Occupational Therapist Assistants

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.

Job Task

• Alter treatment programs to obtain better results if treatment is not having the intended effect.
• Assemble, clean, and maintain equipment and materials for patient use.
• Design, fabricate, and repair assistive devices and make adaptive changes to equipment and environments.
• Demonstrate therapy techniques, such as manual and creative arts, and games.
• Evaluate the daily living skills and capacities of physically, developmentally or emotionally disabled clients.
• Implement, or assist occupational therapists with implementing, treatment plans designed to help clients function independently.
• Instruct, or assist in instructing, patients and families in home programs, basic living skills, and the care and use of adaptive equipment.
• Monitor patients' performance in therapy activities, providing encouragement.
• Observe and record patients' progress, attitudes, and behavior, and maintain this information in client records.
• Order any needed educational or treatment supplies.
• Report to supervisors, verbally or in writing, on patients' progress, attitudes and behavior.
• Select therapy activities to fit patients' needs and capabilities.
• Work under the direction of occupational therapists to plan, implement and administer educational, vocational, and recreational programs that restore and enhance performance in individuals with functional impairments.
• Assist educational specialists or clinical psychologists in administering situational or diagnostic tests to measure client's abilities or progress.
• Aid patients in dressing and grooming themselves.
• Maintain and promote a positive attitude toward clients and their treatment programs.
• Perform clerical duties such as scheduling appointments, collecting data, and documenting health insurance billings.
• Teach patients how to deal constructively with their emotions.
• Transport patients to and from the occupational therapy work area.

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