How to Become a Traveling Occupational Therapy Assistant

Your guide to a rewarding career with steps, benefits, and tips for success.

Traveling Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) bring their expertise in rehabilitation to various locations, offering essential support to patients who need help regaining independence after injury, illness, or surgery. Unlike traditional OTAs, travel OTAs take their skills on the road, working temporary assignments across the country or even internationally. This career appeals to those who crave adventure, thrive in new environments, and enjoy flexibility in their work schedule.

The demand for OTAs continues to grow, fueled by aging populations and an increased focus on rehabilitative care in diverse healthcare settings. Travel OTAs are particularly sought after as healthcare facilities look to address staffing shortages and meet patient needs with highly qualified professionals. What makes this role uniquely appealing? Beyond providing life-changing care, travel OTAs benefit from the opportunity to explore new places, adapt to various clinical settings, and build a diverse professional network. It’s a career path that combines personal growth with professional fulfillment.

This article is your step-by-step guide to becoming a Traveling OTA, covering everything from educational requirements to tips for finding the right assignments. If you’re looking to embark on this exciting journey, programs like Brookline College’s OTA program provide an excellent foundation for gaining the skills and credentials you’ll need to succeed.

What is a Travel Occupational Therapy Assistant?

Definition and Responsibilities

A Travel Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) is a licensed professional who works under the supervision of an occupational therapist, providing hands-on assistance to patients in improving their daily functioning and independence. Unlike standard OTAs, who typically work in a single location, Travel OTAs take on temporary assignments across various cities, states, or even countries. This dynamic role allows them to combine their professional expertise with the excitement of travel and exposure to diverse healthcare settings.

Key Responsibilities of a Travel OTA:

1. Assisting with Therapy Implementation: Travel OTAs help carry out treatment plans developed by occupational therapists. They guide patients through exercises, activities, and techniques to improve mobility, cognitive skills, and independence.
2. Promoting Patient Independence: Travel OTAs focus on empowering patients to perform everyday tasks, such as dressing, cooking, or using adaptive equipment, to enhance their quality of life.
3. Adapting Therapy to Individual Needs: Every patient is unique. Travel OTAs must tailor therapy plans to address specific conditions and needs, often adjusting their approach to accommodate different cultural, environmental, and clinical contexts.
4. Documentation and Progress Tracking: Keeping detailed records of patient progress and reporting back to the supervising occupational therapist is a critical part of the role.

The Travel Component:

What sets Travel OTAs apart is their mobility. They take on temporary assignments that typically last from a few weeks to several months, often filling gaps in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, rehab centers, schools, or home health agencies. These assignments can span rural towns, bustling cities, or coastal communities, giving Travel OTAs the chance to explore new environments while advancing their careers.

This flexibility not only provides exposure to varied patient populations but also enables Travel OTAs to refine their clinical skills by working in diverse settings, from acute care facilities to outpatient clinics. For those with a sense of adventure and a passion for occupational therapy, this career path offers a unique blend of professional development and personal enrichment.

Benefits of Being a Travel OTA

A career as a traveling occupational therapist assistant (OTA) offers numerous advantages, making it an appealing path for those seeking both professional growth and personal fulfillment. Here are some key benefits:

1. Flexibility

Travel OTAs enjoy the freedom to choose assignments that align with their preferences, whether it’s exploring vibrant cities or working in serene rural settings. This flexibility allows professionals to create a work-life balance that suits their individual needs and goals.

2. Higher Earning Potential

Travel OTAs typically earn more than stationary OTAs due to travel stipends, housing allowances, and other financial perks provided by staffing agencies. This added compensation can significantly enhance overall earnings while covering relocation expenses.

3. Professional Growth

By working in various healthcare environments such as hospitals, rehab centers, and home health settings, travel OTAs gain exposure to diverse patient populations and therapeutic techniques. This experience helps them build a versatile skill set, making them more competitive in the job market and opening doors to advanced career opportunities.

4. Experiencing New Locations

One of the most exciting aspects of being a travel OTA is the opportunity to explore new places while working. Whether it’s enjoying the culture of a bustling metropolis or the tranquility of a small town, travel OTAs can turn their career into an adventure.

