Becoming an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) is a fantastic career choice if you’re passionate about helping others regain their independence. Not only is the job rewarding, but the demand for OTAs is also on the rise, making it an excellent path for long-term career stability.
Whether you’re just out of high school or considering a career change, this guide will walk you through six simple steps to becoming a qualified Occupational Therapy Assistant. These steps will help you understand the educational requirements, certification process, and how to land your dream OTA job. Let’s dive in!
1. Understand the Role of an Occupational Therapy Assistant
Before you start any career journey, it’s essential to fully understand the role you’ll be stepping into. An Occupational Therapy Assistant works under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist (OT), helping patients with various physical, mental, or developmental disabilities improve their daily lives.
As an OTA, you’ll:
- Help patients with exercises and therapeutic activities
- Monitor patient progress and report it to the OT
- Assist in teaching patients how to use adaptive equipment
- Provide emotional support to patients and their families
This hands-on role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working directly with people and making a tangible impact on their lives. Now that you know what the job entails, let’s move on to the steps you need to take to start your OTA journey.
2. Complete the Required Education
To become an Occupational Therapy Assistant, you must earn an associate degree from an accredited program. These programs typically take two years to complete and are offered at community colleges, technical schools, and universities.
Here’s what you can expect in an OTA program:
- Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Psychology, and Medical Terminology
- OTA-Specific Training: Classes focused on rehabilitation, pediatrics, geriatrics, and therapeutic exercises
- Fieldwork Experience: Hands-on experience is critical in OTA education. You will complete several clinical placements where you’ll practice what you’ve learned in real-world settings.
Choosing an Accredited Program
It’s crucial to ensure the program you choose is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). Graduating from an accredited program is a requirement for taking the national certification exam, which we’ll discuss in the next step.
3. Pass the NBCOT Certification Exam
Once you’ve earned your associate degree, the next step is to become certified. You’ll need to pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam, which is designed to test your knowledge and skills as an OTA.
What to Expect on the Exam
- Format: The NBCOT exam is computer-based and includes multiple-choice questions.
- Content: The questions focus on patient care, professional standards, and intervention planning.
- Study Resources: Many OTA programs offer prep courses for the exam, but you can also find study guides and practice tests online.
Passing this exam allows you to use the title Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), a requirement for licensure in most states.
4. Obtain State Licensure
Once you pass the NBCOT exam, the next step is to apply for state licensure. Each state has different licensing requirements, so it’s important to check with your local licensing board. In most cases, you’ll need to:
- Submit proof of your associate degree and NBCOT certification
- Pass a background check
- Pay a licensure fee
Many states also require OTAs to complete continuing education credits to maintain their license over time.
5. Build Hands-On Experience Through Internships and Entry-Level Jobs
Having your certification and license in hand is a huge accomplishment, but now it’s time to gain real-world experience. Most OTA programs include fieldwork, but you’ll want to continue building hands-on skills by pursuing internships or entry-level positions. Working with different patient populations (e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health) will broaden your expertise and make you a more competitive candidate.
How to Find Your First Job as an OTA
- Networking: Connect with professionals you met during your fieldwork or through professional associations.
- Job Boards: Search online platforms, such as Indeed, LinkedIn, or specialized healthcare job boards.
- Volunteer: If you’re having trouble finding paid work, consider volunteering to gain more experience.
Remember, the more experience you gain, the more likely you are to land a full-time position in your desired specialty.
6. Continue Professional Development
Once you’ve secured your position as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, don’t stop there! Continuing education is a key component of the healthcare field. By keeping up with the latest techniques and trends, you’ll ensure that you’re providing the best care possible for your patients.
Ways to Continue Learning as an OTA
- Attend Workshops and Seminars: Many organizations, like the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), offer workshops that cover new advancements in the field.
- Take Specialized Certifications: Consider gaining certifications in areas like hand therapy, autism, or geriatrics to expand your skill set.
- Join Professional Organizations: Being part of an organization like AOTA offers networking opportunities and access to the latest research and job postings.
The Importance of Career Advancement
Advancing your career doesn’t always mean returning to school to become an OT. Many OTAs pursue leadership roles or specialize in specific areas of therapy. By continuing to develop your skills, you’ll open doors to new opportunities in your career.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an Occupational Therapy Assistant?
It typically takes about two years to complete an associate degree in occupational therapy assistance. Add a few months to study for and pass the NBCOT exam, plus any time required for state licensure.
How much does an Occupational Therapy Assistant make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for OTAs is around $60,000, though this varies depending on experience, location, and the type of facility you work in.
Is the demand for OTAs growing?
Yes! The demand for OTAs is expected to grow by 25% over the next decade, making it one of the fastest-growing healthcare professions. This demand is driven by an aging population and an increased focus on rehabilitation services.
Can I work as an OTA without certification?
No, certification is mandatory to work as an OTA in the U.S. You must pass the NBCOT exam and obtain state licensure to practice legally.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Journey Today
Becoming an Occupational Therapy Assistant is a rewarding career path that offers job stability and the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. By following these six easy steps—understanding the role, completing your education, passing the NBCOT exam, obtaining licensure, gaining experience, and pursuing ongoing development—you can confidently step into your new career.
The road to becoming an OTA might seem long, but with determination and the right resources, you can be on your way to a fulfilling job that improves the quality of life for countless patients. Start your journey today!