Associate in Applied Science - Occupational Therapy Assistant in Kent United States | Green River College

Occupational therapy is a healthcare field focused on helping individuals regain independence after physical injuries, illnesses, or developmental, psychosocial, or age-related challenges. The term "occupational" here doesn't solely refer to jobs, but rather to therapeutic interventions that help people perform essential daily tasks, self-care routines, and recreational activities relevant to their life roles. Occupational therapy assistants typically work alongside a healthcare team that may consist of occupational therapists, doctors, nurses, social workers, educators, physical therapists, and other professionals. Students in this program not only train to become assistants but also acquire versatile skills applicable to various caregiving professions.

These assistants find employment in diverse settings including public schools, long-term care facilities, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and senior day programs. Under an occupational therapist's guidance, they deliver patient treatments and contribute to assessment processes.

The associate degree program for occupational therapy assistants holds accreditation from ACOTE (Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education), a division of AOTA (American Occupational Therapy Association) located at 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929. ACOTE can be reached at (301) 652-AOTA or through their website www.acoteonline.org. Program graduates qualify to take the national certification exam administered by NBCOT (National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy). Passing this exam grants the COTA (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant) credential. While all states mandate licensure for practice, most base their requirements on NBCOT exam results. Important to note: felony convictions might impact eligibility for both the certification exam and state licensure.