5. Building Diverse Skills

Each assignment brings unique challenges and learning opportunities, allowing travel OTAs to expand their expertise in different therapy approaches, adapt to varying healthcare practices, and develop cultural competence. These skills not only enhance their professional capabilities but also enrich their ability to connect with patients from all walks of life.

6. Making a Meaningful Impact

Travel OTAs often work in underserved or rural areas where access to therapy services is limited. By filling critical staffing gaps, they play an essential role in improving patient care and quality of life in communities that need it most.

This dynamic career path offers the perfect blend of adventure, financial rewards, and professional development, making it an excellent choice for those passionate about healthcare and eager to make a difference.

How to Become a Travel Occupational Therapy Assistant

Step 1: Obtain the Required Education

The first step to becoming a Travel Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) is completing a formal education program that equips you with the skills and knowledge to succeed in this rewarding career. To practice as an OTA, you must earn an Associate Degree in Occupational Therapy Assistance from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). This accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous academic and clinical standards, preparing you for professional licensure and real-world challenges.

Why Education Matters

An ACOTE-accredited OTA program provides a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of occupational therapy. The curriculum typically includes:

• Foundational Coursework: Topics such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and psychology to help you understand the human body and mind.
• Therapeutic Techniques: Training in how to assist patients with various conditions, ranging from neurological disorders to physical injuries.
• Hands-On Clinical Training: Supervised fieldwork experiences where you’ll apply your skills in real healthcare settings, preparing you for the day-to-day responsibilities of an OTA.

This combination of classroom learning and practical training is critical for developing the confidence and competence needed to work effectively as part of a healthcare team.

Why Choose Brookline College’s OTA Program?

Brookline College offers an ACOTE-accredited OTA program at the Phoenix, AZ campus. This program is designed to help aspiring OTAs build a solid career foundation. The program combines high-quality instruction with hands-on clinical experiences, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the national licensure exam and your future OTA role. With flexible learning options and a commitment to student success, Brookline College is an excellent choice for those eager to begin their journey toward becoming a Travel OTA.

By earning your degree, you’ll take the first big step toward a fulfilling career that combines your passion for helping others with the excitement of exploring new destinations.

Step 2: Pass the NBCOT Exam

After earning your degree, the next essential step to becoming a Travel Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) is achieving professional certification. This is done by passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) Exam. Certification demonstrates your competence and qualifies you to apply for state licensure, a requirement for practicing as an OTA.

What Is the NBCOT Exam?

The NBCOT exam evaluates your knowledge and skills in occupational therapy practices, ensuring you’re ready to provide quality care to patients. The exam is computer-based and is administered at Prometric Testing Centers. Passing the NBCOT exam earns you the COTA (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant) credential, which is widely recognized across the United States. The test consists of multiple-choice questions and clinical simulations, covering topics like:

• Client assessment and treatment planning
• Intervention techniques
• Professional and ethical responsibilities

How to Prepare for the NBCOT Exam

Success on the NBCOT exam requires thorough preparation. Here are some effective tips and resources:

1. Create a Study Plan: Dedicate a specific amount of time each day to studying, starting at least 2–3 months before your exam date. Break your study sessions into manageable chunks, focusing on one topic or skill at a time.
2. Utilize Study Guides and Practice Exams: Use the NBCOT Official COTA Exam Prep Tools, which include study outlines, practice tests, and review materials. Practice exams are especially valuable for familiarizing yourself with the format and timing of the test.
3. Join Study Groups or Online Communities: Collaborate with peers to share insights, quiz each other, and discuss challenging concepts. Consider joining forums like the NBCOT Study Group on Facebook for tips and motivation from others preparing for the exam.
4. Attend a Review Course: Enroll in a comprehensive NBCOT exam preparation course offered by reputable providers. These courses provide structured content reviews and test-taking strategies.
5. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weaker topics through practice exams and spend extra time reviewing those areas.
6. Maintain Self-Care: Ensure you get adequate rest, eat healthily, and incorporate stress-relief activities like exercise or mindfulness into your routine.

Why Passing the NBCOT Exam Matters

Certification through NBCOT not only validates your knowledge and skills but also opens the door to licensure in your state, allowing you to begin your career. As a Travel OTA, having this certification ensures you are prepared to take on diverse roles and responsibilities across different healthcare settings.

