Program
What do OTAs do?
An Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) works under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT) to provide hands-on support to patients who are recovering from injuries, managing disabilities, or dealing with chronic health conditions. Their goal is to help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills they need for daily living and working.
OTAs play a critical role in enabling individuals to regain independence and confidence in their everyday activities, from personal hygiene and dressing to job-related tasks and leisure activities.
Patient Care & Support:
• Work directly with patients to carry out therapy sessions as prescribed by the Occupational Therapist.
• Assist patients with physical exercises, stretches, and activities that improve motor skills, strength, and coordination.
• Teach patients how to use adaptive equipment, such as wheelchairs, grab bars, or special utensils, to facilitate daily tasks.
Plan & Implement Activities:
• Help design and modify treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each patient.
• Create enjoyable and engaging activities that promote physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
• Adapt activities to fit each patient's unique abilities, ensuring success and motivation.
Patient Education & Family Support:
• Educate patients and their families on how to continue exercises and therapeutic activities at home.
• Offer emotional support and encouragement to both patients and their loved ones.
Administrative Tasks:
• Document patient progress and report changes to the Occupational Therapist.
• Maintain accurate records of treatment plans and therapy sessions.
• Coordinate with other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care for patients.
Our 16-month program consist of:
• Cohort-based structure for a focused and collaborative learning environment.
• A sequential course structure leading to rich clinical fieldwork experiences.
- Integrated fieldwork as a co-requisite to academic learning for a holistic educational journey.
- Rigorous Preparation for Certification and Licensure
Graduates of the program are thoroughly prepared for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) examination, a critical step toward becoming a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification exam administered by NBCOT School Performance (nbcot.org). Passing this exam grants the graduate the COTA credential, signifying their readiness to practice in the field.
All states, including California, require licensure to practice as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, with licensure criteria often based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination. Licensure requirements vary by state, and many include completing a fingerprint and background check process. In California, as well as other states, this process may uncover findings that could impact eligibility for licensure. Prospective students are encouraged to contact NBCOT Occupational Therapy Certification, California Board of Occupational Therapy Board of Occupational Therapy (ca.gov), or the regulatory body in the state where they intend to practice to address any concerns.
** Felony Disclosure: A felony conviction may impact an applicant's eligibility to sit for the NBCOT certification exam or obtain state licensure. Applicants are required to contact NBCOT before applying to the OTA program if the applicant has a felony conviction. NBCOT Occupational Therapy Certification
In California, applicants for licensure must meet the following requirements:
- Successfully pass the NBCOT Certification Examination.
- Complete the fingerprint and background check process.
- Fulfill all state-specific application requirements as determined by California Board of Occupational Therapy Board of Occupational Therapy (ca.gov).
Graduates are encouraged to review the licensure requirements for the state in which they plan to practice to ensure full compliance.