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OT professionals, including Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs), are extensively trained to address a wide range of patient needs, from basic motor skills to complex cognitive functions. When patients present in clinical settings with conditions or disabilities that affect their ability to perform daily tasks, these experts come prepared with the knowledge and experience to make a difference. It’s a job that’s never boring, and a career field that’s highly rewarding.
Whether it’s children with developmental disorders like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) who need assistance in developing social and life skills, or adults recovering from neurological conditions like ischemic strokes, the work that happens in OT has a real, measurable impact on improving quality of life.
Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants often work with a broad patient population, offering everything from pediatric to geriatric care for individuals with physical and cognitive conditions like:
- Cerebral Palsy
- Down Syndrome
- Strokes and Mini-Strokes
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Developmental Delays
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Learning Disabilities
- Sensory Processing Disorders
- Mental Health Issues, including Anxiety and Depression
- Chronic Pain Conditions
- Arthritis and Joint Disorders
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Amputations and Limb Differences
- Visual or Auditory Impairments
- Age-Related Conditions Affecting the Elderly
Like many health careers, Occupational Therapy is tailored to the specific needs of each patient to address the unique challenges and achievements each case presents. These healthcare workers need to be creative and knowledgeable to treat a wide range of often complex cases. For example, an elderly patient recovering from an above-the-elbow amputation and a pediatric patient diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder might have a similar goal of independent self-feeding, but the strategies and adaptive tools used in each session would vary greatly between the two individuals.
Conditions that Benefit from OT
For those facing physical challenges, OT offers an opportunity to improve mobility and accessibility with exercises and activities that easily translate to the home. Patients diagnosed with early dementia often benefit from engaging cognitive activities, like puzzles or “brain games”, to boost memory and problem-solving skills.
When young patients are diagnosed with developmental disabilities, an OT and OT Assistant might work together to address gross motor delays, strengthening balance and agility while also nurturing emerging social skills and healthy coping mechanisms. These early OT interventions are designed to help the child better integrate into educational settings and social circles, ultimately leading to more satisfaction in daily life.
More than physical and cognitive support, clinical sessions also provide crucial support for mental well-being, helping individuals manage stress and build resilience to internal feelings of dysregulation. For patients of every age, it’s about maintaining autonomy and quality of life using a holistic approach that not only addresses specific conditions but also enriches the overall well-being of patients.
If you’re considering an Occupational Therapy Assistant Program, it’s a career choice that could lead to a fulfilling and impactful career. Occupational therapy is a field dedicated to helping individuals with physical, developmental, and emotional challenges establish or re-acquire independence in all areas of their lives. With an Associate’s degree, graduates are qualified to work as Occupational Therapy Assistants under the supervision of qualified Occupational Therapists providing direct therapeutic care to patients. You would be involved in implementing treatment plans, assisting patients in exercises and activities, and monitoring their progress.
Academic programs at St. Louis College of Health Careers will prepare you to work in Occupational Therapy with rigorous course offerings, access to advanced technologies, and the support of a highly rated faculty team. Start your application or call 866-529-2070 today to learn more about our Healthcare Associates Degree Programs.