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?

Gain Hands-On Therapy Experience Before OT Grad School

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.

Locations: CST Academy – Chicago, Wilmette, Northbrook, & Buffalo Grove
Compensation: $20-25/hour
Commitment: 12 months or more

Hear From Our Past Participants

"OTAP was the perfect stepping stone before OT grad school! The hands-on therapy experience gave me so much confidence in my clinical skills." – Emily, Future OT

"Being able to observe OTs, work directly with kids, and receive mentorship from experienced therapists made me feel so much more prepared for grad school!" – Ryan, Former OTAP Participant

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.

Empowering Neurodiverse Children and Building Rewarding Careers | CST Academy

"CST Academy is a great place to work because of the amazing clinicians who work together as a team to make a difference for each of our learners. We prioritize our clinicians' professional growth and make sure that we provide opportunities for both career advancement and professional development. We also recognize the importance of fun, and we take the time to celebrate the seemingly small steps that turn into big milestones for our little ones and their families."