1

Student Occupational Therapy Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Overview If you're a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) who wants to empower patients to achieve meaningful outcomes through compassionate and patient-centered therapy--this is it. In ...

Overview If you're a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) who wants to empower patients to achieve meaningful outcomes through compassionate and patient-centered therapy-this is it. In ...

Overview If you're a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) who wants to empower patients to achieve meaningful outcomes through compassionate and patient-centered therapy--this is it. In ...

Overview If you're a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) who wants to empower patients to achieve meaningful outcomes through compassionate and patient-centered therapy--this is it. In ...

Overview If you're a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) who wants to empower patients to achieve meaningful outcomes through compassionate and patient-centered therapy-this is it. In ...

Overview If you're a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) who wants to empower patients to achieve meaningful outcomes through compassionate and patient-centered therapy-this is it. In ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Student Occupational Therapy Assistant information

What is a student occupational therapy assistant?

Student Occupational Therapy Assistants are individuals who are enrolled in an accredited occupational therapy assistant (OTA) program and are in the process of completing their education and clinical training. They work under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists or certified occupational therapy assistants during their fieldwork experiences. Their primary role is to learn how to assist patients in developing or recovering skills needed for daily living and working, using therapeutic activities and exercises. Student OTAs gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, preparing them for certification and eventual employment as OTAs.

How does a student occupational therapy assistant typically collaborate with supervising occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals during clinical placements?

During clinical placements, Student Occupational Therapy Assistants work closely with supervising occupational therapists to develop and implement treatment plans for clients. They often assist in conducting therapeutic activities, documenting patient progress, and adjusting interventions based on feedback. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists, nurses, and speech-language pathologists, is common to ensure a holistic approach to patient care. These experiences help students build teamwork and communication skills essential for future practice.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a student occupational therapy assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Student Occupational Therapy Assistant, you need foundational knowledge of human anatomy, therapeutic techniques, and an associate degree from an accredited OTA program. Familiarity with documentation software and adaptive equipment is typically required, along with pursuing certification such as the NBCOT COTA exam. Strong interpersonal communication, empathy, and teamwork skills help in supporting patients and collaborating with licensed occupational therapists. These competencies ensure effective patient care, accurate record-keeping, and successful integration into clinical environments.

What is the difference between Student Occupational Therapy Assistant vs Occupational Therapy Assistant?

AspectStudent Occupational Therapy AssistantOccupational Therapy Assistant
CredentialsEnrolled in an accredited OTA program, typically not certifiedCertified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) with licensure or registration
Work EnvironmentSupervised clinical or fieldwork settings, educational placementsFull-time employment in clinics, hospitals, or schools
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, internship sitesHealthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding training requirements, entry-level rolesJob responsibilities, certification, and career progression

The main difference is that a Student Occupational Therapy Assistant is still in training and not yet certified, while an Occupational Therapy Assistant is a licensed professional actively working in healthcare settings. Students gain practical experience during their education, whereas certified OTAs provide direct patient care.

What job categories do people searching Student Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Student Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Student Occupational Therapy Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Student Occupational Therapy Assistant job openings:

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Saluda, VA โ€ข On-site

Riverside Health System
Hospitalsย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

$28.90 - $39.78/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Saluda, Virginia
Hiring Range
$28.90 - $39.78/HourlyActual pay is determined based on job-related factors such as relevant experience, education, credentials, skills, internal equity, and business needs.
Overview
Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) carries out an individualized program for patient with acute and chronic health conditions to maximize their quality of life and achieve their functional goals. Maintains a positive working relationship with other health professionals and ancillary staff.
What you will do
  • Follows the plan of care and performs COTA procedures as allowed by referral to aid in restoring function, improving mobility, relieving pain, and preventing or limiting permanent physical disabilities. Perform services planned, delegated and supervised by the Therapist.
  • Prepares treatment areas to include setting up equipment. Cleans treatment areas and equipment.
  • Assists and participates in the training and support of all team members, volunteers and students.
  • Records patients' progress and reports the results of each treatment to the Occupational Therapist.
  • Assists in the evaluation of patients' daily living skills and capacities to determine extent of abilities and limitations. Assesses patients' needs and status by analyzing evaluated data and interprets information, identifying age-specific needs and proving care accordingly.
  • Provides patient education on interventions.

Qualifications
Education
  • Associates Degree, Occupational Therapy Assistant (Required) or
  • Program Graduate, Occupational Therapy Assistant (Required)

Experience
  • 1 year Occupational Therapy (Preferred)

Licenses and Certifications
  • Licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy Inc (NBCOT) Upon Hire(Required) and
  • Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) - Virginia Department of Health Professions (VDHP) Upon Hire(Required) and
  • CPR/BLS Certification - American Heart Association/American Red Cross/American Safety and Health Institute (AHA/ARC) within 30 Days(Required)

To learn more about being a team member with Riverside Health System visit us at https://www.riversideonline.com/careers.