Primary Purpose:
Provide safe and effective therapeutic intervention to maximize physical or mental functioning, increase independent functioning, and/or adjust to disabilities; all under the supervision of an occupational therapist. (if an assistant)
Qualifications:
Education/Certification:
Master’s degree in occupational therapy or related program
Associate’s degree in Applied Science (Occupational Therapy Assistant Program- if assistant)
Valid Texas license as an occupational therapy assistant issued by the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners (TBOTE)
Special Knowledge/Skills:
Ability to implement occupational therapy treatment programs as specified by occupational therapy plan of care
Knowledge of rehabilitation procedures, activities, and equipment used in occupational therapy
Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior
Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Experience: Minimum of six months experience in occupational therapy and working with children.
Major Responsibilities and Duties:
Therapy (under the supervision of an occupational therapist if assistant)
1. Provide occupational therapy services as specified in the occupational therapy plan of care. Plan and provide direct and consultative services consistent with occupational therapy goals contained in students’ Individual Education Plans (IEP). Evaluate student progress and make recommendations regarding occupational therapy services.
2. Collect data according to established procedures to assist occupational therapist in screening students as possible candidates for occupational therapy services. Assist occupational therapist to revise short-term patient goals.
3. Design, construct, alter, and provide students with adaptive equipment and devices to promote
maximum independence.
4. Assess students with disabilities and determine eligibility for services.
5. Assist with instructing teachers, staff, and parents in use of adaptive equipment, assistive technology programs or devices, and integration of therapy goals into the educational program.
6. Interact with student patient regarding patient’s condition, progress, and/or achievement of goals during each treatment session.
7. Communicate with parents regarding individual students as directed by the occupational therapist.
Consultation (under the supervision of an occupational therapist if assistant)
8. Present staff development in assigned school as requested.
Student Management
9. Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the maturity level, interests, and needs of the student.
10. Establish control and administer discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.
Program Management
11. Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with the interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and goal setting for students according to district procedures.
12. Under the supervision of an occupational therapist, develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the occupational therapy program and implement changes based on the findings.