AOTA certification is based on a peer-reviewed process in which applicants submit a reflective portfolio that addresses identified criteria, a self-assessment, and development of a professional development plan. Criteria that define aspects of either advanced (Board) or specialized (Specialty) occupational therapy practice are at the core of each of the Board Certification and Specialty Certification programs. These criteria represent knowledge, critical and ethical reasoning, and interpersonal and performance skills that are specifically geared to occupational therapy.
Successful applicants for AOTA certification are granted a credential that corresponds with their Board or Specialty area, and they are eligible to use this credential for a period of 5 years, at which time a renewal application must be completed.
If you have not already done so and would like updates by email, please provide contact information here. To learn when the next Q&A conference call will be or to listen to a recording of a past call, please go to this link.
Applications are typically accepted in June and December of each year, with an additional March deadline added for 2014. Upcoming dates are:
- March 12, 2014
- June 11, 2014
- December 10, 2014
The 9 certification areas are as follows:
Board Certification
(OT)
Specialty Certification
(OT and OTA)