AOTA stands for the American Occupational Therapy Association, which is a member-based organization that exists to support the field of occupational therapy (OT). The AOTA was established in 1917 and is comprised of staff, volunteers, and occupational therapists, who together support the field through advocacy, education, and research.
The AOTA, based in Bethesda, Maryland, estimates around 42,000 members from all 50 states, D.C., Puerto Rico, and around the world.
According to the AOTA’s website, www.aota.org, the AOTA’s major programs and activities are directed toward assuring the quality of occupational therapy services, improving consumer access to health care services, and promoting the professional development of members. The AOTA also forges alliances with other health and education-related organizations such as Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities and the National Institute on Aging, to advocate for collaboration and joint education to enhance the field.
Mission Statement
The American Occupational Therapy Association advances the quality, availability, use, and support of occupational therapy through standard-setting, advocacy, education, and research on behalf of its members and the public.
Vision Statement
The AOTA advances occupational therapy as the preeminent profession in promoting the health, productivity, and quality of life of individuals and society through the therapeutic application of occupation.
As the AOTA approaches 100 years of existence in 2017, the organization has also developed a vision to honor this centennial milestone:
Centennial Vision
We envision that occupational therapy is a powerful, widely recognized, science-driven, and evidence-based profession with a globally connected and diverse workforce meeting society’s occupational needs.
The AOTA is an organization dedicated to the enhancement of the field of occupational therapy and its impact on the betterment of the lives of individuals young and old and their ability to participate in life to the fullest!
