Occupational Therapy Assistant, COTA, Home Health

As a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) at InHome Therapy in Austin, your primary responsibilities will include collaborating with occupational therapists to implement treatment plans, conducting patient assessments, and providing one-on-one therapy in the patient's home environment. You'll have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with patients, helping them improve their daily skills. Additionally, you'll be responsible for documenting progress and adjusting therapies as needed, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care.

To be considered for the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant position at InHome Therapy, you must have successfully completed a program approved by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. It's essential to hold a current Texas state therapist license and a CPR certificate. Proficiency in using technological devices, such as tablets for electronic documentation, is also required, though we are happy to provide training as needed to meet our standards.

InHome Therapy offers a range of fantastic benefits for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. You can expect competitive compensation of $40/hr to $49/hr per visit, flexible work hours to create your own schedule, and comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits. Additionally, you will have access to long-term disability insurance, life insurance, a 401(k) plan, PTO, mileage reimbursement, and ongoing training and development opportunities to support your career growth.

At InHome Therapy, we prioritize the professional development of our Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants. We offer comprehensive training programs to ensure that you are well-prepared to deliver top-notch therapy. New COTAs will benefit from shadowing experienced therapists, and our concierge-level clinical and administrative support will be available to assist you whenever you need. We believe that ongoing education and mentorship are key components to success in this field, helping you grow both personally and professionally.

Working as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant at InHome Therapy stands out because we are dedicated to being the most therapist-centric home care organization in the country. We exclusively hire and support therapists at all levels of leadership, ensuring that your unique needs as a COTA are understood and valued. Our focus on creating a flexible, supportive environment allows you to thrive professionally while providing personalized care to patients, making a significant impact on their daily lives.

When developing a treatment plan as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, I focus on assessing the patient’s individual needs alongside the supervising occupational therapist. Collaboration is key; I ensure that the goals are patient-centered and achievable, considering their personal circumstances and preferences, which fosters a sense of ownership in their recovery journey.

In dealing with a difficult patient, I emphasize understanding their feelings and frustrations. I once had a patient who was resistant due to pain. I took time to listen to their concerns and adjusted our sessions to incorporate rest periods and achievable goals, which eventually allowed them to open up and engage more positively in therapy.

Building rapport with patients requires active listening, empathy, and genuine interest in their well-being. I always aim to communicate openly, asking about their hobbies and interests to find common ground. Creating a comfortable environment helps patients feel more at ease, which encourages better cooperation during therapy.

If a patient is not responding well, it’s essential to reassess their needs and preferences. I would communicate with the supervising occupational therapist to brainstorm adjustments. This might involve modifying activities, introducing new strategies, or pacing the session differently to enhance engagement and outcomes.

Technology plays a significant role in my daily tasks as a COTA. I regularly use tablets for documentation, accessing treatment plans, and communicating with healthcare teams. Being comfortable with these tools enhances efficiency and improves the overall therapy experience for both the patient and me.

To prioritize tasks effectively during home visits, I always prepare a checklist before my visits, based on the treatment plan and the patient's goals. Time management involves setting clear objectives for each session and being adaptable to any changes that occur. I stay organized and ensure that I maximize the time spent with each patient.

When educating patients and families, I utilize clear, simple language and practical demonstrations. Visual aids can be incredibly helpful as well. Involving families in the therapy process creates a supportive environment and reinforces the activities they can practice at home.

I stay updated on current trends in occupational therapy by attending seminars and webinars, subscribing to reputable journals, and participating in professional networks. Engaging with fellow COTAs allows for the sharing of knowledge and experiences, which is invaluable for continuous learning.

I view feedback as an invaluable part of my professional development. When I receive feedback from my supervising occupational therapist, I take time to reflect on it and ask for clarification if needed. This openness to learn helps me improve my techniques and better understand my role.

The most rewarding aspect of being a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant is witnessing the tangible progress my patients make in their daily lives. When I see them achieve their goals or regain confidence, it's a powerful reminder of the positive impact therapy can have. It motivates me to continually strive for excellence in my practice.