music is a creative and fun OT intervention.

35. Cooking

Even outside of OT, many adults struggle to cook healthy, delicious meals for themselves. Make a simple meal plan and help your patient shop for and prepare their favorite food.

36. Bead crafts

Beading develops fine motor skills and gives your patients the opportunity to create something they can be proud of and wear to express themselves.

Adapting Tools for Adults in Occupational Therapy

37. Tennis ball paint brush

Everyone needs art! Stick a paintbrush through a tennis ball. Gripping a large, soft ball is much easier than gripping a slender, slippery stick.

38. Foam tube toothbrush

The same principle applies here as with the paintbrush. Toothbrushes can be hard to hold, so make a foam grip.

39. Soap in a stocking

Put a bar of soap in a long stocking and tie it around the shower bar. The soap will be easy to find, easy to grab, won’t slip out of your patients’ grip, and will lather well.

Geriatric Occupational Therapy Treatment Ideas

Many OT treatment ideas for geriatrics revolve around day-to-day comfort and safety, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. It’s just as important to enjoy life at 90 as it is at nine.

Occupational Therapy Games for Seniors

40. Bingo

Not to play into stereotypes, but Bingo is a great OT game for seniors. It’s social, and placing the little chips makes it an effective OT fine motor activity.

41. Crafts

If your patients already know a craft like knitting or crochet, they might enjoy teaching you. This boosts their confidence, is functional, and is great for fine motor skills.

42. Collage

Print of family photos or use magazine clippings to make collages. This is an opportunity to talk about their family or memories, making it an OT treatment for dementia.

43. Matching games

Another fun OT treatment for dementia is matching games, where you turn over two cards and try to remember where the match is. These come in all kinds of cute designs and can keep your patients’ memories sharp.

44. Crossword puzzles

Everyone loves showing off their expertise. Find themed crossword puzzles that let your patients’ niche knowledge shine. Themed crossword puzzles are also great for autistic patients with a special interest.

Sensory Engagement Ideas for Seniors in Occupational Therapy

45. Manicures and pedicures

A little pampering can lift your patients’ moods. Manicures can help geriatric patients feel elegant, and they also provide sensory engagement. Orthopedic patients especially benefit from pedicures, because their feet can be painful and need extra TLC.

46. Install bird feeders

Visual stimulation is important, especially for seniors or people who spend much of their time in one room. Bird feeders outside the windows provide a cheerful source of entertainment. If your patient is crafty, you could even make or decorate one together and practice motor skills.

Adapting Tools for Geriatric Occupational Therapy Patients

47. Pool noodle card holders

Styrofoam pool noodles are an OTA’s best friend. Cut a “slice” of the noodle, add a parallel slit, and viola! Play Gin Rummy with no hands!

48. Foam tubes for crochet hooks

We talked about modifying toothbrushes and paintbrushes to make them easier to grip. Try the same trick on crochet hooks so that your geriatric patients can maintain their creative hobbies, even with tired hands.

49. Bells

Some patients with Alzheimer’s have a tendency to wander or get lost. Bells on doors can help their care team keep an eye on (or ear) them. Adding a curtain over a door can disguise it and help prevent elopement.

50. Fall-proof the house

You may need to modify aspects of your patients’ homes to make them safer for seniors. One step you can take is removing all throw rugs, which are a serious tripping hazard.

51. Night lights

Place night lights in bedrooms, bathrooms, hallways, and any areas where your patients may need to walk after dark. Darkness is a falling hazard and geriatric patients often struggle with balance, so all safeguards against falls are helpful.

52. Button lights in closets

After a lifetime of collecting, closets can become cluttered. Adding an easy-to-use, battery-operated light makes it easier for geriatric OT patients to access their belongings and lowers their risk of pulling heavy objects onto themselves.

53. Shower seats

Shower seats are a simple and effective OT tool. The shower can be slippery and is a common site for falling injuries. OT patients who have had hip replacements or struggle with balance especially benefit from shower seats.

Want to keep improving as an OTA? Joyce’s OTA program helps students navigate the job opportunities that follow your training. By using creative OT ideas learned from your education and applying this list of therapeutic interventions, you will enhance your clients’ ADL.

