Anova
Position Summary
The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) supports the implementation of occupational therapy services for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in an educational setting. Working under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist, the COTA helps students develop and strengthen fine motor, sensory processing, self-regulation, and functional life skills to promote participation and success in the school environment.
Key Responsibilities Therapy Implementation
Carry out occupational therapy treatment plans developed by the supervising OT.
Support students in developing fine motor skills, handwriting, visual-motor integration, and self-help skills.
Implement sensory-based activities to improve regulation, focus, and engagement.
Provide interventions that promote independence in daily routines such as dressing, feeding, and hygiene when applicable.
Collaboration & Communication
Work closely with teachers, aides, and other support staff to integrate therapy strategies into the classroom.
Communicate student progress and concerns to the supervising OT and educational team.
Participate in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings as requested by the OT.
Documentation & Compliance
Accurately document therapy sessions, student progress, and observations in accordance with school and district policies.
Maintain compliance with all legal, ethical, and professional standards.
Environment & Equipment
Assist in maintaining therapy materials, sensory equipment, and adaptive tools.
Organize and adapt the therapy environment to meet student needs.
Qualifications Required:
Associate's degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
Current certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Valid state license or registration as required.
Experience working with children, preferably in an educational or pediatric therapy setting.
Preferred:
Experience with students on the autism spectrum.
Knowledge of sensory integration strategies and behavior support techniques.
Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift and move equipment and assist students with mobility as needed.
Ability to work on the floor, kneel, or sit at child-level for extended periods.
Work Environment
School-based setting serving students with autism in self-contained classrooms, inclusion settings, and therapy spaces.
May involve working with students exhibiting challenging behaviors.
Key Responsibilities Therapy Implementation
Carry out occupational therapy treatment plans developed by the supervising OT.
Support students in developing fine motor skills, handwriting, visual-motor integration, and self-help skills.
Implement sensory-based activities to improve regulation, focus, and engagement.
Provide interventions that promote independence in daily routines such as dressing, feeding, and hygiene when applicable.
Collaboration & Communication
Work closely with teachers, aides, and other support staff to integrate therapy strategies into the classroom.
Communicate student progress and concerns to the supervising OT and educational team.
Participate in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings as requested by the OT.
Documentation & Compliance
Accurately document therapy sessions, student progress, and observations in accordance with school and district policies.
Maintain compliance with all legal, ethical, and professional standards.
Environment & Equipment
Assist in maintaining therapy materials, sensory equipment, and adaptive tools.
Organize and adapt the therapy environment to meet student needs.
Qualifications Required:
Associate's degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
Current certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Valid state license or registration as required.
Experience working with children, preferably in an educational or pediatric therapy setting.
Preferred:
Experience with students on the autism spectrum.
Knowledge of sensory integration strategies and behavior support techniques.
Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift and move equipment and assist students with mobility as needed.
Ability to work on the floor, kneel, or sit at child-level for extended periods.
Work Environment
School-based setting serving students with autism in self-contained classrooms, inclusion settings, and therapy spaces.
May involve working with students exhibiting challenging behaviors.