An occupational therapy assistant ota works with an occupational therapist ot or otr to treat patients who have difficulty performing daily living and work activities due to illnesses injuries and disabilities he or she helps clients perform exercises as specified in a treatment plan and teaches them how to use equipment that may make some activities easier. Occupational therapy assistant career by april johnson occupational therapy assistants or otas assist occupational therapists with the rehabilitation and care of patients with physical mental developmental social and emotional disabilities occupational therapy assistants work with people of all ages and can be employed in hospitals . Occupational therapy assistants made a median salary of 60220 in 2018 the best paid 25 percent made 71820 that year while the lowest paid 25 percent made 50510 see full salary details . Occupational therapy assistants are typically paid more in the private sector and large cities they may receive a stipend to cover travel expenses if this is part of the role salaries will vary according to qualifications experience and size of the employer common salary in the us 2923 per hour