OTA Occupational Therapy (OTA)

Explains the profession of occupational therapy, the roles and functions of occupational therapy personnel, the areas of occupational performances and the theoretical basis of using goal-directed activities. Observation in local occupational therapy clinics is scheduled.

Skill development in selected activities, screening and assessments with the emphasis on psychosocial, pediatric and geriatric performance use of equipment, individual and small group teaching, analysis of activities, use of O.T. Frames of Reference and O.T. Frameworks.

Introduction to various health-promoting and inhibiting factors as they relate to occupational therapy practice. Provide training related to one-on-one and group treatment for individuals with psychiatric and/or social impairments. Emphasis on utilizing therapeutic use of self, adapted activities, and the environment as the primary means of promoting psychological well-being and enhancing occupational performance.

Skill development in group processes and didactic interactions. Supervised work experience and interactions with persons who have psychological dysfunctions.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of human movement and biomechanics tailored to the needs of Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs). Students will develop a foundational understanding of kinesiology principles, including muscle function, joint structure, movement patterns, neurosciences and the effects of injury or illness on mobility. Emphasis is placed on applying these concepts to clinical scenarios commonly encountered in occupational therapy practice, with a focus on functional movement and occupation-based interventions.

Identification and description of developmental disabilities and conditions existing from birth or through adulthood. Instruction in occupational therapy theories and treatment for individuals with developmental and learning impairments. Emphasis on therapeutic techniques to enhance occupational performance from birth through adulthood.

Training of transfer techniques, range of motion, inhibition and facilitating techniques. Training in the use of self-maintenance skills and assistive devices. Supervised work experience in a school, hospital or workshop servicing clients with developmental disabilities.

The study of human growth and development from birth through old age. Focus is on a multi-theoretical approach defining organic and environmental determinants of illness vs. wellness. Students explore therapeutic treatment implications related to application of developmental principles in working with various patient populations.

Instruction in occupational therapy theories, assessment and screening and treatment for individuals and physical impairments and high risk medical conditions. Emphasis on use of therapeutic activities to restore, maintain and/or facilitate physical well-being and independence.

Skill development in selected activities with emphasis on work simplification, fabrication of orthotics and routine evaluation procedures. Supervised work experience in a hospital or clinic setting treating individuals with neurological, orthopedic and other medical conditions.

Examination and discussion of the professional roles and responsibilities of the occupational therapy assistant. Includes exploration of traditional and non-traditional roles, certification, conflict resolution, collaboration of OTR and COTA, ethics and legal aspects of treatment.

Supervised field work placement designed to provide in-depth experience in and responsibility for delivery of services to patients/clients. Emphasizes the application of academically-acquired knowledge leading to the performance level expected of an entry-level occupational therapy assistant.

Supervised field work placement designed to provide in-depth experience and responsibility for delivery of services to patients/clients. Emphasizes the application of academically-acquired knowledge leading to the performance level expected of an entry-level occupational therapy assistant.