With dedication, preparation, and the right resources, passing the NBCOT exam will be your gateway to a successful and fulfilling OTA career.

Step 3: Obtain State Licensure

Once you’ve passed the NBCOT exam, the next step is to secure state licensure, which is required to practice as an Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA). Each state has its own licensing requirements and processes, so understanding the specifics of where you plan to work is critical.

Why Is State Licensure Important?

State licensure ensures that you meet the professional and ethical standards necessary to practice occupational therapy within a specific jurisdiction. It also protects public health by verifying that you’ve received proper training and certification. Without a valid license, you cannot legally work as an OTA.

Licensing for Travel OTAs

As a Travel OTA, you’ll likely need licensure in multiple states throughout your career, depending on your assignments. This can be time-consuming, as most states require:

• Submitting an application
• Paying licensure fees
• Providing proof of education and NBCOT certification
• Passing a background check

However, many states have streamlined processes to make licensing more accessible for traveling professionals.

Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact (OT Compact)

One of the most exciting advancements for travel OTAs is the Occupational Therapy Licensure

Compact (OT Compact). This agreement allows licensed OTAs and OTs in participating states to practice across state lines without obtaining separate licenses for each state. There are currently 31 states who have joined the OT Compact. Additionally, the District of Columbia, Nevada, Michigan, and Pennsylvania have pending legislation.

1. Alabama
2. Arkansas
3. Arizona
4. Colorado
5. Delaware
6. Georgia
7. Indiana
8. Iowa
9. Kentucky
10. Louisiana
11. Maine
12. Maryland
13. Minnesota
14. Mississippi
15. Missouri
16. Montana
17. Nebraska
18. New Hampshire
19. North Carolina
20. Ohio
21. Rhode Island
22. South Carolina
23. South Dakota
24. Tennessee
25. Utah
26. Vermont
27. Virginia
28. West Virginia
29. Wisconsin
30. Wyoming
31. Washington

This compact is expanding, making it easier for travel OTAs to move between states while reducing administrative burdens.

Tips for Navigating Licensure Requirements

1. Plan Ahead: Start the licensing process as soon as possible, especially for states not in the OT Compact. Licensing can take weeks or even months, depending on the state.
2. Keep Documentation Handy: Have digital and physical copies of your degree, NBCOT certification, and identification documents ready to submit with applications.
3. Stay Organized: Track application deadlines, fees, and renewal dates for each state license you hold. Using a spreadsheet or digital tool can help.
4. Leverage Agency Support: If you work with a travel healthcare agency, they often assist with licensure applications and reimburse associated costs.

By obtaining state licensure, you ensure you’re compliant with local regulations, paving the way for a seamless career as a Travel OTA. With the OT Compact making mobility easier than ever, the freedom to explore diverse opportunities is well within reach.

Step 4: Gain Professional Experience

Before transitioning into a Travel Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) role, it’s essential to build a solid foundation by gaining practical experience in a full-time OTA position. This experience not only strengthens your clinical skills but also prepares you for the dynamic and varied nature of travel assignments.

Why Practical Experience Matters

Starting your career in a stable, full-time role allows you to:

• Develop Core Competencies: Hone your abilities to assist with treatment plans, communicate effectively with patients, and document progress accurately.
• Build Confidence: Working in a consistent setting gives you the opportunity to refine your skills and gain confidence in handling diverse patient needs.
• Understand Workflows: Familiarizing yourself with the operations of a single facility will make it easier to adapt to new settings as a Travel OTA.
• Expand Your Professional Network: Working with experienced occupational therapists and colleagues helps you establish connections that may benefit your future travel career.

Explore Diverse Work Settings

To prepare for the varied environments you’ll encounter as a Travel OTA, aim to gain experience in multiple types of healthcare settings, such as:

• Rehabilitation Centers: Work with patients recovering from injuries or surgeries to regain physical and cognitive function.
• Nursing Homes or Long-Term Care Facilities: Support aging adults in maintaining independence and improving their quality of life.
• Outpatient Clinics: Treat patients who require ongoing therapy while living at home, focusing on specific goals like returning to work or school.
• Home Health Care: Gain experience adapting therapy to patients’ home environments, a skill highly valued in travel roles.

