Occupational Therapist Job Description Template

Use this Occupational Therapist job description template to advertise the open roles for free using Longlist.io. You can use this template as a starting point, modify the requirements according the needs of your organization or the client you are hiring for.

Job Brief

We are looking for a committed and patient-focused Occupational Therapist to develop, recover or maintain the daily living and work skills of people with physical, mental or developmental conditions.

You will offer effective and client-centered services that will enable people to confidently and independently carry out everyday tasks or activities. The successful candidate will have an holistic perspective and will be able to adapt the environment to fit the person.

Responsibilities

  • Address client’s aspects of performance to support engagement in occupations that affect health, well-being and life quality
  • Select and adapt the appropriate per case occupational therapy treatment model, method and approach to direct the process of interventions
  • Apply interventions to maximize safety and performance in activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL)
  • Teach clients new ways of approaching tasks and educate them on how to break down activities into achievable components
  • Assess client’s home and other environments and advice on alterations consistent with their needs and capabilities
  • Recommend adaptive equipment and train in its use
  • Guide and educate family members and caregivers
  • Observe, note, and report on progress of long and short term treatment goals
  • Collect data and document processes followed
  • Regularly follow-up client

Requirements

  • Proven working experience as Occupational Therapist
  • Excellent knowledge of principles and practices of occupational therapy
  • Hands-on experience with computer programs and creative media
  • Familiarity with ADLs evaluation tools ( e.g. Katz ADL scale, Lawton IADL scale)
  • Ability to manage patients with different types of personalities
  • Current knowledge of treatment practices per discipline and drive to continually learn and grow in the profession
  • Professional behaviour
  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills
  • Valid licence to practice occupational therapy
  • BS degree or greater in occupational therapy

What does Occupational Therapist do?

A Occupational Therapist (OT) typically performs the following tasks on a day-to-day basis:

  1. Assessing clients: OTs evaluate clients to understand their physical, cognitive, mental, and social capabilities and limitations. They may use various assessment tools and techniques to determine their needs.

  2. Developing treatment plans: Based on their assessments, OTs create personalized treatment plans that address the specific goals and needs of their clients. These plans may include activities, exercises, and interventions to help clients improve their abilities and daily functioning.

  3. Providing therapy sessions: OTs conduct one-on-one or group therapy sessions with clients using a variety of techniques and interventions. They may work on improving fine motor skills, coordination, balance, cognitive abilities, and independence in activities of daily living.

  4. Assisting with adaptive equipment: OTs may recommend and provide training on the use of assistive devices and equipment, such as wheelchairs, splints, adaptive utensils, and aids for personal care, to improve clients' independence and safety.

  5. Collaborating with other healthcare professionals: OTs work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, physical therapists, speech therapists, and psychologists, to coordinate care and ensure a holistic approach in addressing clients' needs.

  6. Educating clients and caregivers: OTs provide education and training to clients and their families on techniques, strategies, and exercises that can be implemented at home to support progress and enhance independence.

  7. Documenting and reporting: OTs maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of client assessments, progress, and treatment plans. They may also provide reports and updates to other healthcare professionals, insurance companies, and referral sources.

  8. Conducting research and staying updated: OTs continuously engage in professional development, staying updated on advancements in the field, attending conferences, and participating in research to enhance their knowledge and provide evidence-based interventions.

It's important to note that the specific tasks may vary depending on the work setting, client population, and individual needs.