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Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Decatur, GA

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Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant information

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How much do certified occupational therapy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified occupational therapy assistant in Decatur, GA is $31.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.73 and $35.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do as an OTA?

A Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) works under the supervision of an occupational therapist to help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. They implement treatment plans, assist with therapeutic activities, and monitor patient progress in settings such as hospitals, clinics, or rehabilitation centers. COTAs also need to have good communication skills and typically use tools like therapeutic exercises and adaptive equipment.

How much do OTA make?

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) typically earn an average annual salary of around $60,000, though this can vary based on experience, location, and work setting. In some regions, salaries may range from $50,000 to $70,000, and additional certifications or specialties can influence pay rates.

What is the difference between Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant vs Occupational Therapist?

AspectCertified Occupational Therapy AssistantOccupational Therapist
CredentialsAssociate's degree, NBCOT certificationBachelor's, master's or doctoral degree, NBCOT certification
Work EnvironmentAssist in therapy sessions under supervision, clinics, hospitals, schoolsLead therapy plans, evaluate patients, supervise assistants, clinics, hospitals, schools
Job RoleImplement treatment plans, assist patients with activitiesDevelop treatment plans, evaluate patient progress, oversee assistants

The main difference between a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant and an Occupational Therapist lies in their education, responsibilities, and level of independence. Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants support therapists by implementing treatment plans and assisting patients, while Occupational Therapists develop plans and oversee patient care. Both roles work in similar environments, but the Occupational Therapist holds a higher level of responsibility and requires advanced education.

Where do OTAs get paid the most?

Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare services. Typically, metropolitan areas and states with robust healthcare industries offer the highest pay for OTAs, especially those with specialized skills or certifications. Salary can also vary based on experience, work setting, and employer type.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), you need an associate degree from an accredited program and national certification, along with strong knowledge of rehabilitation techniques and patient care. Familiarity with therapy documentation software, adaptive equipment, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is typically required. Excellent communication, empathy, and teamwork skills help COTAs effectively support patients and collaborate with occupational therapists. These skills and qualities ensure effective therapy delivery, accurate reporting, and positive outcomes for clients' daily living and independence.

How do Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants typically collaborate with occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals in a clinical setting?

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) work closely under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists to implement treatment plans tailored for each patient. They frequently collaborate with occupational therapists by providing feedback on patient progress and suggesting adjustments to interventions. Additionally, COTAs may interact with physical therapists, speech therapists, nurses, and family members to ensure holistic and coordinated care. This teamwork-focused environment helps ensure patients receive comprehensive support as they work toward their rehabilitation goals.

What Does a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant Do?

A certified occupational therapy assistant helps patients during physical therapy treatments and rehabilitation exercises. They work with the patient's occupational therapist and physician to develop a treatment plan that fits the patient's needs. This can mean assisting with stretching exercises or helping a patient learn and adjust to assistance equipment. The duties and responsibilities of a certified occupational therapy assistant also include keeping detailed records of patient progress and health, and performing other administrative and organizational tasks.

What is a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)?

A Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of an occupational therapist to help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. COTAs assist with implementing treatment plans, educating patients and their families, and documenting patient progress. They work with individuals of all ages who have physical, developmental, or emotional challenges, supporting them to achieve greater independence in their daily activities.

Can OT help with hypermobility?

A Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) can support individuals with hypermobility by developing strategies to improve joint stability, reduce pain, and enhance daily function. They may use therapeutic exercises, activity modifications, and assistive devices as part of treatment planning under the supervision of an occupational therapist. Proper assessment and tailored interventions are essential for managing hypermobility effectively.
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Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Southern Regional Medical Center

Riverdale, GA • On-site

$25.75 - $34.25/hr

Per diem

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Overview
Shift's Available: Days
Employment Type: PRN
Hours: 8 hours
Location: Southern Regional Medical Center - Riverdale, GA
We are seeking a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), sometimes referred to as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) or Occupational Therapist Assistant. Our Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant will work under the direction of a licensed Occupational Therapist. The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant helps patients improve their ability to complete everyday activities, regain independence, and safely progress through recovery after illness, injury, surgery, or hospitalization.
Responsibilities
Essential Duties and Responsibilities (includes, but not limited to):
  • Within scope of practice and under the direction and supervision of the Occupational Therapist, provides prescribed therapeutic services in order to restore and prevent disability for clients, or patients with musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, and cardiopulmonary disorders.
  • Performs responsibilities in accordance with departmental and Hospital policies, state and federal regulatory requirements: Title 22 Section 70517, 70519.
  • Provide occupational therapy treatments according to established plans of care
  • Assist patients with mobility, coordination, strength, and daily living activities
  • Monitor patient progress and communicate changes to the Occupational Therapist and care team
  • Educate and support patients and families throughout the rehabilitation process
  • Provides prescribed therapy services to help restore function and prevent disability while following hospital policies and regulatory requirements

Qualifications
Education and Work Experience
  1. Association Degree (COTA) from an accredited program.
  2. Current state Occupational Therapy certification.
  3. Current BCLS (AHA) certificate upon hire and maintain current.
  4. National Board for Certification Occupational Therapy certification, AOTA and OTAC membership preferred.

Full benefits at Prime Healthcare: https://www.primehealthcare.com/careers/benefits/
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Employment Status
Per Diem
Shift
Days
Equal Employment Opportunity
Company is an equal employment opportunity employer. Company prohibits discrimination against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (subject to applicable law), disability, military status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. Know Your Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf