Occupational therapy aides support therapists in helping clients regain independence and improve daily functioning. The work is hands-on, directly with people, and you can start with a high school diploma. Here is what the role involves, what preparation looks like, and how to get in.
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As an occupational therapy aide, you assist occupational therapists and clients during treatment sessions. You help clients practice exercises and activities designed to build skills for daily living, work, and leisure. You communicate with supervisors and peers about client progress, document observations, and maintain a safe, clean treatment environment. You establish supportive relationships with clients, listen actively to their needs, and perform physical tasks like setting up equipment or helping clients move safely. Your work bridges the gap between the therapist's plan and the client's real-world progress.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Occupational Therapy Aides earn a median of $39,160 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 3 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 600 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most occupational therapy aides enter the field with a high school diploma or equivalent and learn on the job. Some employers prefer or require certification, which typically involves coursework in anatomy, patient care, and therapeutic techniques, followed by an exam. You will develop knowledge in therapy and counseling, psychology, customer service, and computers. Strong speaking and listening skills help you communicate with clients and the therapy team. Many aides start as entry-level support staff and gain experience through direct work with clients and feedback from licensed therapists.
Entry routes vary by employer and region, with some positions requiring certification and others offering on-the-job training. If you are exploring whether certification makes sense for your timeline and goals, Pathly can map the occupational therapy aide path that fits you and work through the options with your counselor.
Many occupational therapy aides must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You are drawn to helping others and working directly with people. You listen well, think critically about how to support clients, and communicate clearly with both clients and colleagues.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).