Ayla Smith
Fallbrook,CA
Summary
Healthcare professional with solid background in therapeutic support and patient care. Proven ability to implement effective treatment plans and improve patient mobility. Reliable team collaborator, adaptable to dynamic healthcare environments, with strong skills in communication and patient interaction.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA/L)
Pacific Villas Post Acute
Oceanside, CA
09.2025 - 02.2026
- Licensed Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) with extensive experience in post-acute and skilled nursing facility (SNF) settings, providing evidence-based interventions to help patients regain independence and improve quality of life after illness, injury, or surgery. Skilled in collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement individualized treatment plans addressing physical, cognitive, and psychosocial needs. Strong background in documentation, restorative care, and discharge planning, with a focus on functional outcomes, patient safety, and regulatory compliance. Known for compassionate patient care, strong communication skills, and a commitment to supporting optimal recovery and functional independence.
- Utilized assistive devices to promote independence and improve functional mobility of patients.
- Documented patient responses and progress accurately to ensure compliance with care standards.
- Participated in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient care strategies and treatment effectiveness.
- Collaborated with supervising Occupational Therapists to evaluate treatment effectiveness, making necessary adjustments for optimal results.
- Managed caseloads effectively while maintaining a focus on quality care delivery for each patient served.
COTA/L
Alliant Home Health
Broomfield, CO
12.2024 - 06.2025
- Provided direct patient care under the supervision of an occupational therapist, assisting with therapeutic exercises and activities
- Collaborated with occupational therapists to develop goals and strategies for each patient's rehabilitation journey
- Instructed patients in proper use of adaptive equipment and assistive devices to enhance independence in daily activities
- Implemented individualized treatment plans to address patients' physical, cognitive, and emotional needs
- Assisted patients in improving their range of motion, strength, coordination, balance, and functional abilities through therapeutic exercises
- Evaluated patients' progress regularly by conducting assessments and documenting objective data for review by the occupational therapist
- Educated patients and their families on adaptive equipment usage techniques to enhance independence in daily activities
- Ensured a safe environment for both patients and staff by implementing infection control measures according to established protocols
- Collaborated with insurance companies regarding pre-authorization requests, coverage limitations, and reimbursement processes
- Provided guidance on home modifications/adaptations to promote independent living and safety for clients with physical disabilities
- Provided emotional support and encouragement to patients during their rehabilitation journey, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Solace Pediatric Healthcare
Castle Rock, CO
03.2024 - 12.2024
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary healthcare team members to develop comprehensive care plans for patients based on their specific goals and needs
- Educated patients and their families on adaptive equipment usage techniques to enhance independence in daily activities
- Supported pediatric clients with developmental delays or disabilities through play-based interventions aimed at enhancing sensory integration skills
- Implemented sensory integration techniques/approaches for children/adults with sensory processing disorders, facilitating improved self-regulation skills
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Optimal Health Care Inc
Castle Rock, CO
10.2023 - 03.2024
- Provided emotional support and encouragement to patients during their rehabilitation journey, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship
- Aided geriatric clients in maintaining their independence and quality of life by addressing age-related challenges such as arthritis, balance issues, and cognitive decline
- Demonstrated proficiency in using assistive technology devices/software (e.g., adaptive computer keyboards/mice, voice recognition software) to enhance accessibility for individuals with physical limitations
- Conducted home visits to assess environmental factors impacting patients' ability to perform daily tasks and provided recommendations for modifications/accommodations
- Supported patients with neurological conditions (e.g., stroke, brain injury) in regaining functional independence through therapeutic interventions
- Maintained accurate documentation of patient treatments, progress notes, billing information, and other relevant records in compliance with legal requirements
- Assisted patients in improving their range of motion, strength, coordination, balance, and functional abilities through therapeutic exercises
Caregiver
Golden Care
Oceanside, CA
12.2019 - 09.2020
- Helped clients manage money, pay bills and shop for groceries and personal items.
- Maintained clean personal areas and prepared healthy meals to support client nutritional needs.
- Engaged patients in meaningful conversation, socialization and activity while providing personal care assistance.
- Help patients care for themselves by teaching proper and safe use of ambulation assistive devices such as canes, or walkers.
Kitsap Home Care Services
Bremerton, WA
09.2017 - 03.2019
- Planned healthy meals, purchased ingredients and cooked meals to provide adequate nutrition for client wellbeing.
- Entertained, conversed and read aloud to keep patients mentally alert.
- Provide safe mobility support to help patients move around personal and public spaces.
Education
Associate of Science - Occupational Therapy
Pima Medical Institution
San Marcos, CA04-2022
Skills
- Functional mobility training
- Geriatric rehabilitation
- Alzheimer's Care
- Sensory integration
- Range of motion improvement
- Fall prevention strategies
- Collaborative teamwork
- Fine motor skills development
- Stroke recovery assistance
Certification
- Dementia care certification
- Occupational Therapy Assistant License
- CPR Certification
- First Aid Certification
Timeline
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA/L)
Pacific Villas Post Acute
09.2025 - 02.2026
COTA/L
Alliant Home Health
12.2024 - 06.2025
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Solace Pediatric Healthcare
03.2024 - 12.2024
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Optimal Health Care Inc
10.2023 - 03.2024
Caregiver
Golden Care
12.2019 - 09.2020
Kitsap Home Care Services
09.2017 - 03.2019
Associate of Science - Occupational Therapy
Pima Medical Institution