Army MOS · Medical
68L Occupational Therapy Specialist
Overview
An Occupational Therapy Specialist interviews and tests patients, plans treatment programs, and teaches or assists patients under the direction of a registered military occupational therapist. This specialist helps patients reduce physical and mental disabilities caused by illness or trauma, prevent injury, modify their lifestyles, and improve fitness.
Core Skills
- patient interviewing and assessment support
- treatment planning support
- data collection and documentation
- electronic health record usage
- therapeutic exercise and activity instruction
- adaptive equipment training
- patient education and coaching
- time and caseload management
- interdisciplinary team collaboration
- confidentiality and privacy compliance
Civilian Software & Tools
- eClinicalWorks EHR software
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Windows
Civilian Career Paths
- Rehabilitation
- Clinical Technician
- Nursing
Training & Development
Getting Started
- Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) · Funded · Promotion points · STAR
- Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) · Funded · Promotion points
- Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT-LANA)
- Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)
- Certified User Experience Professional (CUXP)
Career Growth
- ACSM Certified Personal Trainer (ACSM-CPT)
- Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB)
- Certified CrossFit Trainer (CCFT)
- Certified Medical Exercise Specialist (ACE-CMES)
- Certified Personal Trainer (ACE-CPT) · Funded · Promotion points
What the Work Involves
- Instruct, or assist in instructing, patients and families in home programs, basic living skills, or the care and use of adaptive equipment.
- Maintain and promote a positive attitude toward clients and their treatment programs.
- Implement, or assist occupational therapists with implementing, treatment plans designed to help clients function independently.
- Report to supervisors, verbally or in writing, on patients' progress, attitudes, and behavior.
- Monitor patients' performance in therapy activities, providing encouragement.
Related Occupations
- Occupational Therapy Aides
- Physical Therapist Assistants
- Physical Therapist Aides
- Psychiatric Technicians
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Formerly Known As (Legacy)
Retired codes that converted into 68L. Each legacy page documents the cited history.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
Report an error on this page