College Diploma - Occupational/Physical Therapist Assistant

Medical advances permit a growing number of children and adults to live successfully with disabilities. Clients who have experienced an injury or a health condition that has impacted their ability to function in day-to-day life can maximize their physical, mental, and social abilities through rehabilitation.

Under the supervision of an occupational therapist or physiotherapist, therapist assistants work with clients with the goal of facilitating their active participation in society. Therapist assistants also support facility administration by managing therapeutic supplies and maintaining equipment.

Students train to be a rehabilitation therapy assistant at Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and gain knowledge in occupational and physical therapy to become a skilled assistant, with a curriculum that meets and exceeds the essential competencies required for support personnel for both occupational therapist and physiotherapist professions.

This program addresses key concepts of rehabilitation and healthcare delivery. Students have the opportunity to go on observational visits to clinical settings to help integrate their knowledge of normal physical and psychological function with basic therapeutic skills, and study advanced rehabilitation concepts, common health conditions, and therapeutic skills used in occupational therapy and physical therapy. Students also develop advanced therapeutic skills and learn about complex health conditions. This program includes two practicum rotations during which students apply and further refine their classroom and laboratory learning.