Guide to Occupational Therapist Assistant Certifications
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Occupational therapist assistants (OTAs) play a crucial role in the healthcare system, working under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists to help patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working. With the increasing demand for rehabilitation services across various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and private practices, the role of OTAs has become more significant.
To ensure a high standard of care, OTAs in the USA must meet specific certification and licensure requirements, which not only validate their skills and knowledge but also make them eligible to practice professionally.
OT assistants help OTs provide procedures and treatments to clients. Working under OTs, these professionals help patients reduce physical, developmental, or emotional barriers to participating in daily activities, such as eating, dressing, or working. The role of an OTA is critical in the rehabilitation process, as they work directly with patients to implement therapeutic interventions and monitor progress. In addition, they may work with patients who have disabilities, helping them learn about money management, socialization, or other skills needed to become independent and successful at work, home, or school.
To become a certified occupational therapist assistant in the USA, candidates must complete an accredited OTA program, which typically involves an associate degree, although some bachelor’s degree programs are also available. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. As of 2024, there are over 230 accredited OTA associate degree programs and 21 OTA bachelor’s degree programs across the United States. These programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), ensuring that they meet the required standards for education and training.
Upon graduation, aspiring OTAs are required to obtain certification before practicing. There are several certification options available for OTAs, and the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is the primary certification organization in the USA. NBCOT offers the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) certification, which is recognized in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
Some states require OTAs to obtain state-specific certifications or licenses in addition to the NBCOT certification. The requirements for state certifications or licenses vary by state, but they typically involve additional education and testing in occupational therapy areas. Additionally, most states mandate licensure, which often includes background checks and adherence to continuing education to maintain certification.
With certification, OTAs can work effectively with occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals to help patients improve their quality of life and well-being.
Moreover, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2024) offers a very encouraging job outlook for this field. Between 2023 and 2033, employment of occupational therapy assistants is predicted to grow by an impressive 22 percent. This is much faster than the expected growth rate averaged across all occupations during the same period (4 percent).
This article offers a step-by-step guide to becoming a certified occupational therapist assistant (OTA). From understanding the necessary educational requirements to navigating the certification process, we’ll cover each stage to ensure you’re well-prepared for your journey. Additionally, we will explore other certification options that can further enhance your skills and career prospects in the field of occupational therapy.
Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA)
Becoming a certified occupational therapist assistant (OTA) can be a rewarding career choice for individuals who are passionate about helping others.
In this step-by-step guide, we will discuss the essential requirements and steps to become a certified occupational therapist assistant in the United States, according to the guidelines set forth by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).
Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma
To become an occupational therapist assistant, you will need a high school diploma or GED. This is the minimum educational requirement which will allow you to enroll in an accredited OTA program.
Step 2: Choose an Accredited OTA Program (One Year or More)
It’s important to choose an accredited OTA program, as this ensures that the program meets certain standards of quality and will prepare you for a career as an OTA. The program will consist of both classroom instruction and supervised fieldwork, where you will gain hands-on experience. A list of accredited programs is available from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), part of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).
Notably, in order to be eligible for the NBCOT exam, candidates who were educated in the United States must have received their occupational therapy degree from an ACOTE-accredited occupational therapy assistant (OTA) program.
As already mentioned in the introduction, several universities and colleges offer occupational therapy assistant associate degrees, typically requiring two years of full-time study for candidates with a high school diploma. Two such program examples are mentioned below:
Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Rapids Community College offers an ACOTE-accredited occupational therapy assistant program that prepares students for the national certification examination administered by the National Certification Board of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
This 70-credit program includes courses such as documentation in OT; police justice administration; court justice administration; correctional justice administration; research methods; criminological theory; selected topics in criminal justice; contemporary issues and trends in terrorism; policy analysis and criminal justice administration; and legal aspects in criminal justice administration.
- Location: Grand Rapids, MI
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council of Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years
Central Piedmont Community College
Central Piedmont Community College offers another ACOTE-accredited occupational therapy assistant program, which prepares graduates for the national certification examination.
