Standards for Practice

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The College supports the public’s right to safe, competent and ethical care by occupational therapists. A number of documents set out those clear requirements, and together define the expectations of members of the profession. Learn more below.

Ethics

The Code of Ethics defines the way occupational therapists, in all situations, should uphold the integrity of the profession, serve the interests of patients, and act in a manner that justifies public trust.

Code of Ethics

Decision-Making Framework

Competencies

The essential knowledge, skills and judgement needed by occupational therapists in order to practice.

In effect November 2022: Competencies for Occupational Therapists in Canada

Withdrawn and available for reference only: Essential Competencies of Practice For Occupational Therapists in Canada

Standards of Practice

Standards define the level of performance, as a consensus of the profession, which forms the framework for practicing and ensuring continuing competence.

View the Standards of Practice See the complete Standards of Practice.

Standard for Acupuncture

Standard for Assessment and Intervention

Standard for Consent

Standard for Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC)

Standard for the Prevention and Management of Conflicts of Interest

Standard for Professional Boundaries and the Prevention of Sexual Abuse

Standard for Psychotherapy

Standard for Record Keeping

Standard for the Supervision of Students and Occupational Therapy Assistants

Standard for Use of Title

Practice Guidance

Practice guidance documents provide information about specific practice situations or legislation.

Notice: As of June 1, 2023, the updated Standards of Practice apply to all occupational therapists. The College's practice guidance documents, case studies, Q&As, and other materials are currently being updated to reflect these changes.

In case of discrepancies, please refer to the Standards of Practice, 2023 for the most current information. If you have any questions, please contact the College's Practice Resource Service practice@coto.org.

Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 (CYFSA)

Controlled Acts and Delegation

Culture, Equity, and Justice in Occupational Therapy Practice

Discontinuing Services

Discretionary Reporting of Fitness to Drive

Medical Assistance in Dying

Private Practice

Use of Social Media

Virtual Services

Working Within Managed Resources

Guidelines for Working with Third Party Payers