Explore Your Healthcare Education Options at 51cg

Whether you’re interested in our OTA program, or exploring nursing pathways through our ASN program, pursuing a traditional BSN degree or accelerated BSN program, advancing through our RN to BSN program, or reaching higher with an MSN degree, discover which nursing program aligns with your career goals by exploring our nursing school.

Animal-Assisted Occupational Therapy: How Animals Can Improve Patient Health

From pleasant puppy encounters to mood-boosting kitten videos, animals make people happy. But did you know that they can also improve your health? Animal-assisted Occupational Therapy (OT), also known as pet therapy, uses animals to help with OT patients’ psychological, emotional, mental, and cognitive health. At 51cg, our Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program teaches various therapeutic practices to help patients with physical and emotional needs. Animal-assisted therapy is one way you can help your patients live happy, healthy lives.

What is Animal-Assisted Therapy?

Animal-assisted therapy is a form of occupational therapy. As an OT modality, animal-assisted therapy uses positive relationships with animals to help with patients’ psychological, emotional, and physical health. In pet therapy, patients interact with well-trained animals and their handlers under the guidance and supervision of an OT or OTA. Animal-assisted therapy is usually part of a larger treatment plan that may include exercise, skills training, or cognitive care.

What is the Difference Between Service Animals and Therapy Animals?

There can be confusion about the difference between service animals, therapy animals, and emotional support animals. Here’s how they differ:

Service Animals

Service animals are thoroughly trained animals that live and work with one specific client who has a disability. All service animals have specialized training so they can help their owners with specific, disability-related tasks.

Therapy Animals

Therapy animals are well-trained animals that usually only interact with patients on a short-term basis, like during OT appointments. When they are off the clock, most therapy animals are simply pets. Any well-behaved animal can pass a screening to be a therapy animal. Therapy animals are typically dogs, cats, rabbits, or horses, but they can also be pigs, guinea pigs, llamas, or other animals.

Emotional Support Animals

Emotional support animals (ESA) are support pets that live with someone to provide emotional and psychological support. A therapist or psychiatrist can prescribe emotional support animals. ESAs can’t fly on most airlines and can’t go into restaurants, but they do get housing accommodations which means that they can live in otherwise pet-free housing. Any pet can be an ESA.

How Does Animal-Assisted Therapy Work?

In animal-assisted therapy, OTs and animal handlers help patients interact with well-behaved pets. This can take place in a variety of settings: hospitals, nursing homes, chemical dependency centers, psychological treatment centers, and even dental offices have found success with animal-assisted therapy.

In some cases, animal-assisted therapy can simply look like patients petting or sitting with dogs or cats. Sometimes animals aid in therapeutic activities through play. Individualized OT goals shape the way individual animal-assisted therapy sessions work.

What are the Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy?

Many benefits of animal-assisted therapy have to do with animals’ calming and mood elevating effects. These can benefit mental, physical, and cognitive health, as well as skills improvement. Pet therapy has proven healthcare benefits and improves many facets of wellbeing.

Mental health benefits of animal-assisted therapy

These may seem obvious, but they’re very important: being around animals cheers people up! Because OT looks at people’s holistic health, happiness is key. A systematic review of 36 articles on animal-assisted therapy found that it’s effective in .

Physical health benefits of animal-assisted therapy

Just being around animals can lower many patients’ blood pressure and heart rate. show that elderly patients with chronic joint pain reported feeling less pain during OT sessions when animals were present.

Skills benefits of animal-assisted therapy

Having an animal present can encourage OT patients to perform therapeutic treatments and exercises, and it makes them more fun. Joint movement exercises are much more enjoyable when they include tossing a ball for a dog!

Cognitive health benefits of animal-assisted therapy

Happy, relaxed patients are more willing to participate in therapeutic behaviors, especially ones that take them out of their physical or emotional comfort zone. Animal-assisted therapy can help OT patients to emerge from their shell and participate in cognitive therapies that they dislike doing.

What are Animal-Assisted Activities in Occupational Therapy?

