OT vs OTA

Occupational Therapists (OT) and occupational therapy assistants (OTA) are all integral parts of occupational therapy. Occupational therapy offers great avenues for growth and is a great profession with ever increasing demand. The profession offers big growth opportunities, work satisfaction and great pay. Let compare OT vs OTA.

This post highlights the major similarities and differences between OT vs OTA. It points out the differences in professional responsibilities and educational levels

What is a Registered Occupational Therapist?

Occupational therapy is the science of directing an individual’s participation in certain activities for the purpose of restoring, reinforcing and OT vs OTA enhancing performance in their occupation. The occupational therapist helps his/her patient to learn new skills and functions that are essential for daily living. There are also various types of jobs available in OT, from pediatrics to mental health.

What is an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)?

An OTA is a professional whose job involves assisting an occupational therapist in implementing treatment plans and making reports.

Professional Responsibilities of OT and OTA

An occupational therapy Assistant (OTA) works under the supervision of an occupational therapist (OT). The OT is responsible for the overall delivery of services to an individual. The overall supervision given by the OT changes over time as the OTA gains experience.

Responsibility in Evaluation and Intervention

The OT is primarily responsible for the evaluation and assessment process; however, the OTA may rely on their experience to gather preliminary data through observation. Once the assessment is done, both the OT and OTA work in collaboration to develop an intervention plan based on their results. The OTA knows about the activities prescribed by the OT and implements it to the client.

While the OTA can contribute to the evaluation process, he/she cannot evaluate or initiate treatment independently prior to the evaluation. An OTA can also contribute to the development of the intervention plan and also monitor and document how an individual is responding to intervention under the supervision of the OT.

The OT and OTA often work together as a team, communicating and collaborating with each other.

OTA assists in daily notes writing, goal planning and documentation. OT vs OTA

An OTA is allowed to expand their role by establishing competency in service delivery. This refers to the ability to use a specified intervention in a reliable, effective and safe manner.

Collaboration

Collaboration is a crucial element in the successful relationship between an OT and an OTA. Both the OT and OTA are responsible for frequently communicating regarding the status of a client and ongoing treatment. The OT will design the program together with the OTA, which is then executed by the OTA. Therefore, it is important to consider certain tips when pursuing a career in OT.

Bottom Line

There are many benefits to working in occupational therapy. Understanding the difference between OT vs OTA paints a picture of the differences between the jobs and career paths. Both work together to achieve the same results for their patients. In a real sense, the OTA cuts down the stress and responsibility of an OT. Nonetheless, they’re both an integral part of occupational therapy.