Becoming an Occupational Therapy Assistant in the Military

I'm considering a career as an occupational therapy assistant and wondering how this role is integrated into the military system. Are there specific programs or pathways to becoming an occupational therapy assistant on military installations?

Absolutely, in the military, occupational therapy assistants play a key role in helping rehabilitate service members who have suffered physical injuries or need help adapting to lifestyle changes. They work in different settings like hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and even field hospitals in deployed locations.

One of the ways to become an occupational therapy assistant in the military is by enrolling in the military's respective health services collegiate program/commissioned officer programs. For instance, the Army has the U.S. Army-Baylor University Doctoral Program in Occupational Therapy.

Another pathway is joining a branch of the military that offers occupational therapy assistant training. For example, the U.S. Army has the Occupational Therapy Specialist program. After completing Basic Combat Training, soldiers undergo an additional 16 weeks of Advanced Individual Training, including practice in assisting patients with rehabilitative activities and therapeutic exercises under a supervising Occupational Therapist.

Something to consider is that the military often prefers (or requires) a bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy, as opposed to an associate’s degree, which is the requirement for being an Occupational Therapy Assistant in the civilian world. It’s possible after gaining experience and further education in the military, one could transition to an Occupational Therapist role. One would need to become licensed to practice, which usually requires passing a national exam administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapists (NBCOT).

Remember, serving in the military entails more than just the professional role one assumes. It's a commitment often involving relocation, engagement in training exercises, and at times deployment. Consider these aspects carefully as you contemplate this career path, and try to connect with current military occupational therapy professionals to get a firsthand perspective.