Dog owners know that a motivated pup will get you out of the house and walking around the block. Animal walks are one example of animal-assisted activities in OT. Therapies don’t need to be physical or strenuous to count as AAA. Petting, playing with, and even talking to an animal can count as AAA in OT.

What is the Future of Animal-Assisted Occupational Therapy?

With roots going back to Ancient Greece, where physicians wrote about the therapeutic effects of riding and working with horses, pet therapy has stood the test of time. As of 2020, 4.28 million Americans in animal-assisted therapy. Now, with complementary treatments becoming more and more accepted, animal-assisted therapy is here to stay.

What are Animal-Assisted Therapy Jobs?

OTAs interested in animal-assisted therapy can research work as Recreational Therapists (RT). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the mean animal-assisted therapy salary (as an RT) earns $51,330 annually, averaging $24.68 per hour. The field is expected to grow over the next decade, opening the door to more opportunities.

What are Animal-Assisted Therapy Programs?

An OTA program is an ideal first step toward a career in animal-assisted therapy. Joyce’s OTA program teaches the skills to help diverse populations live a whole and healthy life through several modalities.

OTAs hold a key role in maintaining our aging population’s lifelong health. Attending an OTA program that incorporates animal-assisted therapy can give you and your patients an advantage when it comes to holistic health.

Animal-Assisted Therapy Certification

A Joyce OTA degree is a great start for an animal-assisted therapy career. If you find your calling in OT and want to specialize, you can earn animal-assisted therapy certifications from:

Advanced Programs for Animal-Assisted Therapy

Another way to make a career in animal-assisted therapy is to pursue advanced education. Studying as an OT or licensed counselor can open up sustainable career options that include help from furry or feathered friends.

Therapy Animal FAQs

What Patients Qualify for Animal-Assisted Occupational Therapy?

Animal-assisted OT can help many kinds of patients, including those with neurological differences, mental illnesses, physical injuries, and disabilities. In order to qualify for animal-assisted OT, patients usually can get a referral from a psychologist, OT, or physician.

Is Pet Therapy the Same as Animal-Assisted Therapy?

Yes, pet therapy is a casual term for animal-assisted therapy.

What Animals Can Be Therapy Animals?

Many different species can be therapy animals. The most common therapy animals are dogs, cats, horses, and rabbits. However, pigs, guinea pigs, llamas, and other animals can also be part of animal-assisted OT treatments.

At 51cg, we offer multiple paths to rewarding healthcare careers. From our specialized OTA program for animal-assisted therapy enthusiasts to our nursing pathways—whether you’re beginning your healthcare journey with our ASN program, pursuing a 3 year BSN degree or accelerated BSN program, advancing through our RN to BSN program, or reaching higher with an MSN degree, discover which nursing pathway aligns with your career goals by exploring our nursing school.

For many potential Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs), the range of possible OTA jobs and work locations is a major draw to the career. As an OTA, you have the option to find a career that best suits your personality, working with a population in a setting where your individual skills shine. 51cg’s flexible OTA program is designed to support you in finding an OTA job where you can thrive and make a difference.

Where Do Occupational Therapy Assistants Work?

OTAs work in diverse environments. From hospitals and clinics to home health and schools, there’s an OTA career option that fits your goals and work style.

Occupational Therapy (OT) is holistically-focused, meaning you will collaborate with different healthcare and therapeutic professionals throughout the course of your career. Your professional partnerships will vary depending on the OTA job you choose. Coworkers are a huge part of daily work life, so consider your working relationships when choosing an OTA career path.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Schools

A child’s ‘occupation’ is play. Helping children learn through play is a key focus of pediatric OT, and having OTAs available in schools is important for students, their parents, and teachers who need extra support.

OTAs working in schools may physically adapt the classroom. For example, you may modify a keyboard to help a student with muscular dystrophy type and communicate or create quiet spaces for children with focus disorders. OTA jobs in schools also focus on neurodiverse students who have autism spectrum disorder or ADHD. You may recommend or implement programs designed to help these students succeed at school and at home or pull children aside for short OT sessions during the school day.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Rehabilitation Centers

There are many kinds of rehabilitation centers, with OTA jobs available in all of them. Two categories of rehab environments include medical rehab centers and in-patient substance rehab centers.