How This Experience Prepares You for Travel

By working in diverse settings, you’ll develop a well-rounded skillset that allows you to:

• Adapt quickly to different clinical environments and patient populations.
• Handle a variety of cases, from neurological conditions to orthopedic injuries.
• Be comfortable collaborating with new teams in unfamiliar locations.

Starting your career with practical, hands-on experience ensures you’ll have the expertise and confidence to excel as a Travel OTA. Employers and staffing agencies value OTAs who bring both technical skills and adaptability to their travel assignments, making this step an important investment in your future success.

Step 5: Partner with a Travel Healthcare Agency

One of the easiest and most efficient ways for Travel Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) to find assignments is through staffing agencies that specialize in healthcare travel jobs. These agencies connect qualified professionals with temporary assignments in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, rehab centers, nursing homes, and schools.

How Staffing Agencies Work

Healthcare staffing agencies act as intermediaries between OTAs and healthcare facilities in need of temporary staff. They handle:

• Job placement by matching your skills and preferences with available assignments.
• Logistical support, including housing arrangements, travel reimbursements, and licensing assistance.
• Contract negotiation, ensuring you’re compensated fairly and understand the terms of your assignment.

Agencies simplify the job search and paperwork process, allowing you to focus on your career and enjoy the travel experience.

Tips for Choosing the Right Staffing Agency

With numerous staffing agencies available, selecting the right one is crucial for a successful travel OTA career. Here’s what to look for:

• Reputation and Reviews: Research agencies online and read reviews from other travel healthcare professionals. Look for companies with a strong reputation for fairness and reliability.
• Specialization in Therapy Roles: Choose agencies that have specific experience in placing OTAs and other rehabilitation professionals. This ensures they understand your field and can find suitable assignments.
• Transparent Communication: Work with agencies that are upfront about pay rates, benefits, assignment details, and contract terms. Transparency is key to building trust.
• Support Services: Evaluate the agency’s support offerings, such as licensing assistance, housing options, health insurance, and travel reimbursements.
• Flexibility in Assignments: Ensure the agency offers assignments in locations and settings that align with your career goals and personal preferences.

Tips for Negotiating Contracts

When accepting a travel assignment, understanding and negotiating your contract is vital to ensure you’re compensated and comfortable with the terms. Here’s how:

• Understand the Pay Structure: Travel OTAs are often paid a combination of an hourly rate and non-taxable stipends for housing, meals, and incidentals. Clarify these details and ask for a breakdown of your total compensation.
• Inquire About Benefits: Check if the agency provides health insurance, retirement plan options, or bonuses for completing assignments.
• Negotiate Housing Options: Some agencies provide free housing, while others offer stipends. If you prefer to arrange your own housing, ensure the stipend covers your costs.
• Review the Cancellation Policy: Understand the terms for ending an assignment early, whether initiated by you or the facility. Ensure there are no hidden penalties.
• Ask About Licensure Reimbursement: If you need to obtain a new state license for an assignment, many agencies will cover the associated costs.

By partnering with a reputable staffing agency and carefully negotiating your contracts, you’ll be well-positioned to enjoy a successful and fulfilling career as a Travel OTA. These agencies open doors to exciting opportunities while providing the support you need to thrive on the road.

Travel OTA Skills and Qualities

Essential Skills for Travel OTAs

To thrive as a Travel Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA), you’ll need a well-rounded skill set that goes beyond clinical expertise. Travel OTAs work in diverse environments with patients from various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, making adaptability and interpersonal skills just as critical as technical proficiency. Below are the key skills essential for success in this dynamic role.

1. Communication Skills

Effective communication is at the core of every OTA’s responsibilities. Strong communication ensures that patients feel understood and supported, fostering better outcomes. As a Travel OTA, you’ll need to:

• Clearly explain therapy goals and exercises to patients and their families.
• Collaborate with occupational therapists and other healthcare team members to create and implement treatment plans.
• Adapt your communication style to suit each patient’s age, ability, and background.

