Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Intensive Intensive 16 weeks
Program Description
The OTA & PTA Intensive Program trains students to assist Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists in delivering care to clients recovering from illness, injury, or managing chronic conditions. Graduates learn therapy techniques, communication skills, clinical documentation, and hands-on support in both physical rehabilitation and functional daily living activities.
Graduates will be able to:
- Support rehabilitation exercises and treatment plans designed by OTs/PTs.
- Educate and assist clients in activities of daily living (ADLs).
- Safely use modalities, equipment, and assistive devices.
- Apply principles of therapeutic exercise, mobility, and function.
- Document progress and communicate effectively with the healthcare team.
- Demonstrate professional, ethical practice in clinical settings.
14-Week Intensive Outline
Week 1
Introduction to Rehabilitation Practice
• Roles of OTA/PTA, healthcare team collaboration
• Ethics, professionalism, confidentiality (HIPAA/PHIPA)
• Safety protocols in rehabilitation
Week 2
Anatomy & Physiology Foundations
• Musculoskeletal, nervous, and cardiovascular systems
• Functional human movement and biomechanics
• Lab: Anatomical models and movement observation
Week 3
Growth, Development & Aging
• Normal development across the lifespan
• Aging, disability, and chronic conditions
• Lab: Case discussions on pediatric, adult, geriatric clients
Week 4
Principles of Physiotherapy
• Exercise therapy fundamentals
• Strength, endurance, balance, and mobility exercises
• Lab: Basic therapeutic exercise demonstrations
Week 5
Principles of Occupational Therapy
• Activities of daily living (ADLs)
• Cognitive, sensory, and perceptual considerations
• Lab: Simulated ADL support activities
Week 6
Therapeutic Modalities I
• Hot/cold therapy, ultrasound, electrical stimulation basics
• Lab: Safe use of common physiotherapy modalities
Week 7
Therapeutic Modalities II & Assistive Devices
• Mobility aids (walkers, canes, wheelchairs)
• Adaptive equipment for ADLs
• Lab: Fitting, adjusting, and training clients in use
Week 8
Mental Health & Psychosocial Support
• Role of OTA/PTA in supporting clients with mental health challenges
• Motivational strategies and communication skills
• Lab: Role-play therapeutic interactions
Week 9
Clinical Documentation & Communication
• SOAP notes (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan)
• Professional communication with clients and healthcare teams
• Lab: Writing documentation from case scenarios
Week 10
Rehabilitation for Special Populations
• Neurological conditions (stroke, TBI, MS, Parkinson’s)
• Orthopedic conditions (fractures, joint replacements)
• Lab: Case study practice
Week 11
Pediatrics & Developmental Therapy
• OT/PT approaches for children with developmental delays
• Play-based therapy, sensory integration
• Lab: Pediatric therapy activities
Week 12
Geriatric Rehabilitation
• Falls prevention, mobility training, chronic condition management
• Lab: Senior care simulations
Week 13
Practicum Preparation
• Professional readiness (resume, interview prep)
• Simulation: Conducting full therapy session under supervision
• Workplace ethics & interprofessional collaboration
Week 14
Clinical Placement / Capstone
• Supervised practicum in hospital, rehab, or community setting
• Apply OTA/PTA skills with real clients under OT/PT supervision
• Final evaluation & case presentation
- Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA)
- Physiotherapist Assistant (PTA)
- Rehabilitation Assistant
- Therapy Aide (hospital/clinic)
- Community Support / Mobility Specialist
Work settings:
- Hospitals & rehabilitation centres
- Private physiotherapy & occupational therapy clinics
- Long-term care facilities
- Community health agencies
- Schools (special needs support)
Salary Ranges (Canada)
Entry level
CAD $42,000 – $50,000 / year (~$20–$24/hr)
Mid-career
(3–5 years): CAD $50,000 – $60,000+ (~$25–$29/hr)
Senior / Specialized
CAD $65,000+ (depending on province, hospital vs private)