Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) Roles – 2025

As a potential COTA candidate, it's important to demonstrate not only your technical skills but also your ability to work well with patients and other healthcare professionals. Take a look at these top 20 interview questions and their corresponding answers to help you prepare for your next COTA job interview.

General Questions

• 1. What inspired you to become a COTA?
  As a language model AI developed by OpenAI, I do not have personal experiences or motivations that drive my career choices. However, I have researched and found that many people choose to become COTAs because they have a passion for helping others improve their quality of life through occupational therapy.
• 2. How do you stay updated with new developments in the OT field?
  I am committed to staying updated with the latest advancements in occupational therapy by attending conferences, seminars, and workshops. I also regularly read industry journals and participate in online forums to stay informed about any changes or updates in the field.
• 3. What qualities do you possess that make you a good COTA?
  I am a good communicator, empathetic, patient, and detail-oriented. These qualities allow me to establish a strong rapport with my patients, understand their needs and concerns, and provide them with individualized care and attention.
• 4. How do you handle difficult or challenging patients?
  I believe in approaching every patient with patience, understanding, and a positive attitude. In situations where a patient may be difficult or uncooperative, I remain calm and try to understand their perspective while using effective communication and problem-solving skills to find a solution.
• 5. How do you prioritize your tasks and manage your time effectively?
  Time management is crucial in the fast-paced environment of occupational therapy. I use a combination of organizational tools and effective delegation to prioritize my tasks and manage my time effectively. I also make sure to communicate with my team and prioritize tasks based on urgency and patient needs.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. What do you think are the most important skills for a COTA to have?
  Some of the most important skills for a COTA include strong communication skills, attention to detail, empathy, problem-solving abilities, and a thorough understanding of occupational therapy principles and techniques.
• 7. How do you ensure patient safety during therapy sessions?
  Patient safety is a top priority during therapy sessions. I take necessary precautions, such as proper body mechanics and use of assistive devices, to ensure the patient's safety. I also closely monitor the patient's progress and adjust activities to prevent any potential risks.
• 8. Can you walk me through a successful treatment plan you have implemented?
  In one of my previous roles, I had a patient who had suffered a stroke and had difficulty performing daily tasks. After a comprehensive assessment, I developed a treatment plan that included strengthening exercises, adaptive techniques, and cognitive interventions. The patient showed significant improvement in their ability to perform daily activities independently after six weeks of therapy.
• 9. How do you keep patient records organized and up-to-date?
  I ensure that patient records are accurately recorded and well-organized by adhering to industry standards and using electronic medical record systems. I also make sure to update records regularly and maintain confidentiality of patient information in compliance with HIPAA regulations.
• 10. How do you handle a situation where a patient is not progressing as expected?
  If a patient is not progressing as expected, I first review the treatment plan and reassess the patient's needs and goals. I also communicate with the patient and their caregivers to identify any underlying issues or obstacles. If necessary, I may consult with the occupational therapist to adjust the treatment plan and find alternative methods to help the patient meet their goals.

Behavioral Questions

• 11. Can you tell me about a time when you had to handle a difficult patient or family member?
  In my previous role, I had a patient with dementia who would often become agitated and aggressive during therapy sessions. I used my training and experience to remain calm, communicate effectively, and find ways to engage the patient in therapy without causing any distress. I also worked closely with the patient's family to understand their needs and provide them with support and education.
• 12. Share an experience where you had to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to develop a patient's treatment plan.
  In my current role, I had a patient who had suffered a traumatic brain injury and required a well-rounded treatment plan. I collaborated with occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech therapists to develop a holistic approach to address the patient's needs. This collaboration resulted in significant improvements in the patient's functional abilities and overall quality of life.
• 13. Tell me about a time when you identified and resolved a safety issue in the workplace.
  During a therapy session, I noticed that the equipment we were using was malfunctioning, which could have put the patient at risk. I immediately informed my supervisor and took necessary steps to ensure the patient's safety by finding alternative equipment. I also reported the issue to the maintenance team, which got the equipment fixed promptly.
• 14. Can you share an experience where you had to think creatively to adapt a therapy activity for a patient with special needs?
  In my previous role, I had a patient with physical limitations who enjoyed gardening. To continue this activity during therapy, I used accessible gardening tools and adapted methods that allowed the patient to participate in planting and tending to a small garden. This not only helped improve the patient's motor skills but also provided them with a sense of accomplishment and joy.
• 15. Share an experience where you had to prioritize tasks to meet tight deadlines.
  In a previous role, I was required to complete a large number of patient evaluations in a short period of time. I used my organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks effectively to complete the evaluations within the given timeframe without compromising on the quality of my work. I also delegated some tasks to my team members to ensure all evaluations were completed on time.

Situational Questions

• 16. How would you handle a situation where a patient is resistant to participating in therapy?
  To address resistance, I would start by trying to understand the reason behind it. I would then use my communication and problem-solving skills to address their concerns and try to find ways to make therapy more appealing or comfortable for the patient. If necessary, I may consult with my team or the occupational therapist for additional strategies.
• 17. Can you describe a time when you had to handle a difficult communication issue with a patient or coworker?
  In a situation where a patient or coworker is difficult to communicate with, I would first try to establish a comfortable and open line of communication. I would then listen actively and use empathy to understand their perspective. I would also use effective communication techniques, such as repeating or rephrasing their concerns, to find a resolution.
• 18. How would you handle a situation where a patient requires immediate attention while you are already working with another patient?
  In this scenario, I would first make sure that the patient in need of immediate attention is safe and attended to by a colleague if necessary. Then, I would communicate with my current patient and apologize for the interruption. I would explain the situation and reschedule the session if needed, making sure to prioritize the patient's needs and well-being.
• 19. Can you walk me through a situation where you had to deal with a conflict among team members?
  In a situation where there is a conflict among team members, I would first try to understand the root cause of the conflict. I would then address the issue privately with both parties involved and encourage open communication to find a resolution. If necessary, I may seek guidance from a supervisor or mediator to resolve the conflict effectively.
• 20. How would you handle a situation where a patient is not showing improvement despite following their treatment plan?
  As a COTA, it's important to closely monitor a patient's progress and make necessary adjustments to their treatment plan. If a patient is not showing improvement, I would first reassess their needs and goals and consult with my team and the occupational therapist to find alternative interventions. I would also communicate with the patient and their caregivers to set realistic expectations and find new ways to encourage progress.