Occupational Therapy Aides
Occupational therapy aides assist occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants by performing delegated tasks that support patient treatment. They work in hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, clinics, and other healthcare settings. Their responsibilities include preparing treatment rooms, organizing materials, and helping patients get ready for therapy sessions.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against occupational therapy aides and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves setting up treatment spaces with equipment and supplies, helping patients move to and from therapy areas, and cleaning or organizing materials between sessions. Aides assist with patient hygiene or comfort as directed by supervising therapists. They may document basic information about patient activities or materials used during treatment. Work occurs in healthcare facilities during standard business hours, often involving hands-on support for patients with various physical or developmental needs.
Who this work suits
Holland code SRC. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this role if you enjoy direct, practical help with people and prefer hands-on work over desk tasks. You're reliable with routines and follow instructions carefully, and you find satisfaction in supporting others' recovery and progress in a structured healthcare environment.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $47,490 | $66,190 | $76,190 | 250 |
| New York | $37,960 | $46,220 | $59,130 | 250 |
| Washington | $38,550 | $45,890 | $52,000 | 190 |
| Nebraska | $39,950 | $44,980 | $46,400 | 90 |
| Connecticut | $40,250 | $44,840 | $46,690 | 110 |
| New Jersey | $41,750 | $44,470 | $46,270 | — |
| California | $39,140 | $43,480 | $44,980 | 330 |
| New Mexico | $41,600 | $43,170 | $75,560 | 50 |
| Massachusetts | $35,340 | $40,160 | $42,820 | 90 |
| Colorado | $39,230 | $40,110 | $55,230 | 40 |
| District of Columbia | $39,620 | $39,620 | $45,840 | — |
| Michigan | $37,630 | $39,050 | $46,780 | 60 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR) — National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc.
- Certification in Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT) — International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine - US
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against occupational therapy aides and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 31-2012.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.