Are you an undergraduate considering a career in therapy? If so, becoming a Therapeutic Assistant (TA) could be an ideal first step. This role offers invaluable hands-on experience and insight into the world of therapy, making it a perfect bridge between undergraduate studies and graduate school. Our TA positions at Blue Bird Day, Eyas Landing, and Merlin Day Academy are excellent opportunities for undergraduates to learn more about speech, developmental, physical, behavior, and occupational therapy, as well as social work, counseling, and nutrition.
Blue Bird Day, Eyas Landing, and Merlin Day Academy offer a comprehensive Therapeutic Assistant program that is designed to provide undergraduates with a well-rounded experience. Located in West Loop, Northcenter, and Wheaton, Blue Bird Day serves children ages 2-7 through a unique therapeutic model, involving daily therapeutic rotations aimed at supporting children’s growth and development. Eyas Landing is an outpatient therapy clinic in the West Loop that offers individualized sessions of multi-disciplinary therapies to treat children and adolescent’s specific needs. Merlin Day Academy provides special education and multi-disciplinary therapy for children ages 6-14 in the Avondale neighborhood.
Requirements and Responsibilities
To become a TA, candidates typically need to be enrolled in or have completed an undergraduate program in a related field, such as psychology, social work, or education. Responsibilities include assisting licensed therapists, implementing therapeutic activities, and documenting progress. This role demands communication skills, patience, and a genuine passion for helping children.
Unique Opportunities
Working at Blue Bird Day, Eyas Landing, or Merlin Day Academy offers several unique opportunities. TAs get to work closely with a multidisciplinary team, gaining exposure to various therapeutic approaches and techniques. They also have the chance to make a significant impact on the lives of children, helping to set them up for success in future learning environments.
Advantages of a Therapeutic Assistant Position
Practical Experience
One of the biggest advantages of working as a TA is the practical experience you’ll gain. This role allows you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, providing a deeper understanding of therapeutic practices. You’ll work directly with clients, helping them through their therapeutic journeys.
Networking Opportunities
Being a TA also opens doors to valuable networking opportunities. You’ll connect with licensed therapists, educators, and other professionals in the field. These connections can provide mentorship, advice, and potentially even job opportunities in the future. Many of our former TAs have returned after grad school as therapists!
Insight into Various Therapeutic Fields
Another key benefit is the exposure to various therapeutic fields. Whether it’s speech, developmental, physical, behavior, or occupational therapy, as well as social work, counseling, and nutrition, a TA position allows you to explore different areas and decide which one aligns best with your career goals.
Becoming a Therapeutic Assistant at Blue Bird Day, Eyas Landing, or Merlin Day Academy offers undergraduates a unique opportunity to gain practical experience, build valuable connections, and explore different therapeutic fields. This role serves as an excellent steppingstone toward graduate school and a successful career in therapy. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow both personally and professionally! Apply for a Therapeutic Assistant position today!
Blue Bird Day fosters socialization, sensory regulation, and pre-academic learning in children ages 2-7 years in therapeutic rotations that simulate preschool and kindergarten settings. Our compassionate therapists practice a relationship-based and family-centered approach, provide parent training, and collaborate on goals and individualized intensive treatment plans for your child.
We believe in a collaborative and multi-disciplinary team approach to therapy. A team of occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, dietitians, developmental therapists, behavioral therapists, physical therapists, and therapeutic assistants are created for each child to ensure child and family are fully supported and the best possible results are achieved.
Options for individualized, group and virtual therapy sessions are available as well.
Want to learn more or you have a specific question? Feel free to connect with us here!
