Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) are vital to rehabilitation. They work closely with OTs to perform practical therapeutic activities, monitor progress, collaborate with healthcare professionals, educate clients and their families, and adjust treatment plans.
This role requires strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to patient health. Opportunities for career advancement include specialization in telehealth and pediatrics.
Explore the pathway below to learn more.
Pathways are the various job options within a career that share common skills, knowledge, and interests. In addition to the popular pathways below, COTA pathways include:
- Advancing to become Occupational Therapists (OTs)
- Specializing in pediatrics, hand therapy, or geriatrics
- Engaging in research
- Transitioning into healthcare administration.
Here is a snapshot of popular COTA pathways in the Charlotte Metropolitan area. Select the title for more details.
COTA's work is under the guidance and supervision of an occupational therapist (OT). To move up in this field requires a Master's Degree (OT) or Ph.D. (ODT). Some programs are designed to allow people to work as COTAs while studying for their Master's or Ph.D.
Certifications*
- Core: Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Specialty: Functional Training Specialty Certification
*Certifications vary depending on chosen specialty.
COTA's work is under the guidance and supervision of an occupational therapist (OT). To move up in this field requires a Master's Degree (OT) or Ph.D. (ODT). Some programs are designed to allow people to work as COTAs while studying for their Master's or Ph.D.
Certifications*
- Core: Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Specialty: Functional Training Specialty Certification
*Certifications vary depending on chosen specialty.