Students in this program will begin with foundational skills in therapy and medical terminology, kinesiology, occupational therapy theory, principles of documentation, and activity analysis. As they progress, they will learn about assessing and monitoring client performances related to movement, sensation, perception, vision, emotions, daily routines, and cognition.
The college prides itself on having a 100 percent pass rate on the National Board for Certification in occupational therapy certification exam for the past four years.
Students in this two-year program will spend more than 600 hours of supervised clinical training in skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, pediatric clinics, schools, and other settings to gain valuable hands-on experience that complements and supplements traditional classroom learning. Graduates will also have the opportunity to participate in the Student Occupational Therapy Association.
The 74-credit program includes courses such as fundamentals of OT, OT media, pediatric concepts and interventions, psychosocial conditions, adult concepts and interventions, kinesiology, and a survey of medical terminology.
- Location: Charlotte, NC
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council of Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two years
Step 3: Complete Fieldwork (16 Weeks or More)
As part of your OTA program, you must complete at least 16 weeks of supervised fieldwork. This will give you the opportunity to gain practical experience and apply what you have learned in the classroom. Fieldwork may take place in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or schools.
Step 4: Pass the National Certification Examination
All states regulate the practice of occupational therapy assistants, with most states requiring OTAs to be licensed before they can begin practicing.
Licensure requires students to complete an accredited occupational therapy assistant education program, fieldwork, and pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam. With this NBCOT certification, individuals can practice as Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTA). The cost of the exam is $540. When reapplying for the exam, the cost is $430.
To sit for the NBCOT certification exam, candidates must graduate with an entry-level occupational therapy degree from an ACOTE-accredited occupational therapy assistant (OTA) program. The four-hour exam requires students to pay a fee and obtain a passing score of 450 or higher. Applicants can take the exams as often as possible to pass, but they must wait forty-five days between attempts.
Students who have passed the exam are notified via email when their exam results have been posted online. They will also receive a congratulatory letter that includes their overall score, information about their certification benefits, and how to access and download their official NBCOT digital certificate, wallet card, and digital badge verifying Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) certification.
Step 5: Participate in Continuing Education (Timeline Varies)
To maintain your certification as an OTA, you will need to participate in continuing education courses. The number and type of courses required vary by state but typically include courses on new techniques, technologies, or laws affecting occupational therapy practice.
Step 6: Apply for State Certified OTA Licensure (Timeline Varies)
Applying for state licensure is different from passing your exam. Candidates will need to apply for a state license in order to practice. All jurisdictions, including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, have some form of regulation of occupational therapy assistants.
Before beginning practice in any state or comparable jurisdiction, candidates must meet all the necessary requirements of that jurisdiction. Practicing without a license or permit is against the law.
Step 7: Start Your Career
Once you have completed your OTA program, passed the NBCOT exam, and obtained licensure or certification, you are ready to start your career as an occupational therapy assistant. Look for job openings at hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, schools, and other healthcare facilities. Be sure to update your resume and cover letter with your certifications and education to make yourself stand out to potential employers.
Additional Specialty Certifications for Occupational Therapist Assistants
Along with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification, occupational therapist assistants (OTAs) can pursue several other certifications and specializations to enhance their expertise, skills, and career opportunities. Please note that this is not a comprehensive list; these are just some of the more common ones.
Here’s a detailed guide to some of these certifications:
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant Certification (COTA)
Before diving into additional certifications, it’s important to mention the foundational certification. The COTA credential is awarded by the NBCOT and is a must-have for anyone looking to practice as an occupational therapy assistant in the United States.
Requirements:
- Completion of an accredited OTA program
- Passing the NBCOT exam. The cost of the exam is $540. When reapplying for the exam, the cost is $430
- Meeting state licensure requirements
Assistive Technology Professional Certification (ATP)
Offered by the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA), the Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) certification is also available to certified occupational therapy assistants (COTAs).
The ATP certification prepares individuals to assess, recommend, and provide assistive technology devices and services to individuals with disabilities. This could include access and mobility devices, communication devices, environmental control systems, and more.
The certification involves passing a written exam and meeting certain requirements related to education, experience, and professional development. COTAs with the ATP certification have the knowledge and skills to provide assistive technology solutions to help individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence, participation, and quality of life.
