How to Become an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)
- What Occupational Therapy Assistants Do
- Key Skills and Traits for Success
- Work Settings for OTAs
- How to Become an Occupational Therapy Assistant (5 Steps)
- Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary by State
- Education and Certification Pathways
- Career Growth and Advancement
- Cost and Duration of Training
- Pros and Cons
- State Licensing and Requirements
- Take the First Step Toward a Career as an OTA
If you’re passionate about helping people regain independence after injury or illness, becoming an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) offers a fulfilling and high-demand healthcare career.
Occupational Therapy Assistants work directly with patients under the supervision of Occupational Therapists, helping them improve motor skills, adapt to disabilities, and return to daily life activities.
What Occupational Therapy Assistants Do
OTAs help patients develop or recover daily living and work skills through therapeutic exercises and adaptive techniques.
Typical Responsibilities
- Assist with treatment plans developed by occupational therapists
- Lead patients in physical and cognitive therapy activities
- Track progress and update documentation
- Educate patients and families on adaptive equipment
- Support rehabilitation in schools, hospitals, and clinics
OTAs make a direct difference in improving patients’ independence and quality of life.
Key Skills and Traits for Success
- Compassion and patience
- Strong communication and motivation skills
- Physical stamina for hands-on therapy work
- Problem-solving and creativity in adapting treatments
- Knowledge of anatomy, psychology, and rehabilitation methods
Work Settings for OTAs
- Hospitals and rehabilitation centers
- Outpatient therapy clinics
- Nursing and long-term care facilities
- Schools and pediatric centers
- Home health agencies
How to Become an Occupational Therapy Assistant (5 Steps)
1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Take science, psychology, and health-related courses to prepare for an OTA program.
2. Complete an Accredited OTA Program
Earn an associate degree from an ACOTE-accredited program, which includes classroom study and clinical fieldwork.
3. Pass the NBCOT Exam
Graduates must pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to become certified.
4. Obtain State Licensure
All states require OTAs to hold a valid state license. Licensing typically requires NBCOT certification and continuing education.
5. Begin Your OTA Career
Find opportunities in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or home healthcare. Some OTAs specialize in pediatrics, geriatrics, or mental health.
Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary by State
💡 Top-paying positions are often found in home health care and nursing facilities.
Education and Certification Pathways
| Pathway | Typical Duration | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree (ACOTE-accredited) | 2 years | Required for entry-level employment |
| NBCOT Certification | After graduation | National credential required for practice |
| State Licensure | Varies by state | Legal requirement to work as an OTA |
Career Growth and Advancement
OTAs can specialize or advance into:
- Occupational Therapy Specialist (pediatrics, geriatrics, rehab)
- Rehabilitation Manager or Coordinator
- Occupational Therapist (OT) with a bachelor’s-to-master’s bridge program
- Clinical Educator or Program Director
Cost and Duration of Training
- Program Cost: $10,000–$30,000
- Duration: 2 years (associate degree)
- NBCOT Exam Fee: $555
Many OTA programs offer flexible scheduling or hybrid coursework for working students.
Pros and Cons
State Licensing and Requirements
All states require OTA licensure and NBCOT certification. Continuing education is often required for renewal.
View OTA Licensing by State »
Take the First Step Toward a Career as an OTA
If you’re compassionate, active, and want to help people regain independence, becoming an Occupational Therapy Assistant offers both purpose and stability.
🎓 Start Your Occupational Therapy Assistant Training Today
Occupational Therapy Assistant Salary by State
Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
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