Occupational Therapy Assistant
Occupational therapy assistant generally works under the supervision and directives of occupational therapists. OT assistants aid the various rehabilitative occupational therapy treatments to enable people whose disabilities or limitations make it difficult to manage daily tasks, to function more effectively.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Job Description
The simple tasks of daily life, such as getting dressed, taking a bath, opening a can or feeding a pet, can often seem impossible for individualt with various physical or mental disabilities, or other challenges. For those who are interested in helping such people live more productive, independent lives, but don’t wish to spend a number of years in school, a career of an occupational therapist assistant is a great choice. It should be noted, however, that Occupational Therapy Assistants pay is less then occupational therapy salary for a fully certified OT.
Working under supervision, certified occupational therapy assistant helps patients through various rehabilitative activities, treatments and exercises.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs
The future for OT assistants careers looks good, with a number of job openings being expected to soon outnumber the job seekers. Government economists predict job growth for this occupation to increase much faster than the general average for many other careers. In fact, occupational therapy one of the fastest-growing careers today.
There is a number reasons for this speedy job growth. As the U.S. population ages, and life expectancy constantly increases, more and more older people will require occupational therapy. In addition, more and more tasks are being delegated to OT assistants and not done by the actual OTs. The main reason for this is to keep the the cost of treatment down, since OT assistants get paid less than OTs.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for occupational therapist assistant in the US is $50,830. The salary rate will often vary depending upon a number of factors, such as location, years of professional experience, and more. Many Occupational Therapy Assistants occasionally requested to work evening and weekend hours and may get bonuses and additional benefits.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Programs
Occupational Therapy Assistants are required to provide service to individuals with various physical, mental, or developmental limitations and disabilities all across different life phases. Ots and their assistants work with individuals who need to rehabilitate and improve their skills necessary to perform self-care tasks, work and leisure activities. The major in Occupational therapy requires general general education courses, in addition to social, biological and behavioral sciences, as well as focused occupational therapy courses. Occupational Therapy Assistant program usually utilizes classroom instruction as well as field work experience to properly prepare the students to meet occupational therapy certification and employment standards.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Training
All occupational therapy practitioners must complete the required supervised fieldwork programs in addition to the specified coursework and pass a national certification examination. A license to practice occupational therapy is mandatory in most states, as are occupational therapy continuing education classes required to maintain that licensure. In some states, Occupational Therapy Assistant may work without a license. There are various programs that offer online occupational therapy assistant programs, which can be completed in a significantly less time than within a formal school setting. Most of these online programs are fully accredited and upon successful completion of the course, students receive a occupational therapy assistant certification.
Occupational Therapy Assistant career is a wonderful option for those who wish to make a difference in the world by helping people lead better and more productive lives.
Occupational Therapy Assistant
