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An occupational therapy assistant, working under the direct supervision of a
registered occupational therapist, provides
rehabilitative services to patients with mental, emotional, physical and/or
developmental disabilities. Occupational therapy assistants administer treatment
plans (that have been developed by an occupational therapist) aimed at allowing an
individual with a disability to perform his/her daily responsibilities, such as
those needed for basic living and/or employment. An occupational therapy assistant
may do such things as helping patients to perform exercises, teaching
rehabilitation activities, and choosing the appropriate equipment needed to perform an
exercise. Their overall goal is to help patients with disabilities to
perform everyday tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, making the bed, and
homemaking. Occupational therapy assistants often work in rehabilitation
centers, nursing homes, hospitals, mental health facilities, etc.
In terms of education, this position requires an associate?s degree
(two year degree) from a nationally accredited occupational therapy assisting
program. After the education process is complete, an individual must pass an
examination administered by the
National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc in order to become a
certified occupational therapy assistant. State licensure may be required
depending on state regulations. For additional information, please visit
The American Occupational
Therapy Association, Inc. Please use the links provided below to learn
more about specific educational programs pertaining to this field.
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