An occupational therapist assistant assists the occupational therapist to provide therapy treatments for physically, developmentally, or emotionally disabled patients. The occupational therapist assistant will help to develop treatment plans, perform routine tasks, and document the treatments’ progress.

Occupational Therapist Assistant Job Description Template

We are looking for a competent occupational therapist assistant to assist the occupational therapist in providing therapy treatments and procedures for our patients. The occupational therapist assistant’s responsibilities include helping in the development of treatment plans, performing routine functions, documenting patients’ progress, and maintaining client records. The occupational therapist assistant attempts to help people perform the tasks they need or want to do by using everyday activities as therapy.

To be a successful occupational therapist assistant, you should have strong interpersonal, communication, and teaching skills. You should be perceptive about others’ reactions and have good critical thinking and decision-making skills.

Occupational Therapist Assistant Responsibilities:

  • Evaluating the living skills and capabilities of physically, developmentally, and emotionally disabled patients.
  • Assisting in the selection of activities and the development of treatment plans to help patients to function independently.
  • Observing, monitoring, and recording patients’ progress, attitudes, and behavior, providing feedback to superiors, and recommending changes to their treatment plans.
  • Maintaining a positive attitude towards patients and the treatment programs.
  • Instructing patients and their families in-home programs, basic living skills, and the care and use of adaptive equipment.
  • Helping patients with dressing and grooming, and using specially designed hairbrushes and cosmetic applicators.
  • Performing basic administrative tasks, such as answering phones and making appointments.
  • Performing routine tasks, such as helping patients perform stretches and teaching patients to use specific equipment.
  • Using a variety of tools and equipment, such as special lifts or pulleys to move patients.
  • Designing, making, and repairing assistive devices and making changes to equipment and environments.

Occupational Therapist Assistant Requirements:

  • An associate’s degree in occupational therapy.
  • A license and certification to practice therapy.
  • Willingness to continue your education.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and teaching skills.
  • Good critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Social perceptiveness and persuasion skills.
  • Physical stamina to lift and assist patients through physical activities.