What is the appropriate use of titles by occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants?
New York State licenses occupational therapists and certifies occupational therapy assistants. Since an occupational therapist must pass the national certification examination to become licensed, almost all licensed occupational therapists hold the designation “OTR.” It is common practice for these individuals to sign their names using the title “OTR/L,” where the “R” refers to national certification and the “L” refers to state licensure. However, there is no requirement in New York State that licensed occupational therapists be registered nationally. Licensed occupational therapists who are not nationally registered would use the title “OT/L.” In addition, occupational therapy assistants need not be certified nationally but must be certified by the New York State Education Department. New York does not require occupational therapy assistants to pass the national certification examination. Most occupational therapy assistants do, however, take and pass the national certification exam a
