Aspiring OT & ABA Program (OTAP)
Are you preparing to apply for OT graduate school and looking for real-world clinical experience? Do you want paid, hands-on therapy training that strengthens your application while providing valuable skills?
The Aspiring OT & ABA Program (OTAP) at CST Academy is designed for aspiring occupational therapists who want to gain experience in ABA therapy, observe occupational therapy sessions, and develop essential clinical skills—all while working in a leading multidisciplinary therapy clinic. This one-of-a-kind program is your opportunity to build clinical skills, enhance your application, and stand out when applying for grad school.
Why Join OTAP?
- Hands-on ABA therapy experience working directly with children
- Ongoing OT observation opportunities to gain real-world clinical exposure
- 1:1 mentorship from experienced therapists across disciplines
- Grad school prep support (resume reviews, personal statement guidance, mock interviews, and coaching)
- Strong letters of recommendation to boost your application
- Paid employment in a leading multidisciplinary therapy clinic
- A supportive cohort of peers also preparing for OT grad school
- Team Training Days with expert-led workshops & multidisciplinary collaboration
What You’ll Do
Work 1:1 with children as an ABA therapist at our therapy centers
Complete comprehensive ABA training and develop behavior intervention skills
Observe occupational therapy sessions to gain direct exposure to OT techniques
Receive grad school application support through workshops and mentorship
Be part of a dynamic, team-based therapy environment at CST Academy
Who Should Apply?
Recent college graduates planning to apply to OT graduate programs
Career changers or post-bacc students looking to gain hands-on clinical experience before OT grad school
Individuals passionate about working with children in a therapy setting
Candidates looking for paid professional experience in a top multidisciplinary therapy clinic
How to Apply
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with early applicants receiving priority consideration. Click below to apply today and take the first step toward your future as an OT!
Location: CST Academy – Chicago, Wilmette, Northbrook, & Buffalo Grove
Compensation: $20-25/hour
Commitment: 12 months or more
Your Future Starts Here!
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain real-world therapy experience, build connections, and strengthen your grad school application—all while getting paid as an ABA therapist in a top therapy clinic.
Apply Now to join OTAP!
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Hear From A Past Participant
After graduating college, I knew that I wanted to find a job that fit my passion for working with kids but felt a bit lost with exactly what that would mean. CSTA gave me the incredible opportunities to learn about multiple disciplines and observe clinicians who helped guide me towards a path that felt like the perfect next steps for me.
Ella, former OTAP participant