Certification Testing:
This exam has 180 multiple-choice questions and covers the spectrum of assistive technology practice. Areas of AT practice covered in this certification include technology for learning disabilities, accessible transportation, environmental modification, technology for sensory impairment, and seating and mobility, among others. To take the exam, applicants must send a completed application form and a $500 fee to RESNA.
Requirements:
- COTAs must have an associate degree in occupational therapy assisting. The degree should be from an accredited program recognized by a relevant national or regional accrediting body.
- COTAs need to have at least 3,000 to 4,000 hours of work experience in assistive technology within a six-year period. This experience should involve direct interaction with clients, including assessment, implementation, and training related to assistive technology. The work experience should be documented and verifiable.
- Candidates must agree to adhere to RESNA’s code of ethics and standards of practice.
Renewal:
Recertification is required to ensure a commitment to keeping skills and knowledge current. RESNA certifications are time-limited and have a two-year renewal cycle.
Certification renewal requires candidates to provide documentation on the demonstration of ongoing professional development through
- Relevant work experience; and
- Earning continuing education units, or; earning academic credit from an academic (higher education) institution.
Seating and Mobility Specialist Certification (SMS)
The Seating and Mobility Specialist (SMS) certification is another specialized credential offered by the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA). It is designed for professionals involved in providing seating and mobility services to individuals with disabilities. For Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs), obtaining the SMS certification demonstrates a high level of expertise and commitment to the field of complex rehabilitation technology (CRT). Here’s an overview of the SMS certification specifically for COTAs:
Certification Testing:
The SMS exam is a computer-based test consisting of 165 multiple-choice questions. The questions are designed to test the candidate’s knowledge and problem-solving abilities specific to seating and mobility. The application fee is $250 for the first time or a re-test more than one year since the last exam attempt or $125 for a retest within one calendar year since the last exam. A $50 processing fee is charged for cancellations.
Requirements:
- COTAs must already hold the Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) certification. The ATP certification serves as a foundational requirement, ensuring that the candidate has a broad understanding of assistive technology principles before specializing in seating and mobility.
- COTAs need to have a minimum of 1,000 hours of direct experience in seating and mobility within the last six years. This experience must involve client interaction and responsibilities such as assessing, recommending, fitting, and training on seating and mobility equipment. The experience should be specific to addressing the complex needs of individuals requiring specialized seating systems and mobility aids.
- Completion of two types of professional activities in the past five years. These activities include continuing education, client service delivery, mentoring/supervision, advocacy, presentations/formal instruction, leadership, or publication.
Renewal:
Recertification is required to ensure that a commitment is made to keep skills and knowledge current. RESNA certifications are time-limited and are on a two-year renewal cycle.
Certification renewal requires candidates to provide documentation on the demonstration of ongoing professional development through
- Relevant work experience; and
- Earning continuing education units, or; earning academic credit from an academic (higher education) institution.
Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist Certification (CAPS)
The Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) certification is a program developed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). This certification is designed for professionals who help older adults and individuals with disabilities remain in their homes safely, independently, and comfortably. The CAPS certification focuses on the strategies and techniques for designing and modifying homes to allow individuals to age in place. This involves making living environments safer and more accessible, often with modifications that address mobility challenges, sensory impairments, and other health-related issues that arise with aging.
For COTAs, obtaining the CAPS certification can enhance their ability to support aging clients by understanding how to adapt homes to meet specific needs. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the CAPS certification tailored for COTAs:
Certification Testing:
The CAPS certification requires the completion of three specific courses. These courses are typically offered through the NAHB and can be taken in-person or online.
- CAPS I: Marketing and Communicating with the Aging in-Place Client
This course covers how to effectively communicate with older adults and their families about aging-in-place options. It includes marketing strategies, consumer demographics, and learning how to interact with clients to understand their needs
- CAPS II: Design Concepts and Methods for Livable Homes and Aging in Place
This course provides an understanding of the design and construction aspects of home modifications. It covers universal design principles, accessibility modifications, and safety enhancements that can be integrated into homes.
- CAPS III: Details and Solutions for Livable Homes and Aging in Place
This course goes deeper into the practical aspects of implementing aging-in-place strategies. It looks at the specifics of solutions that can be applied to different rooms of the house, ensuring they are safe and functional.
