Occupational therapy assistants, under the supervision of an occupational therapist, work with individuals who have conditions that are mentally, physically, developmentally, or emotionally disabling, and help them develop, recover and maintain daily living and working skills. They not only help clients improve their basic motor functions and reasoning abilities, but also help them learn to compensate for a permanent loss of function. In effect, their goal is to help clients have independent, productive and satisfying lives.

Occupational therapy assistants need patience and strong interpersonal skills to inspire trust and respect from their clients. Ingenuity and imagination in adapting activities to individual needs are assets.

Employment opportunities are expected to increase faster than the average of all occupations due to the anticipated growth in demand for rehabilitation and long-term care services.

The certificate in Pre-Occupational Therapy Assistant prepares students to enter the Occupational Therapy Assistant associate degree curriculum at Trident Technical College through an articulation agreement between the colleges.


SEMESTER CURRICULUM MODEL