Currently, there are no existing laws regulating the supervision of occupational therapists. However, Supervision is an extremely effective process that helps to improve deficiencies while supporting both professional growth and job performance. (Crepeau, Cohn, Boyt-Schnell, 2009). Occupational therapists who take on the role or who are appointed as supervisors take on a variety of tasks. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that a certain degree of quality care is being implemented. Supervisors are not only responsible for day to day management but are also responsible for setting expectations and making sure they are being met. Supervisors provide feedback as they continue to help their fellow OT’s in their professional development. Supervisors should also be aware of the strengths and weaknesses of each OT under them and should promote team problem solving when issues are raised. Supervision is especially helpful for new OT’s and for OT’s who work alone. Supervisors often provide support and develop mentor like relationships with their supervisees'.
Supervision for occupational therapist assistants and aides
While supervision isn't mandatory for OT's, it is mandatory for occupational therapy assistants and aides. Laws regulating the type and amount of supervision vary state by state and can be found on the American Occupational Therapy Association's website.
Click here for a list of state regulations for occupational therapy aides.
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