About this role
About Company:
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Creekside staff draw from a variety of evidence-based approaches and therapeutic interventions to fit the individual needs of each child.
About the Role:
The Senior Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant plays a critical role in supporting the delivery of occupational therapy services within educational settings, focusing on helping students develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and academic success. This position involves collaborating closely with occupational therapists, educators, families, and other professionals to implement individualized therapy plans tailored to each student's unique needs. The role requires a deep understanding of developmental, physical, and cognitive challenges that students may face, ensuring interventions are both effective and appropriate within the school environment. The Senior Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant also provides mentorship and guidance to junior staff, contributing to the continuous improvement of therapy services. Ultimately, this position aims to enhance students' functional abilities, promote independence, and support their overall educational experience and well-being.
Minimum Qualifications:
* Certification as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) from an accredited program. * Current state licensure or certification to practice as an Occupational Therapy Assistant in the United States. * Minimum of 3 years of experience working as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, preferably within educational or pediatric settings. * Strong knowledge of developmental disabilities, sensory integration, and therapeutic techniques applicable to school-aged children. * Ability to communicate effectively with students, families, educators, and healthcare professionals.
Preferred Qualifications:
* Experience working in educational services or school-based occupational therapy programs. * Additional training or certification in pediatric occupational therapy or sensory integration therapy. * Experience mentoring or supervising junior staff members. * Familiarity with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and special education regulations. * Proficiency in using electronic health records and therapy documentation software.
Responsibilities:
* Assist occupational therapists in implementing individualized treatment plans designed to improve students' motor skills, sensory processing, and functional abilities. * Conduct therapeutic activities and exercises under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist to support students' participation in school activities. * Collaborate with teachers, parents, and other school staff to integrate therapy goals into classroom routines and educational programs. * Document student progress, maintain accurate records, and prepare reports to inform treatment adjustments and educational planning. * Provide training and mentorship to junior occupational therapy assistants and support staff to ensure high-quality service delivery. * Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss student progress and contribute to the development of comprehensive support strategies. * Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, ethical standards, and school policies related to occupational therapy services.
Skills:
The required and preferred skills are essential for delivering effective occupational therapy support within the educational environment. Strong communication skills enable the assistant to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and engage families in the therapeutic process. Clinical skills in therapeutic techniques and sensory integration are applied daily to tailor interventions that meet each student's unique needs. Organizational and documentation skills ensure accurate tracking of student progress and compliance with regulatory requirements. Leadership and mentoring abilities help foster a supportive team environment and promote professional development among junior staff.