2. Adaptability

Travel OTAs often work in unfamiliar environments with new teams and diverse patient populations. Adaptability allows you to seamlessly integrate into new assignments and deliver high-quality care, no matter the circumstances. Being flexible and open-minded helps you:

• Quickly adjust to different clinical settings, whether a rehab center, nursing home, or outpatient clinic.
• Handle varying workplace cultures and administrative processes.
• Navigate challenges, such as limited resources or unique patient needs, with a positive attitude.

3. Problem-Solving Skills

Each patient presents unique challenges, and travel roles often come with added complexities. The ability to think critically and find solutions ensures you can meet patient needs effectively in any setting. Strong problem-solving skills help you:

• Assess patient progress and adapt therapy plans as needed.
• Think creatively to overcome barriers, such as limited equipment or patient motivation.
• Respond to unexpected situations, such as schedule changes or logistical issues during assignments.

4. Knowledge of Therapy Techniques

A comprehensive understanding of occupational therapy techniques is vital for Travel OTAs. Demonstrating clinical competence builds trust with patients and colleagues alike. You’ll need to:

• Apply your expertise in areas like physical rehabilitation, sensory integration, and adaptive equipment training.
• Stay updated on evidence-based practices and emerging therapies.
• Tailor treatments to suit each patient’s individual goals and challenges.

5. Cultural Competence

As a Travel OTA, you’ll work with patients from diverse cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Being culturally sensitive not only enhances patient satisfaction but also ensures equitable and inclusive care. Cultural competence enables you to:

• Respect and understand differences in beliefs, values, and communication styles.
• Provide care that aligns with each patient’s cultural and personal preferences.
• Overcome potential language barriers by utilizing interpreters or visual aids when needed.

6. Time Management and Organization

Travel OTAs often balance busy schedules and demanding caseloads. Strong organizational skills are essential for staying on top of your responsibilities while adapting to new workplaces. Effective time management helps you:

• Prioritize tasks and manage multiple patients efficiently.
• Meet deadlines for documentation and treatment updates.
• Maintain a healthy work-life balance during assignments.

7. Emotional Resilience and Empathy

Working as an OTA can be emotionally taxing, particularly when helping patients facing significant challenges. Empathy fosters meaningful connections with patients, improving both their experience and their outcomes. Emotional resilience allows you to:

• Stay positive and patient-focused, even during difficult moments.
• Support patients empathetically as they navigate physical or emotional hardships.
• Handle the stress of frequent travel and changing environments.

By mastering these essential skills, you’ll be well-prepared to handle the unique demands of a Travel OTA career. Whether adapting to new environments, connecting with patients, or solving complex problems, these abilities ensure you can deliver exceptional care while embracing the adventure and flexibility of travel assignments.

Physical and Emotional Stamina

A career as a Travel Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) demands both physical and emotional endurance. The combination of long hours, frequent travel, and working with patients facing significant challenges requires resilience and a commitment to self-care. Here’s how these aspects play a crucial role in the success of a Travel OTA and strategies for maintaining your well-being.

Physical Stamina

Travel OTAs are often on their feet for much of the day, assisting patients with exercises, transfers, and activities designed to promote independence. The role can be physically demanding due to:

• Shifts can be extended in busy facilities or in response to patient needs.
• Supporting patients during mobility exercises or transfers may involve lifting or steadying them.
• Regularly packing, moving, and adjusting to new work environments can take a toll on the body.

To maintain physical stamina:

• Engage in regular exercise, such as strength training or yoga, to build endurance and prevent injuries.
• Use safe techniques when assisting patients to minimize strain and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.
• Ensure you’re getting adequate rest and staying hydrated throughout the day to sustain energy levels.

Emotional Stamina

Travel OTAs work with patients who may be recovering from life-altering injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. This can lead to emotionally taxing situations, such as:

• Helping individuals who are frustrated or struggling to regain independence can be challenging.
• Constantly adapting to new teams, work environments, and patient populations can lead to feelings of disconnection or burnout.
• Witnessing slow progress or patient setbacks can be emotionally draining.

To build emotional resilience:

• Practice mindfulness, meditation, or journaling to process your emotions and reduce stress.
• Stay connected with family, friends, or colleagues who can provide encouragement and understanding.
• Balance work and personal time to prevent emotional exhaustion and maintain your enthusiasm for the job.

