How to become an occupational therapy assistant

Assist occupational therapists in providing occupational therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, direct activity programs, and document the progress of treatments. Generally requires formal training.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What occupational therapy assistants do

• Instruct, or assist in instructing, patients and families in home programs, basic living skills, or the care and use of adaptive equipment.
• Maintain and promote a positive attitude toward clients and their treatment programs.
• Report to supervisors, verbally or in writing, on patients' progress, attitudes, and behavior.
• Implement, or assist occupational therapists with implementing, treatment plans designed to help clients function independently.
• Monitor patients' performance in therapy activities, providing encouragement.
• Observe and record patients' progress, attitudes, and behavior and maintain this information in client records.

Skills that matter most

• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Reading Comprehension
• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Writing
• Active Learning
• Learning Strategies

Is occupational therapy assistant a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 42% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• Maryland $82,010
• California $81,770
• Texas $81,500
• Nevada $79,510
• Arkansas $78,940

Occupational Therapy Assistants salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.