Becoming an Assistive Technology provider is a great way to amp up your resume, round out your skill set, and make yourself more marketable.
In many states, an OT does not need any special certification, classes, or certificates to be considered an Assistive Technology provider. If you are considering changing roles but are hesitant to spend the time and money for a “certificate,” review your state education department policies.
The Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) certification is the gold standard for ATP certification. You can learn more about this certification here.
I felt more comfortable calling myself an Assistive Technology Provider after taking a certificate program. I wanted to increase my skill set, but I was hesitant to invest the time or money. Still, I saw a need in my school district. I told my Special Ed director that I was interested in taking a certificate program. We agreed that the district would pay for me to take the course.
Because New York does not require an “ATP” to take the RESNA exam, I chose not to.
Qualifications: You’ve got to meet the work experience requirements to be eligible for the exam. So, if you’re working in the field and have some experience under your belt, you’re on the right track.
There are different pathways to becoming an ATP provider.
- Self-study and take the exam
- Take Assistive Technology CEUs
- Complete an accredited certificate program
Oh, and let’s not forget about the practice test from RESNA. Helping you fine-tune your skills and get comfortable with the ATP exam format. You can find it on their website.
Now, let me drop something more exciting for you–the ATP Exam Flashcard Study System. It’s like the ultimate cheat code to ace the exam. You can find it on Amazon (click this link), and it’s filled with test practice questions and reviews that will have you saying, “ATP exam, I’m coming for you!”
Lastly, a personal touch from my own journey—consider taking a certification class. I went through one at California State University at Northridge, and it was really helpful. It’s not just about passing the exam; it’s about gaining the knowledge and skills that will make you a rockstar ATP.
Hello! Thank you for your information on the Assistive Technology Certification Program. I am an OT working for the schools and in my 27th year in the schools. I have been looking for some new opportunities within the school and have been discouraged due to the lack of growth opportunities. How did The CSUN program work? Were you able to work and still attend the classes? Are the classes in the evening and how many days a week? What is the time commitment per week? Thank you for your insight and willingness to share your experience 🙂
The program was good. It did take some time, but I worked throughout the course. It was a few hours a week of assignments.
How long did it take to receive your certificate of completion from CSUN? The website says 4-8 weeks, but I’m hoping for 5! Would this course work be doable throughout the summer for a school-based OT?