Self-Care Strategies for Travel OTAs

To sustain both physical and emotional stamina, adopt a proactive approach to self-care:

• Establish daily habits, even while traveling, to bring consistency to your life.
• Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep to recharge your mind and body.
• Focus on Nutrition: Eat balanced meals to fuel your energy and boost overall well-being.
• Schedule time for relaxation, hobbies, or exploring your temporary location to refresh your spirit.
• Don’t hesitate to consult a therapist or counselor if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

By fostering physical strength and emotional resilience, you’ll be better equipped to handle the demands of a Travel OTA role. Prioritizing self-care ensures you can provide the best possible care to your patients while enjoying the unique rewards of this exciting career.

Travel OTA Salary and Job Outlook

How Much Do Travel OTAs Earn?

One of the key benefits of working as a Travel Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) is the potential for higher earnings compared to stationary OTAs. Travel OTAs typically earn more due to the inclusion of travel stipends, housing allowances, and the temporary nature of their assignments. Understanding the factors that influence pay will help you better estimate your earning potential in this exciting career.

Average Salary* Range for Travel OTAs

According to the BLS, the mean annual wage for Occupational Therapy Assistants was around $68,000 as of May 2023. However, travel OTAs tend to earn more due to the added benefits that come with their travel roles. According to ZipRecruiter, as of December 2024, Travel OTAs often see salaries in the range of $70,000 to $80,000 per year in the top ten highest paying cities for OTA jobs.

Factors That Influence Pay

Several factors can impact how much you earn as a Travel OTA:

1. Location:

• Travel OTAs working in cities with a high cost of living or in underserved regions may receive higher pay to compensate for the location. For example, urban areas or rural regions with limited access to healthcare may offer higher stipends or base pay.
• If you need multiple state licenses or are working in a state outside of the OT Compact, agencies may offer higher pay to cover the additional licensing fees and challenges.

2. Experience:

• Entry-level Travel OTAs may earn closer to the lower end of the salary range, while experienced professionals with several years of work in varied settings can command higher wages.
• Travel OTAs with expertise in specialized areas, such as pediatric, geriatric, or neurological therapy, may have opportunities to earn higher pay, as these skill sets are often in high demand.

3. Travel Stipends and Housing Allowances:
One of the main reasons travel OTAs earn more than stationary OTAs is the inclusion of additional financial perks such as:

• Many travel agencies offer housing stipends or provide free accommodations, which can significantly reduce your living expenses. The amount of the stipend often depends on the cost of living in the assignment area.
• Travel OTAs typically receive stipends to cover meals and other living expenses, which further increase their total earnings.
• Some agencies cover the cost of travel (airfare, mileage, etc.), which can save you money and add to your overall compensation package.

4. Type of Assignment:

• Longer assignments might offer higher pay rates or bonuses, while short-term contracts may offer higher pay as an incentive for accepting a temporary position.
• In some cases, travel OTAs may receive higher compensation for urgent assignments or those in areas with a critical shortage of healthcare workers.

Additional Considerations for Pay

When comparing salaries and compensation packages, it’s important to consider that some agencies offer additional perks like health insurance, retirement contributions, or paid time off, which can impact the overall value of your compensation package. In addition, travel OTAs may have the opportunity to work overtime or extra shifts, leading to additional income. Overall, the potential for higher earnings is one of the most attractive aspects of a Travel OTA career. With travel stipends, housing allowances, and the flexibility to choose your assignments, you can enjoy both financial rewards and the personal satisfaction of a dynamic, adventurous role.

What is the Job Outlook for Travel OTAs?

The job outlook for Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs) is highly positive, and Travel OTAs, in particular, are seeing even greater demand due to growing healthcare needs, especially in underserved and rural areas. According to the BLS, the employment of Occupational Therapy Assistants is projected to grow 22% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. This increase is driven by several factors:

• Aging Population: As the baby boomer generation ages, there is a greater need for rehabilitation services to help seniors maintain independence and recover from injuries or disabilities. OTAs play a critical role in providing these services.
• Chronic Health Conditions: The increasing prevalence of chronic conditions such as arthritis, stroke, and other mobility impairments also contributes to the demand for OTAs, as patients require ongoing therapy to manage their conditions.