OTAs in medical rehab centers help patients restore function after an injury. Here, you’ll collaborate with Physical Therapists (PT). Your patients may see a PT to build back physical strength and range of motion after an illness or injury. You’ll help them regain the skills to complete their activities of daily living. Whether you work at a long- or short-term rehab center, you’ll make a difference in restoring your patients’ physical, emotional, social, and mental health.

OTAs in addiction treatment rehab centers work with patients whose substance abuse has caused medical issues (though some rehab centers focus on recovery from other addictions, such as gambling or hoarding disorder). In all cases, OTAs working in addiction treatment will help replace addictive behaviors with new, healthier occupations and collaborate with psychiatrists and mental health therapists.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Assisted Living Facilities

OTAs are in demand at assisted living facilities, long-term care facilities, and retirement homes. Many residents in these facilities have survived a stroke or have dementia, Parkinson’s disease, or other physically debilitating illnesses. OTA jobs caring for older individuals give you the opportunity to help someone maintain their quality of life and a level of independence.

Assisted living OT jobs require OTAs to examine residents’ former occupations, lifetime habits, preferences, and needs, then work with an OT to create and carry out a care plan. Your work will keep patients happy and active.

Home Health Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs

Some home health OTA jobs take place nearly entirely in patient homes, but even OTAs who work in clinics or outpatient treatment centers are known to make home visits. OTAs can do a great deal of work in their patients’ homes. After all, this is where people do most of their activities of daily living and where they usually feel most comfortable.

As a home health OTA, you’ll observe your patients as they perform daily tasks. Then you will make plans to assist them or modify their environments to better serve their needs. Home health OTAs help prepare meals and coffee, assist with personal hygiene, keep records for and with their patients, accompany patients as they do hobbies, and more. As a home health OTA, you’ll form close and meaningful relationships with your clients. Additionally, home health is one of the higher paying OTA jobs.

Animal Assisted Occupational Therapy Jobs

Animal-loving OTAs may want to research animal-assisted OT jobs. Incorporating the power of animals can help reduce stress and improve mental health outcomes. It can also help patients accept therapy and be more willing to participate in exercises. OTAs help clients regain skills relating to caring for their own pets or teach them how to adapt to a new service animal. An OTA degree is the first step toward a career in animal-assisted OT.

51cg is dedicated to OTA student success, offering job placement assistance for life to all our graduates. OTA graduates can also find OTA job opportunities through the connections made during hands-on fieldwork. Ready for a career that makes a daily impact in the lives of others? Check out our OTA program today.

If you become an occupational therapy assistant you’ll make a difference in other people’s lives on a regular basis. However, anyone considering a new career also has to think about how much they’ll make in their new vocation. This is how much occupational therapy assistants make, and how their salaries can vary.

Related Resource: What Is an Occupational Therapy Assistant?

Average Salary for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the was $63,560 per year. That comes out to $30.56 per hour. Just like all jobs, there is pay variation based on region and specialization, and plenty of room for career advancement.

OTA hourly salary

$30.56

OTA annual salary

$63,560

OTA Salary by Industry

According to the BLS, the top industries with the were:

• Individual and family services: $80,410
• Home healthcare services: $73,840
• Continuing care retirement communities and assisted living facilities for the elderly: $71,990
• Nursing care facilities (skilled nursing facilities): $69,090
• Management of companies and enterprises: $68,720

Related Resource: 6 Great OTA Career Opportunities

OTA Salary by State – Highest & Lowest Paying Cities

Regional economies also shape OTA salary. The annual mean according to the BLS include:

