26-27 SPED Occupational Therapy Assistant

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Provide direct occupational therapy services under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist.

Education/Certification: Associate's degree in occupational therapy or equivalent. Valid Texas license as an occupational therapy assistant issued by the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners (TBOTE).

Special Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: Ability to implement occupational therapy treatment programs as specified by occupational therapy plan of care. Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written).

Experience: Two months experience in occupational therapy and contact with school-age children.

Major Responsibilities and Duties: Provide occupation therapy services as specified in the occupational therapy plan of care. Collect data according to established procedures to assist occupational therapist in screening. Assist occupational therapist to revise short-term patient goals. Assist with instructing teachers, staff, and parents in use of adaptive equipment, assistive technology programs or devices, and integration of therapy goals into the educational program. Interact with student patient regarding patient's condition, progress, and/or achievement of goals during each treatment session. Communicate with parents regarding individual students as directed by the occupational therapist. Attend planning meetings and participate in Admission, Review, and Dismissal Committee (ARD) meetings as directed by the occupational therapist. Assist with acquisition and maintenance of therapy equipment and supplies. Compile, maintain, and file reports, records, and other documents required including accurate student records and patient progress notes. Comply with policies established by federal and state laws, Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiner, State Board of Education rule, and board policy. Comply with all district and campus routines and regulations. Maintain confidentiality. Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors: Tools/Equipment Used: Special needs adaptive equipment; standard office equipment including computer and peripherals. Posture: Frequent standing, sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting. Motion: Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension. Lifting: Regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and position of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint; assisting nonambulatory students. Environment: Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases; may require districtwide travel. Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work prolonged or irregular hours.

Education Service Center Region 12