The Advantage of Travel OTAs

While the overall demand for OTAs is growing, Travel OTAs may experience even more opportunities due to specific factors affecting healthcare staffing:

• Healthcare Worker Shortages:
  Many areas—especially rural, underserved, and remote locations—are facing significant shortages of healthcare professionals, including OTAs. Travel OTAs are often in high demand to fill these gaps, providing temporary relief to facilities in need of extra support. These shortages are exacerbated by the ongoing strain on healthcare systems due to the aging population. In addition, a higher number of healthcare workers are retiring or leaving the workforce, especially in rural or less desirable locations.
• Flexibility and High Demand in Rural Areas:
  Travel OTAs are particularly valuable in rural or isolated regions where it can be difficult to attract permanent staff. Facilities in these areas may offer higher pay or additional incentives to bring in travel OTAs. With the flexibility to choose where you work, travel OTAs can enjoy more job opportunities and negotiate contracts that align with their personal and professional goals.
• Increased Access to Therapy Services:
  As more states and healthcare facilities focus on expanding therapy services, there is an increasing demand for qualified OTAs. Travel OTAs can fill critical staffing needs, allowing hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes to provide continuous care, especially during busy seasons or staffing shortages.

The future for Travel OTAs looks promising as more healthcare facilities recognize the value of flexible, temporary staffing solutions. In addition to increased job opportunities in rural areas, travel OTAs may be needed to provide in-home therapy services as healthcare becomes increasingly patient-centered and home-based.

Brookline College’s OTA Program

Why Choose Brookline College?

Brookline College offers a comprehensive and well-structured Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program that provides an excellent foundation for anyone looking to pursue a career as an OTA. With hands-on training, and a faculty of experienced professionals, Brookline College prepares students to excel in the field of occupational therapy.

Key Features of the Brookline College OTA Program:

1. ACOTE Accreditation: Brookline College’s OTA program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) at the Phoenix, AZ campus, ensuring that students receive high-quality education that meets national standards. This accreditation is essential for pursuing certification and licensure as an OTA.
2. Hands-On Training: The program offers extensive hands-on training that allows students to gain practical experience in real-world settings. Students’ complete fieldwork rotations in diverse healthcare environments, ensuring they are well-prepared to work with various patient populations in different settings.
3. Experienced Faculty: Brookline College’s OTA program is taught by experienced instructors who have worked in the field and can offer valuable insights into the realities of an OTA career. They provide mentorship and guidance, helping students build both the technical skills and professional confidence needed to succeed.
4. Comprehensive Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded education, combining essential theory with clinical practice. Students gain expertise in areas such as anatomy, patient assessment, therapeutic interventions, and professional ethics.

Choosing the right educational program is a critical first step toward becoming a successful Travel OTA. Brookline College’s OTA program offers the perfect balance of theory, hands-on experience, and experienced instruction to prepare you for a rewarding career in occupational therapy.

To learn more about the program and take the first step toward your future, visit Brookline College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program page for detailed information.

Take the First Step Toward Your Travel OTA Career Today!

Becoming a Travel Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) is an exciting and rewarding career path that offers both professional growth and personal adventure. This foundational education equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to pass the NBCOT exam and obtain state licensure. Once certified and licensed, gaining experience in full-time OTA roles will help you develop the expertise necessary to thrive in travel positions. As a travel OTA, you’ll have the flexibility to choose your assignments, often benefiting from higher pay, travel stipends, and the chance to work in unique settings.

For those wondering how to become an Occupational Therapy Assistant, Brookline College offers an excellent starting point. Their program provides hands-on training and is led by experienced faculty who can help guide you every step of the way. The program’s comprehensive approach will prepare you for both the certification exam and real-world clinical practice, ensuring you’re well-equipped for success in the field. If you’re looking for the best entry-level medical jobs that offer growth, impact, and adventure, becoming a Travel OTA might be the perfect choice for you.

Travel OTAs not only enjoy the perks of flexibility and adventure, but they also make a significant impact on the lives of their patients. Whether helping someone recover from a life-altering injury or providing long-term support in underserved areas, travel OTAs play a crucial role in rehabilitation and patient care. By joining this profession, you’ll not only advance your career but also contribute to the well-being of individuals in need.