• Alabama: $64,320
• Alaska: N/A
• Arizona: $59,710
• Arkansas: $67,490
• California: $75,080
• Colorado: $59,950
• Connecticut: $67,090
• Delaware: $71,930
• District of Columbia: $60,230
• Florida: $65,370
• Georgia: $66,740
• Hawaii: $73,330
• Idaho: $52,740
• Illinois: $62,860
• Indiana: $54,510
• Iowa: $56,960
• Kansas: $58,650
• Kentucky: $64,300
• Louisiana: $63,310
• Maine: $56,250
• Maryland: $66,580
• Massachusetts: $65,760
• Michigan: $54,040
• Minnesota: $54,540
• Mississippi: $60,180
• Missouri: $56,230
• Montana: $57,720
• Nebraska: $58,630
• Nevada: $78,100
• New Hampshire: $65,620
• New Jersey: $72,860
• New Mexico: $69,800
• New York: $64,870
• North Carolina: $66,100
• North Dakota: $56,130
• Ohio: $61,760
• Oklahoma: $61,760
• Oregon: $63,680
• Pennsylvania: $55,820
• Rhode Island: $62,190
• South Carolina: $64,160
• South Dakota: $46,420
• Tennessee: $60,520
• Texas: $70,770
• Utah: $63,580
• Vermont: $63,400
• Virginia: $66,580
• Washington: $65,050
• West Virginia: $58,500
• Wisconsin: $51,760
• Wyoming: $60,360

Highest and Lowest Paying Cities for OTAs

The BLS also breaks down OTA pay by city.

The for OTAs are:

• San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA: $85,570
• Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, NV: $77,720
• San Diego-Carlsbad, CA: $77,650
• Reno, NV: $76,970
• Sacramento-Roseville-Arden-Arcade, CA: $76,750

The for OTAs are:

• Eau Claire, WI: $44,850
• Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls, NY: $48,850
• La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN: $49,130
• Racine, WI: $49,760
• Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA-NJ: $50,430

OTA vs PTA Salary

Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) help patients with therapy interventions, which includes activities of daily life or plans for patients to help them learn how to live a more independent life.

• OTA mean hourly wage
• OTA mean annual wage

Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs) help patients regain muscle strength, range of motion, joint mobility and flexibility.

• Annual mean wage:
• Hourly mean wage:

Related Resource: Occupational Therapy VS Physical Therapy

Occupational Therapy Assistant vs Occupational Therapist Salary

As an Occupational Therapy Assistant, you’ll provide much of the same treatment and support to clients as do Occupational Therapists, however, OTAs operate under the supervision of licensed OTs. Here’s the difference in salary between the two careers, according to the BLS.

• OTA Median Annual Wage Per Year:
• OT Median Annual Wage Per Year:

Other Benefits to Being an OTA

Besides the salary, becoming an OTA also has other benefits. As someone who makes daily life possible for others, you’ll do meaningful work. One of the biggest indicators of whether someone likes their job is if they can see the value in it. You’ll see meaning in every step of progress your clients make.

Being an OTA is also an active job. You’ll be up and about on a regular basis, and while you’ll spend some time behind a desk, that won’t be your life. Being able to avoid the downsides of a sedentary lifestyle is a major benefit of being an OTA. Do it if you’re excited about getting up, getting out there, and improving people’s lives with your new career.

Related Resource: 6 Personality Traits of Highly Effective OTAs

Compassion Fatigue in Nursing

Compassion is a precious commodity, especially in healthcare. Many students become nurses and OTAs because they want to make more than a living — they want to make a difference. A career in healthcare is meaningful work, but it can be emotionally demanding too. If the desire to help others and impact lives was one of the reasons you entered the field, compassion is often the source of energy that keeps you going. All healthcare workers must preserve their capacity for empathy, so it’s important to guard yourself against compassion fatigue when times get tough.

