They help clients learn skills needed for day to day activities as well as work activities. They also contribute to completing splints and create or repair assistive devices. They train the clients and caregivers use of wheelchairs and other assistive devices (high- and low-tech).
Average Hourly
$26.01
Range Hourly
$22.67 – $44.21
Average Yearly
$50,710
Range Yearly
$44,207 – $86,208
Other Technical Occupations In Therapy And Assessment ( 3237 )
Occupational therapist assistant
Occupational therapy assistant
Occupational therapy technician
Physical rehabilitation technician
Occupational therapy assistants require completion of a two-year occupational therapy assistant (OTA) college program.
Average hourly |
Range hourly |
Average yearly |
Range yearly |
$26.01 |
$22.67 - $44.21 |
$50,710 |
$44,207 - $86,208 |
Medium
Employment outlook is good to fair across provinces. More information is available here.
Without further education, advancement opportunities for Occupational Therapist Assistants are limited.
0-1 year
Having a diploma in Physiotherapy assistant program from an accredited institution is usually required. Some examples of such programs:
Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant at SAIT
Occupational/Physical Therapist Assistant at Vancouver Community College
Therapist Assistant Program (PTA & OTA Major) at MacEwan University
Occupational Therapist Assistant & Physiotherapist Assistant at Centennial College
Excellent communication skills; empathetic; ability to work independently, Physical and mental stamina; Critical thinking skills, Patience, Flexibility, Organizational skills and attention to detail; Manual dexterity; teamwork
No certification is currently required.
Occupational/Rehabilitation therapist assistants work in a variety of settings including private practices, hospitals, continuing or long-term care facilities, rehabilitation facilities, schools, and private homes. They generally work weekdays but may be required to work some evenings and weekends.
The work can be physically demanding and they need to help clients transfer, stand, walk, and exercise. They may be on their feet for long periods of time. They may also be required to move heavy equipment.
Getting admitted into diploma in Occupational Therapy/Rehabilitation Assistant program.
If not possible, one can start having a certificate program/ on-the-job training as a Rehabilitation aide or assistant, then enter into the Occupational Therapy Assistant program.