Certifications can be a powerful tool to show employers you know your stuff. However, not all certifications are created equal.

We've compiled a list of the most common certifications for occupational therapy aides. Not only will obtaining these certifications give you a leg up for job hunting, they will also increase your overall value.

4 Best Certifications For Occupational Therapy Aides

4 Best Occupational Therapy Aide Certifications

1. Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Is a not-for-profit credentialing agency that provides certification for the occupational therapy profession. NBCOT® serves the public interest by developing, administering and continually reviewing a certification process that reflects current standards of competent practice in occupational therapy. We also work with state regulatory authorities, providing information on credentials, disciplinary actions, and regulatory and certification renewal issues.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 5 year(s)
Course That Help You To Prepare For Certification
Fundamentals of Occupational Therapy (OT)
udemy
4.6
(61)

2. Massage Therapy Certification (MT)

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? No
Course That Help You To Prepare For Certification
Massage Therapy
udemy
4.6
(996)

3. Advanced First Aid & CPR

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 1 year(s)
Certifying Website
Advanced First Aid &...
Certifying Organization
National Safety Council
Course That Help You To Prepare For Certification
First Aid & CPR - An in Depth Guide to CPR, AED and Choking
udemy
4.6
(333)

4. First Aid Certification

Designed for individuals with a duty to respond to emergencies, this program combines discussions, video and hands-on training. Real-life rescue scenarios reinforce decision-making skills. Free quarterly refreshers. Course covers how to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies in adults, children and infants until more advanced medical personnel take over.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 2 year(s)
Certifying Website
First Aid Certification
Course That Help You To Prepare For Certification
First Aid
udemy
4.3
(1,482)

What is the best certification for a Occupational Therapy Aide?

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) certification is most common among occupational therapy aides. This certification is awarded by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. this certification is great to have as it shows an improvement in your competency to perform your role. You can earn this certification at the beginning of your career, as it often doesn't require a minimum education level and work experience. To become a certified occupational therapy aide with Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), you need to pass the exam. Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience. Renew certification every 5 year.

What are Some of the Most In-Demand Certifications For Occupational Therapy Aides?

We analyzed online job postings to determine the most commonly asked-for certifications. The most popular certification requirement is Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. By holding this certification, you will gain a more-competitive resume that will look impressive to potential employers.

Best Certifications

Occupational therapy aides are most likely to hold a combination of the following certifications: Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), Massage Therapy Certification (MT), and Advanced First Aid & CPR.

online courses for Occupational Therapy Aides that you may like

If you are not ready to pass the certification program but still want to improve your skills, these online courses may help.

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1. Introduction to Integrative Therapies and Healing Practices

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2. Occupational Therapy Introduction - ACCREDITED CERTIFICATE

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3. Massage Therapy

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Massage Therapy Course 101...

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Online Counselling & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Training Course...

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Comprehensive CBT Therapy Training Cognitive Behavior Therapy Practitioner Level Treat Anxiety, Depression & More...

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Arts Therapy heals! Improve your Mental Health with 30 Art Therapy Exercises. With Certificate Upon Completion...

16. The Complete EMDR Therapy Course - Accredited Certification

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International EMDR Training for Self-Healing, Trauma Therapy, Childhood Healing, PTSD, Grief, and Counseling...

17. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Associate Life Coach

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CBT: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Life Coaching Associate Coach Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Coaching...

18. (Nov. 2022)The MOST Extensive, Accredited, Art Therapy.

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Everything you need to heal yourself - and heal others. Workbooks. hundreds of Art Therapy exercises. active Q/A...

19. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Certificate

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Become a certified CBT practitioner and learn to use cognitive behavior therapy to improve people's mental health...

20. Dyslexia Therapy for Self Help or as a Career

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Dyslexia Therapy as a Self-Help Model for Dyslexics & Dyslexia Therapy as a Career...

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