Occupational Therapists

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) both serve the interests of occupational therapy assistants and aides. AOTA, with a membership of about 60,000, including OTs, OTAs, and OT students, is headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland. The organization has a mission "to advance occupational therapy practice, education, and research through standard setting and advocacy on behalf of its members, the profession, and the public." NBCOT certifies occupational therapy practitioners. Its mission is to "serve the public interest in its diversity by advancing just, equitable, and inclusive client care and professional practice through evidence-based certification practices and the validation of knowledge essential for effective and safe practice in occupational therapy."