Welcome to ConnOTA:
The Connecticut Occupational Therapy Association
Your Community. Your Voice. Your Impact.
We’re the launchpad for Connecticut occupational therapy practitioners, students, and advocates driving real change. Powered by volunteers, we advance advocacy, innovation, and growth—responding to society’s evolving needs and helping people thrive in daily life.
Plug into a statewide movement:
- Access tools, continuing ed, and career-building resources
- Stay in the know on policy changes and professional trends
- Collaborate with changemakers redefining occupational therapy in schools, healthcare, and communities
Be part of the movement...
Scroll down for Advocacy Alerts, OT Meetups, & OT Month Ideas
Advocacy Alert
CMS Ends DSHP/DSIP Funding – ConnOTA Wants to Hear from You
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced it will no longer approve or renew federal funding for Designated State Health Programs (DSHP) and Designated State Investment Programs (DSIP). This decision may directly impact Medicaid-funded services in Connecticut, particularly in behavioral health and community-based care—areas where occupational therapy plays a vital role.
ConnOTA is actively monitoring these developments and their potential effect on OT practice & funding. We encourage members and partners to share how this change could affect your work or the populations you serve.
Please email us at [email protected] to share your perspective.
Learn more from these resources:
AOTA Advocacy Alert
Supporting Educational Services in Connecticut
On March 20th, the President signed an Executive Order directing the closure of the U.S. Department of Education, which could impact key programs like IDEA, ESSA, and Pell Grants, among others, that support both occupational therapy in schools and students in higher education. While this proposal requires congressional approval and is still under discussion, ConnOTA is committed to advocating for the continued support of these critical programs in Connecticut.
We believe in the importance of speaking up. If you see something that could impact occupational therapy services, students, or access to financial resources for future occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants, we encourage you to say something. Your voice matters in protecting these vital services.
Stay informed & get involved! Contact [email protected], visit AOTA’s Legislative Action Center, & read AOTA’s Advocacy News.
Together, we can make a difference.
ConnOTA Advocacy Alerts
Bill Tracking 2025
At ConnOTA, we're tracking key bills during the Connecticut 2025 Legislative Session that could shape the future of our profession. Get involved and help us make a difference by staying informed and taking action. Check out the full list of bills we're watching!
Your voice matters—whether you're supporting, opposing, or raising awareness.
Become informed & make an impact. Reach out to [email protected]
Let’s advocate together!
Modernize CT’s OT Practice Act
Senate Bill 1052: Expanding the scope of OT & OTA practice
2025 Legislative Session: ConnOTA is driving change!
Take Action Today!
Visit our Advocacy Center to stay informed
Write to your legislators using our easy-to-use email templates
Make your voice heard—advocate for OT in Connecticut
Listen to our podcast. Click here to tune in
Get started now! Visit the Advocacy Center
Remove CT OTA & OT Licensing Fees
Senate Bill 1246: An Act Concerning Revenue Items To Implement The Governor's Budget
Removing OT licensing fees could shape the future of our profession.
Attend the Spring Summit to learn more.
Visit our Advocacy Center to stay informed!
Upcoming Membership Event
Join Us for a Fun & Relaxing Paint Night!
Looking for a fun way to unwind, connect with fellow professionals, and expand your network—all in a laid-back setting? Come hang out with us at ConnOTA’s Paint Night! No art skills? No problem! This event is all about creativity, good vibes, and great company.
Whether you're new to the profession or looking to make new connections, this is the perfect chance to relax, chat, and enjoy a stress-free night with like-minded peers. Plus, you’ll leave with your own masterpiece!
April 23, 2025
6:30-8:30 pm
CT State Manchester
Register for Event
Upcoming Advocacy Event
Celebrate Occupational Therapy Month at the Capitol!
Join us on April 25, 2025, from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM in the Legislative Office Building, 2nd floor atrium.
Sign up to staff the table for an hour or more, or stop by to show your support! Help us bring the energy as we showcase how occupational therapy supports people of all ages in doing the things that matter most—from learning and working to self-care and play.
Let’s make a strong, united presence for legislators, staff, and visitors—this is a great chance to share our passion for OT, connect with colleagues and students, and proudly celebrate our profession!
Registration coming soon.
Celebrate Occupational Therapy Month!
Join in the celebration of Occupational Therapy Month throughout April with these fun and engaging ideas:
- Meet-Up Events: Connect with fellow OTs and OTAs at our meet-up events this month. Share stories, network, & celebrate together!
- Decorate Your Office: Display a definition of Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant print showcasing the impact of our profession.
- OT Snack Break: Host a fun “OT Snack” featuring donut holes (O) and iced tea (T) for a sweet treat and casual gathering.
- High 5 Bulletin Board: Create a High 5 board where colleagues and clients can post notes of appreciation for OTs and OTAs.
- Be a Cheerleader: Shout out our profession’s successes on social media or in your community. Let’s spread the word about the great work being done every day!
Let’s come together & celebrate the incredible work of occupational therapists & occupational therapy assistants!
