Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA/L) responsibilities include managing a caseload of clients using evidence-based/ person centered principles to develop, implement and coordinate an occupational therapy program under the supervision of an OTR/L.  This individual will provide screenings, assist with evaluations and writing of treatment plans and progress notes as directed by the OTR/L.  Service provisions may include direct, monitored and consultative approaches.  Problems that arise in the treatment program are expected to be resolved independently.  The COTA will maintain a caseload of 80% utilization providing OT services to clients.   The COTA will be trained in ABA and may fill in for the ABA department if there is need.  Departmental direction is received from the OTR and Rehabilitation Team Lead. 

Essential Functions:  

• Provide screenings, assist OTR/L with evaluations as needed and direct therapy to clients in a 1:1 medical model under the guidance of an OTR/L ensuring goals and objectives are being met 

• Document therapy services accurately and timely in accordance with facility and Federal Regulations (i.e. daily service notes, assessments, treatment plans and doctor orders for services, communications, client information, reporting parent and Partners communications and client information and etc.) 

• Work with supervision to provide direct therapy using skills, techniques and expectations detailed in AOTA Scope of Practice, Standard of Practice and facility policies and procedures  

• Complete the required technical training and participates in ongoing training opportunities 

• Redirect, intervene, observe, and monitor client behaviors 

• Communicate effectively with all staff members  

• Make sound decisions and use good judgment when dealing with clients, parents, and coworkers 

• Demonstrate dependability and consistency in therapy and other job-related activities 

• Communicate daily progress and client concerns to the appropriate staff members 

• Communicates and works with all member of the treatment team and shares information with team members in formal and informal settings, i.e. rehab rounds 

• Organize and clean therapy space and equipment 

• Assist in keeping the facility safe, organized, sanitary, and guide others to do the same 

• Conduct various assessments as deemed appropriate 

• Guide treatment team, in collaboration with OTR/L on how to properly implement and carryover OT goals in the PODS 

• Assist clients with personal care including: dressing, toileting, personal hygiene, food, nutrition, and diet needs 

• Attend and participate in meetings  

• Report all safety concerns to the Safety Director or his/her direct supervisor 

• Formally and informally mentor newly hired staff 

• Provide in-service trainings to staff as directed or requested 

• Provides direct therapy through various activities 

• Promotes an awareness of the OT role to parents and Partners staff 

• Assist with interviews and selecting applicants for hire in the OT Department 

• Meet the physical demands listed below. 

• Other duties as assigned 

Required Education and Experience: 

• Associate Degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant  

• Acquire and maintain active membership with National Board Certification of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) 

• General knowledge of typical and special needs clients 

• Successfully pass an initial and subsequent background checks (no history of felonies, substantiated client maltreatment or vulnerable adult incidents, or disqualifying misdemeanors)  

• Must have some experience and be interested in working with children and possess the interpersonal skills to be playful, enthusiastic, and bring a high level of energy into the therapeutic situation 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Experience working with individuals with autism. 

• Valid driver’s license  

Salary : $27 - $37