As a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), you have the flexibility to specialize in various practice areas. Here are some common career paths for COTAs:
Schools and School Districts: In schools, COTAs assist occupational therapists in helping children of all ages develop the skills they need for optimal educational performance. This includes adapting classroom environments, teaching assistive technology use, and addressing motor, sensory, and cognitive skills.
Home Health Care: COTAs working in home health care deliver rehabilitation services directly to patients in their homes. They focus on improving their quality of life through activities of daily living (ADL) training, mobility exercises, and safety assessments.
Hospitals and Outpatient Rehabilitation Programs: In hospitals and outpatient settings, COTAs collaborate with occupational therapists to provide rehabilitation services to patients recovering from illness or injury. They engage in therapeutic exercises, ADL retraining, and equipment recommendations.
Nursing Homes: In nursing homes and long-term care facilities, COTAs work with older adults to enhance independence, mobility, and daily functioning. They provide ADL training, recommend assistive devices, and modify the physical environment.
Business Ergonomics: Occupational therapists with expertise in business ergonomics help companies create safe and efficient workspaces to prevent workplace injuries. COTAs may assist in assessing ergonomics, recommending modifications, and providing education on injury prevention.
Mental Health: COTAs in mental health settings support individuals with mental, emotional, and behavioral health conditions. They assist in developing coping skills, improving social participation, and facilitating engagement in meaningful activities.
These are just a few examples of the diverse practice areas for COTAs. At TheraEx, we provide medical staffing solutions to COTAs looking for opportunities in these fields and beyond.