The national course fee is $279 for members and $419 for non-members. Graduation will cost $145 for members and $218 for non-members.
Requirements:
- The CAPS program is open to a wide range of professionals, including COTAs, OTs, PTs, builders, remodelers, architects, and healthcare professionals. There are no strict educational prerequisites beyond a professional background that aligns with serving aging populations.
- While specific work experience in aging-in-place services is not required, COTAs should have a strong interest in assisting older adults and individuals with disabilities to maintain their independence by modifying their home environments.
- Candidates should be willing to participate in ongoing learning related to aging in place, home modifications, and assistive technologies.
Renewal:
NAHB designees are required to complete four hours or credits each year. Designees are not required to send in proof of continuing education (CE) earned at the time of renewal. However, designees may be chosen for a random audit and NAHB will contact them directly to provide proof of CE.
Annual renewal fees cost $65 for members and $95 for non-members.
Certified Brain Injury Specialist Certification (CBIS)
The Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS) certification is a professional credential offered by the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) through its Academy of Certified Brain Injury Specialists (ACBIS) program. This certification is designed for professionals, including Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs), who work with individuals affected by brain injuries. The CBIS certification signifies a specialized level of knowledge and expertise in the field of brain injury rehabilitation, care, and support. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the CBIS certification tailored for COTAs:
Certification Testing:
The CBIS exam consists of 70 multiple-choice questions based on the content in the Essential Brain Injury Guide. The exam covers various topics such as definitions of acquired and traumatic brain injuries; incidence and prevalence of injury and mortality; anatomy of the brain and spinal cord; principles of neuroprotection; disorders of consciousness; evaluation and treatment of headaches; psychological fatigue; types of injuries and correlating cognitive impairments; neuropsychology; rehabilitation philosophy; aging; and cognitive behavioral therapy, among others.
Candidates have exactly two hours to complete the examination and they must score 80 percent or higher on the examination in order to receive certification. The cost of this certification is $325. Those who do not pass this exam on their first attempt may take one retest within the one-year deadline of the initial application submission date at no additional charge.
Requirements:
- Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Candidates must have at least 500 hours of direct work experience with individuals who have sustained brain injuries. This experience must be within the last three years and should involve assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation focused on brain injury care.
- Experience can be paid employment or academic internship.
- The experience must have included formal supervision or have been conducted while the applicant operated under a professional license.
Renewal:
The CBIS certification is valid for one year. To maintain certification, professionals must renew annually by submitting a renewal application and a renewal fee. CBIS-certified professionals must complete at least 10 hours of continuing education related to brain injury each year. This ensures that certified individuals stay updated with the latest research, treatment methods, and best practices in brain injury care.
Payment of a $70 certification renewal fee and submission of the online CBIS application renewal is required.
Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner Certification (CKTP)
The Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner (CKTP) certification is a credential offered by the Kinesio Taping Association International (KTAI). It is designed for healthcare professionals, including Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs), who wish to specialize in the application of Kinesio Tape. Kinesio Taping is a therapeutic taping technique that provides support and stability to muscles and joints without restricting movement often used in rehabilitation and pain management. This certification equips practitioners with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively use Kinesio Tape in their practice.
The certification focuses on training healthcare professionals to apply Kinesio Tape correctly and effectively. Kinesio Taping is widely used in various therapeutic settings to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, facilitate lymphatic drainage, enhance muscle function, and support injury recovery. CKTP certification ensures that practitioners are proficient in applying Kinesio Tape according to the best practices and evidence-based techniques.
Certification Testing:
To become a CKTP, candidates must complete a series of Kinesio Taping Foundations-approved seminars offered by the Kinesio Taping Association International. These seminars are designed to teach the theory, application, and clinical use of Kinesio Tape. Seminar topics include Kinesio taping assessments, fundamental concepts and techniques, and advanced techniques and clinical reasoning.
After completing the required coursework, candidates must pass a practical examination with 80 percent or higher. The exam tests the candidate’s ability to apply Kinesio Tape effectively and appropriately in different scenarios. It assesses both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Candidates may also be required to submit case studies or practical demonstrations of their application techniques.
