What is TOTA?

The Texas Occupational Therapy Association (TOTA) is a non-profit professional association incorporated in Texas. TOTA is an affiliate of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.

The Texas Occupational Therapy Association was established for the benefit of professionals and students of occupational therapy. Membership services include public relations materials, legislative advocacy & information, practice forums, educational meetings, continuing education, volunteer and professional development, and student services. 

The mission of the TOTA is to be responsive to the professional development, information needs, and educational requirements of its members; to advance and improve the practice of occupational therapy for the benefit of the consumers; and to anticipate and respond to the organizational, political, economic and social features of the health care delivery system at the local, state and national levels.

The Goals of TOTA are to:

  • Serve the Membership
  • Serve the Profession and the Consumer It Serves
  • Maintain a Viable Organization Which Supports Its Purpose, Objectives and Functions

The History of TOTA

An organizational meeting was held in Dallas, Texas in the spring of 1936, to form an association of Texas occupational therapists. Five therapists convened the first official meeting at the Melrose Hotel in April, 1936. TOTA was officially incorporated on October 12, 1973.

For more information about the Association's history click here 
History Video by Esther Bell and Kathlyn Reed 
PowerPoint for educational purposes

TOTA Past Presidents

The first president of TOTA was Jayne E. Myers from 1936-1938.  Jayne was the Director of Occupational Therapy at Scottish Rite Hospital.
For a complete list of TOTA's past presidents click here