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Degrees and Schools
A lot of schools offer occupational therapy assistant associate degrees and one year certificate programs. Most students obtain an associate degree. Training is provided by vocational and technical schools and community colleges.
Attending a school that has received accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education is a major requirement for taking the national certifying exam for occupational therapist assistants. These schools usually provide occupational therapy associate degree programs.
Certification is provided by the National Board for Certifying Occupational Therapists. Certification is voluntary. In some states, passing the national certification exam meets the requirement for regulation. The American Occupational Therapy Association provides additional information about state regulations.
Classes
Students in occupational therapy education programs usually study subjects such as:
- Occupational therapy performance skills
- Therapeutic activities and exercises
- Interpersonal skills in therapeutics
- Rehabilitation theory
- Anatomy and physiology
- Medical terminology
- Gerontology
- Psychology
The education programs include at least 16 weeks of supervised fieldwork in a clinic or community environment.
Online Classes and Programs
Since most occupational therapy assistant programs require hands-on training most schools do not offer online classes. On-campus programs are the preferred choice.
Employment Requirements
Employers typically seek candidates that have an occupational therapy assistant associate degree or a one year certificate in the subject. The major job providers are hospitals, occupational therapists' offices, rehabilitation centers, residential care facilities and home healthcare agencies.
The practice of occupational therapist assistants is regulated in forty states through licensing, registration or certification. The eligibility requirements vary by state.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
While evaluating schools, prospective students should consider getting answers to the following questions:
- Training - Does the program include plenty of hands-on training? Does the program include externships? Do students have to find their own externship? How long are the externships?
- School's Reputation - Does the school have a good reputation with local employers?
- Job Placement - Does the school offer job placement services? How does the school's job placement rate compare to other schools?
- Curriculum - Does the program allow students to specialize in their area of interest? Does it include at least 16 weeks of supervised fieldwork in a clinic or community environment? Does the program prepare students to take the national certification exam? What is the passing rate of their graduates that take the national certification exam?
- Financial Aid - What types of financial aid are available? Is the school qualified to provide federal financial aid?
- Accreditation - Is the school accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education?
Occupational Therapist Assistants Job Description
A career as an occupational therapist assistant is a good fit for people that have a passion for helping others. Occupational therapist assistants have the opportunity to improve the quality of life of developmentally and physically challenged individuals. They work as part of a team that helps improve the lives of clients with physical, emotional, mental and developmental impairments and disabilities.
Occupational therapist assistants, also known as occupational therapy assistants, have a vital role in improving their client' ability to perform daily activities. They work under the supervision of an occupational therapist. Some of their responsibilities are shown below:
- Assist clients with rehabilitative activities and exercises
- Assess the daily living skills and capabilities of developmentally or emotionally disabled clients
- Consult with an occupational therapist to create a treatment plan
- Supervise clients to ensure they're following their treatment plan
- Record the billing of the patient's health insurance provider
- Teach patients to stretch and strengthen their muscles
- Teach clients how to dress and feed themselves
- Monitor treatment plans and make adjustments to the plans when necessary
- Help select activities that meet the needs and capabilities of clients
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