Occupational Therapy Assistant
Career Description
Occupational therapy assistants work with patients to complete the treatment regimen established by occupational therapists. They monitor the patient’s progress and make explicit notes for a report to the therapist. On a typical day, an occupational therapy assistant may teach a disabled patient how to move around despite limited mobility, perform routine strengthening or muscle toning exercises with the patient or simply complete office tasks, such as managing insurance forms and other paperwork.
Annual Salary
| Entry: $27,827 | Mean: $35,214 | Experienced: $42,494 |
| Source: Kansas City Metropolitan Healthcare Council, 2006 Salary Data | ||
Hourly Wage
| Entry: $13.40 | Mean: $16.93 | Experienced: $20.43 |
| Source: Kansas City Metropolitan Healthcare Council, 2006 Salary Data | ||
Academic Requirements
An associate’s degree from an accredited training program usually is required for an occupational therapy assistant. One-year certificate programs may be sufficient to secure employment. Most states regulate occupational therapy assistants, who must pass a certification exam.
Schools
Kansas City Kansas Community College
913/334-1100
Penn Valley Community College
816/759-4000
Professional Associations
National
American Occupational Therapy Association
State
Missouri Occupational Therapist Association
Missouri State Board of Occupational Therapy
