What are the responsibilities and job description for the Occupational Therapist position at Ability Beyond?
At Ability Beyond, we discover, build and celebrate the ability in all people. Our organization is dedicated to empowering every person, no matter their ability, to have the opportunity to live, work and thrive as an integral part of their community. Our goal is to enhance independence, improve quality of life, and promote inclusion in the community. We are seeking a compassionate Occupational Therapist (OT) to join our team and the people we serve achieve their fullest potential.
Location: Bethel/Greater Danbury Area
Schedule: Monday-Friday 24-30 hours flex
Job Responsibilities:
- Conducts comprehensive evaluations which may include sensory motor skills, functional cognitive abilities, and mobility as related to an individual’s ability to perform activities of daily living, instrumental living skills, work, leisure or community participation
- Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams and staff to create individuals treatment plans focusing on person centered goals.
- Adapts activities and environments to maximize an individual’s independence and safety. (ie: assistive technology, modifications, splints, adaptive equipment, and alarms as needed)
- Performs exercises related to upper extremities to improve functional performance. Establishes home exercise programs for direct care staff as indicated.
- Evaluates and make recommendations to address safety, ensuring proper equipment use to prevent entrapment, falls, or other injuries. (ie: beds, bed rails, transfer equipment, shower chairs and other types of chairs)
- Evaluates and addresses wheelchair-related needs, including proper fit, posture, and mobility. Collaborates with vendors and seating specialists to recommend and secure appropriate wheelchairs, cushions, and positioning aids. Educate staff on safe wheelchair use and maintenance.
- Directs the modification of equipment (i.e. wheelchairs and hospital beds), alarms, and environment to promote safety and mitigate risks.
- Conducts routine assessments to monitor progress and modify interventions accordingly.
- Assists with and provide education, training and support to individuals, staff and families on: personal care, therapeutic techniques, adaptive equipment use and safety measures, i.e. proper positioning, to promote participation and prevent injury.
- Maintains accurate and timely documentation in compliance with organizational and regulatory requirements.
- Prepares for, and participates in, team conferences, staff meetings, or other meetings as necessary.
- Assists in Occupational Therapy equipment and supply inventory and general upkeep of treatment areas.
Requirements:
- Licensure: Must hold and maintain current, valid state licensure as an Occupational Therapist in Connecticut. Must participate in continuing education activities to promote personal and professional development as per OT CT Licensing requirements.
- Experience: 1 year of Occupational Therapy work experience required. Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or intellectual in a clinical, school, or community-based setting and familiarity with relevant assistive technology and adaptive equipment preferred.
- Travel Expectations: Must be able to travel to various group homes in the surrounding community and other assigned locations. Must participate in continuing education activities to promote personal and professional development as per OT CT Licensing requirements.
Why should you join our team:
- Extensive paid training
- Professional growth and promotional opportunities
- Medical, dental, vision coverage plans
- Generous paid time off packages
- Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness program https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service
- A culture of appreciation and inclusion
- An opportunity to have a positive impact in the lives of others.
