Occupational Therapy Assistant Vs. Therapist Assistant
Individuals who help patients implement rehabilitation treatment plans under the direction of occupational therapists are occupational therapy assistants (OTA). Therapist assistants provide help to people who have been diagnosed with mental illness. Jobs related to therapist assistants include mental health aides, psychiatric assistants and social work assistants.
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Considerations
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OTAs must complete an associate degree or certificate program that is accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association. In addition, students must complete fieldwork experience and state licensure requirements. There are no licensing requirements for therapist assistants. Most who work in the field possess a high school education and some college credits.
Features
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The goal of an OTA is to help patients perform daily tasks. They address their physical, mental and social needs, and report changes in patients' conditions to the occupational therapist. Therapist assistants work closely with professionals such as social workers, psychiatrists and counselors to ensure that clients improve their quality of life.
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Benefits
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As of September 2010, the average annual pay for an OTA was $33,178 a year. Individuals who work in a role similar to a therapist assistant, such as a psychiatric assistant, make at least $26,000 a year.
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