Upon successfully completing the coursework and passing the exam, candidates are awarded the Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner (CKTP) credential. This certification indicates that the practitioner is competent in the principles and application of Kinesio Taping techniques.
Requirements:
COTAs must have a valid certification or license to practice as occupational therapy assistants. The certification is geared toward licensed healthcare professionals, including COTAs, occupational therapists, physical therapists, athletic trainers, chiropractors, and physicians. Students in their junior or senior year working towards such a credential are also eligible.
Renewal:
As a certifying organization, the KTAI is required to maintain an ongoing relationship and monitoring of its certified practitioners. With no annual recertification requirement, this is achieved through the membership system. Membership with the KTAI allows them to continue to update practitioners with the latest advancements, research, and news relating to the Kinesio Taping Method via their member newsletters and Advance Healing Magazine.
Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist Certification (CSRS)
The Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist (CSRS) certification is a specialized credential offered by the American Stroke Association (ASA) through various training programs to provide healthcare professionals with advanced knowledge and skills in stroke rehabilitation. This certification is designed for professionals, including Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs), who work closely with stroke survivors to improve their recovery outcomes. Earning the CSRS certification demonstrates a commitment to excellence in stroke rehabilitation and a dedication to implementing evidence-based practices.
The CSRS certification focuses on the comprehensive rehabilitation of stroke survivors. It provides healthcare professionals with specialized training in assessing, treating, and managing the physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges that stroke survivors face. The certification program emphasizes evidence-based techniques, practical skills, and the latest research in stroke rehabilitation.
Certification Testing:
The American Stroke Association (ASA) offers a rigorous series of seminars culminating in an online certification examination. The CSRS certification process involves completing this series of courses designed to cover various aspects of stroke rehabilitation. These courses are offered by accredited institutions or organizations recognized by the American Stroke Association.
Once completing the four days of training, students may choose to take the exam to become certified as a Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist. The cost to take this exam is $150. An invite to take the exam is sent once all four days of training are completed. A certificate of achievement is provided upon passing the exam.
This online exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions from a bank of over 300 questions. Participants have three hours to complete this exam and must get 80 percent correct to pass. Participants are allowed to take the exam twice if they fail to pass on the first attempt. Participants have up to three months from the conclusion of their four-day training session to complete the exam.
The courses cost $225 per course when registering for all four courses which makes it $900 in total.
Requirements:
All licensed OTs, OTAs, PTs, and PTAs are eligible to take the course. COTAs must be certified or licensed to practice as occupational therapy assistants. The CSRS certification is open to licensed healthcare professionals, including COTAs, occupational therapists (OTs), physical therapists (PTs), speech-language pathologists (SLPs), nurses, and other professionals involved in stroke rehabilitation. It is beneficial, though not mandatory, for candidates to have some experience working with stroke patients or in neurorehabilitation settings.
Upon passing the exam, candidates receive the Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist (CSRS) credential, signifying their expertise in stroke rehabilitation. This certification is recognized as a mark of excellence in stroke care.
Renewal:
The renewal process ensures that certified professionals remain up-to-date with the latest advancements in stroke rehabilitation. To maintain CSRS certification, 16 hours of continuing education that is specific to stroke rehabilitation is required every two years. The cost for renewal is $100.
Certified Health Coach Certification (CHC)
The Certified Health Coach (CHC) certification is a professional credential designed for individuals who wish to help clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized coaching and guidance. For certified occupational therapy assistants (COTAs), obtaining the CHC certification can provide an opportunity to expand their skill set and offer additional services focused on preventive health, lifestyle modifications, and overall well-being. This certification can complement their role in rehabilitation by promoting holistic approaches to health and wellness.
There are several organizations that offer CHC programs, including the National Society of Health Coaches (NSHC), the American Council on Exercise (ACE), and the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC).
Certification Testing:
To become a certified health coach, candidates must complete a training program accredited by a recognized health coaching organization. As mentioned above, there are several organizations that offer CHC programs, including the NSHC, ACE, and NBHWC.
