Key Traits of Occupational Therapy Assistants

As you consider or pursue a career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA), you’re stepping into a rewarding field that profoundly impacts people’s lives. Whether exploring OTA programs or already immersed in your studies, cultivating certain traits will help you in your education. Below are six key traits that will help you through any occupational therapy assistant program. 

Compassion and Empathy: The heart of occupational therapy is the desire to help others. OTA students who thrive possess a deep sense of empathy, allowing them to learn to connect with their clients on a personal level. They know how to understand clients’ challenges and approach each interaction with kindness and understanding. 

Strong Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential for OTA students to collaborate with clients, their families, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals like nurses, physical therapists, and speech therapists. They should practice excellence in verbal and non-verbal communication, listening attentively, and conveying information clearly and concisely. 

Adaptability and Flexibility: Every client’s journey is unique, requiring OTA students to learn to adapt their approach to meet individual needs and circumstances. They must learn to demonstrate flexibility, adjust their strategies as needed, and embrace change with resilience and positivity. 

Attention to Detail: From assessing clients’ progress to documenting progress in treatment plans, OTA students must pay close attention to detail in their work. They should be meticulous in their observations and documentation, ensuring accuracy and precision in their practice. 

Problem-Solving Abilities: Occupational therapy often involves overcoming challenges and finding creative solutions to improve clients’ daily functioning. OTA students should possess strong problem-solving skills, think critically and innovatively to address barriers and achieve meaningful client outcomes. 

Team Collaboration: OTA students will learn to work closely with occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals to care for their clients. They should value collaboration and teamwork, actively contributing to interdisciplinary teams and fostering positive collaborative relationships. 

Becoming an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) requires more than technical skills—it demands a unique blend of compassion, communication, adaptability, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork.  

Learn more about Stanbridge University’s OTA program and how you can become an OTA today!