Related Resource: Empathy in Nursing: How to Provide Empathetic Care

Compassion Fatigue Symptoms

Compassion fatigue can be described as a type of psychological deterioration, affecting your ability to do your work or complete daily activities. However, this type of fatigue can present itself physically, psychologically, and behaviorally and can include:

Physical Symptoms of Compassion Fatigue

• Insomnia
• Exhaustion
• Fatigue
• Changes in appetite
• Digestive issues
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Increased susceptibility to illness
• Somatization (translating emotional stress into physical symptoms)

Psychological Symptoms of Compassion Fatigue

• Emotional exhaustion
• Drastic shifts in mood
• A decreased sense of personal and professional accomplishment
• Pessimism or cynical attitude
• Becoming overly irritable or quick to anger
• Experiencing detachment
• Ruminating about the suffering of others.
• Reduced ability to feel sympathy and empathy

Behavioral Symptoms of Compassion Fatigue

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Secretive or overt self-medicating
• Missing work
• Anger and irritability
• Impaired decision-making
• Problems with personal relationships
• Leaving the profession

Compassion Fatigue Test

Do you think you may be experiencing compassion fatigue? This free, online will help you determine if you’re suffering from caregiver burnout.

Compassion Fatigue Stages

Compassion fatigue doesn’t hit all at once. Instead, it is a slow phenomenon, broken down into four stages.

1. Zealot Phase

You are enthusiastic, involved, excited about work, and are committed to making a difference. You go the extra mile, putting in extra hours and volunteering to help, without being asked or ordered.

2. Irritability Phase

Feelings of enthusiasm start to wane, followed by avoiding work responsibilities. While still performing in your care-taking role, you may avoid contact with patients and their families, make small mistakes, cut corners, and occasionally lose concentration and focus.

3. Withdrawal Phase

Your enthusiasm for your work falls, exhaustion is more frequent, and the line between personal life and care-taking responsibilities blurs. The lack of clear boundaries results in irritability towards your patients. Your team, family, and friends notice your enthusiasm is gone and you are much more withdrawn.

4. Zombie Phase

While distancing yourself from those you are taking care of, you may also feel despondent and angry, and project this onto coworkers, viewing them as incompetent. Your irritability slides into disdain, hostility, suspicion, and blaming your patients. You exhibit hopelessness and even outright anger.

Compassion Fatigue Treatment

The key to dealing with compassion fatigue from a personal standpoint is to provide yourself with improved self-care. Improving self-care can be difficult for nurses, as they are accustomed to constantly putting others’ needs before their own. However, taking extra time for yourself is essential to keeping compassion fatigue to a minimum.

Self-care includes:

• Taking time to eat well
• Staying hydrated
• Getting enough sleep
• Staying active
• Not over-committing yourself on a routine basis
• Utilizing meditation
• Getting a massage
• Reaching out for professional help
• Nurturing social relationships
• Avoiding information overload
• Identifying your priorities and engaging in activities that replenish and rejuvenate you
• Practicing gratitude and being in the present moment
• Focusing on areas that you have control over

Related Resource: 50 Self-Care Ideas for Nurses to Recharge

How to Prevent Compassion Fatigue

There are many ways to prevent or ease the effects of compassion fatigue. Self care, creating a routine, and building work relationships are some of the ways you can avoid fatiguing. Here are other ways to prevent or ease the effects of compassion fatigue include:

• Set a schedule that works for you, allowing you to balance your work and personal life.
• Make time for yourself by setting aside time to practice self-care.
• Create a support system with other nurses.
• Make work an enjoyable place, even in small ways.
• Change things up by moving around to new roles, positions, departments, or geographic locations.

Compassion Fatigue vs Burnout – What is the difference?

While they might compassion fatigue vs burnout sound interchangeable, compassion fatigue and burnout are different problems.

Compassion fatigue refers to the negative emotions that individuals feel from helping others at work. The fatigue comes from helping others—you want to keep helping, but you are overwhelmed from being exposed to the trauma of others. It is also known as secondary trauma, referencing the way that other people’s trauma can become your own.

Burnout is a psychological term referring to a general exhaustion and lack of interest or motivation regarding one’s work. It typically emerges over time as a response to prolonged stress and can occur in any profession.

Related Resource: How to Combat Nurse Burnout

Begin Your Healthcare Journey with Wellness in Mind

Whether you’re beginning your healthcare journey with our ASN program, pursuing a 3 year BSN degree or accelerated BSN program, advancing through our RN to BSN program, or reaching higher with an MSN degree, we’ll help you develop the self-care skills needed to maintain compassion throughout your career. Start your balanced healthcare education at our nursing school.