Job Title:         Occupational Therapist Support Specialist

Location:        Ireland  

Job description 

The Occupational Therapist Support Specialist (OTSS) supports the Occupational Therapist in providing therapy and rehabilitation services to patients with physical, mental, or developmental conditions. The role involves assisting in implementing treatment plans, documenting progress, and ensuring patients reach their therapeutic goals. The OTSS works under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist and adheres to international standards of practice in occupational therapy.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist in Treatment Implementation:

  • Collaborate with the Occupational Therapist in executing individualized treatment plans.
  • Guide patients through therapeutic activities and exercises.
  • Monitor and record patient progress, adjusting activities as directed by the Occupational Therapist.

Patient Care and Support:

  • Provide hands-on support and encouragement to patients during therapy sessions.
  • Educate patients and their families on exercises and activities that enhance daily living skills.
  • Ensure a safe and therapeutic environment for all therapy sessions.

Documentation and Record Keeping:

  • Maintain accurate and timely patient records and progress notes.
  • Document patient feedback and observed changes in condition to inform further treatment adjustments.
  • Assist in compiling and preparing reports on patient progress for review by the supervising Occupational Therapist.

Equipment and Resource Management:

  • Prepare and maintain therapy equipment and supplies to ensure readiness for sessions.
  • Demonstrate correct use of therapy tools and equipment to patients and caregivers.
  • Assist in ordering and inventory of therapy supplies as required.

Professional Development and Compliance:

  • Stay informed on current practices, developments, and trends in occupational therapy.
  • Adhere to ethical guidelines, international standards, and legal regulations governing therapy practice.
  • Participate in continuous education and training opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.

Collaboration and Communication:

  • Work collaboratively with healthcare teams, including physicians, nurses, and social workers, to optimize patient care.
  • Communicate clearly and compassionately with patients and their families.
  • Attend and contribute to team meetings and case conferences.

Qualifications:

  • An accredited diploma or degree in Occupational Therapy Support Specialist or a related field.
  • Current certification or licensure as an Occupational Therapist Support Specialist (OTSS) in accordance with local regulations.
  • Basic life support (BLS) certification.

Skills:

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Empathy, patience, and a caring attitude.
  • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  • Effective organizational and time-management skills.

Work Environment:

  • Willingness to work in various settings including hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, or community health organizations.
  • May require physical activity such as lifting, standing, or assisting patients with movements.

This role is vital in delivering quality patient care and enhancing the therapeutic outcomes in diverse healthcare environments.

As a lead Occupational Therapist working with clients who have neurological conditions, the role of an Occupational Therapist Support Specialist (OTSS )is multifaceted and varies based on the setting. Here are key responsibilities across different environments:

In-Home Settings:

  1. Assist in Assessments: Help gather information through observations and standardized tests under the guidance of an Occupational Therapist.
  2. Implement Therapy Plans: Carry out activities designed to enhance motor skills, sensory processing, and adaptive behavior.
  3. Family Education: Guide family members in aiding the client’s sensory processing, adaptive behavior, and daily living skills.
  4. Monitor Progress: Observe and document client responses to therapy activities and provide feedback to the Occupational Therapist.

In Schools:

  1. Support Classroom Integration: Work with students to facilitate participation in classroom activities, adapting materials and environments as needed.
  2. Sensory Integration Activities: Implement sensory-based interventions to help students focus, manage emotions, and enhance learning.
  3. Coordination with Educators: Collaborate with teachers to modify classroom activities, ensuring they meet therapeutic goals.
  4. Reinforcement of Social Skills: Assist students in developing friendships and effective communication through guided role-play and interaction in group activities.

In Clinic or Hospital Settings:

  1. Assist in Therapy Sessions: Support the Occupational Therapist in conducting individualized therapy using techniques like ABA, neurodevelopmental, and kinesiotherapy.
  2. Craniosacral and Auditory Integration Techniques: Aid in implementing gentle, manual therapy methods and auditory programs under supervision.
  3. Therapy Equipment Management: Set up and maintain therapy equipment, ensuring it’s used safely and effectively during sessions.
  4. Administrative Support: Help with scheduling, client intake, and maintaining accurate patient records.

In Community Centres:

  1. Facilitate Group Activities: Lead group sessions focusing on balance, coordination, and social skills development.
  2. Outreach and Education: Participate in community education activities, helping to raise awareness about neurological conditions and therapeutic interventions.
  3. Program Development: Assist in creating and refining programs that address the specific needs of the client population served.

General Responsibilities across Settings:

  • Documentation and Reporting: Accurately record client activities, progress, and any notable observations.
  • Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with other healthcare providers, educators, and family members to ensure a team approach to care.
  • Continuous Education: Engage in ongoing learning opportunities to stay current with therapeutic techniques and approaches.

By employing a combination of techniques from the Brain Development and Balance Model and the Model of Human Occupation, OTSS support the overarching goals of improving functionality, fostering independence, and enhancing quality of life for individuals with neurological conditions.