The training typically includes online or in-person classes covering topics such as foundations of health coaching; behavior change theory; motivational interviewing; nutrition and wellness; physical activity and exercise; and chronic disease management.
Upon completing the training program, candidates must pass a certification exam to earn the CHC credential. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that assess knowledge of health coaching principles, behavior change strategies, and client management. Candidates are given three hours to complete their exam.
Successful candidates receive the certified health coach (CHC) credential, which signifies their competence in health coaching and commitment to supporting clients in achieving their health and wellness goals.
Requirements:
COTAs must have a certification or license to practice as occupational therapy assistants. The CHC certification is generally open to healthcare professionals, including COTAs, occupational therapists, physical therapists, nurses, dietitians, personal trainers, and other allied health professionals. Although specific work experience in health coaching is not mandatory, having a background in healthcare and patient care, which COTAs typically possess, is beneficial.
Renewal:
The CHC certification is usually valid for two to three years, depending on the certifying organization. To maintain certification, health coaches must renew their credentials by completing continuing education requirements and paying a renewal fee. Certified health coaches must complete a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) related to health coaching, wellness, or healthcare. This may involve attending workshops, webinars, conferences, or completing additional training courses.
The ACE does not require professionals to take the exam again to renew their certification, provided they stay current on their continuing education credits and renew on time. That means completing 20 hours of ACE-Approved CECs during their two-year certification renewal cycles, or about ten hours per year. However, if they don’t complete their 20 hours of ACE-Approved CECs and their certification expires, they will have to retake the exam.
However, at the National Society of Health Coaches, recertification is required every five years and is achieved only through re-testing. The exam will reflect the content of the most current NSHC edition of its self-study program. NSHC Members will register for recertification and test prior to the expiration of their CHC credential to avoid interruption in their certification status. A current NSHC membership, in good standing with the Society, and an active unencumbered license/qualifying credential are required to recertify. The cost for recertification is $545.
Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT)
To become a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, candidates must complete a training program accredited by recognized organizations such as the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA), the Academy of Lymphatic Studies (ACOLS), Klose Training, or Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy. In this article, we are only focussing on the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA).
The Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) certification is a specialized credential for healthcare professionals, including certified occupational therapy assistants (COTAs), who wish to specialize in treating and managing lymphedema and related disorders. Lymphedema is a chronic condition characterized by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid, usually in the arms or legs, which can cause swelling, discomfort, and other complications. Earning the CLT certification equips COTAs with advanced skills and knowledge to provide effective care for patients suffering from this condition.
The CLT certification is designed to train healthcare professionals in comprehensive lymphedema management. This certification focuses on a specific type of therapy called Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which includes manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), compression therapy, exercise, and skincare. The CLT certification ensures that practitioners are proficient in these methods and can effectively implement them in clinical practice to manage and treat lymphedema.
Certification Testing:
To become a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, candidates must complete a 135-hour course in Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). After completing the training program, candidates must pass a certification exam to earn the CLT credential. The exam typically consists of 120 multiple-choice questions. The passing score for the CLT-LANA examination is set by a national panel of expert representatives in the field of lymphedema. The cost to take the exam is $430.
Notably, it is the policy of LANA that any candidate who fails to achieve a passing score on the examination may apply to retake the examination six months after the date of the first examination. The candidate must contact LANA to re-register. Re-registration includes verification of professional license, contact information, and payment of current exam fee.
Requirements:
- COTAs must be licensed or certified to practice as Occupational Therapy Assistants. The CLT certification is available to a range of licensed healthcare professionals, including occupational therapists, physical therapists, nurses, physicians, and massage therapists.
- Provide proof of successful completion of a qualified instructional course in Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) coursework.
- Provide proof of basic science requirement completion consisting of 12 credits of college-level human anatomy, physiology, and/or pathology from an accredited college or university.
- Submit a complete examination application, including the $430 exam fee.
- Achieve a passing score on the CLT-LANA exam.
Renewal:
LANA Certification is valid for six years. All candidates for recertification must submit:
- Proof of a current and unrestricted U.S. professional state license, registration or equivalent Canadian provincial or territorial license, or registration as stated in the initial certification process
- A completed recertification application
- $200 recertification fee
- 24 contact hours of continuing education within the six years
