Occupational Therapy Assistant

SUMMARY:

***This position is located in Sioux Falls, SD.***

Call to Freedom is committed to identifying and responding to the needs of individuals at-risk of human trafficking and sexual exploitation and those working to transition out. The Occupational Therapy Assistant’s or entry-level Occupational Therapist’s purpose is to identify needs, implement strategies, and coordinate individualized services for victims and survivors. This position will specialize in providing Occupational Therapy techniques according to evidence-based trauma informed practices under the supervision of the Director of Program Development & Occupational Therapy. Key tasks include conducting supportive intake and screening processes, facilitating referrals, coordinating services with case management, employment specialists, and housing navigator, and ongoing implementation of occupational therapy practices with clients.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• Associates degree or higher in Occupational Therapy Assistant.
• Experience working with victims of violence, trafficking, trauma, mental health, and/or substance abuse helpful.
• Must have current SD license in Occupational Therapy Assistant and NBCOT certificate.
• Training in trauma-informed care is beneficial; willing to be trained upon hire if applicable.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Flexible, self-directed, and responsive.
• Willing to travel to and work with state community partners.
• This position is FT-nonexempt, must be able to adapt to flexible scheduling, including evening hours per client need.

CERTIFICATION, LICENSURE AND/OR REGISTRATIONS:

• Occupational Therapy Assistant must have current SD license in Occupational Therapy Assistant and NBCOT certificate.
• Entry-level Occupational Therapist must have current SD license in Occupational Therapy and NBCOT certificate.
• The ability to obtain and retain a valid driver’s license and motor vehicle insurance.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND JOB DUTIES:

• Conduct initial and ongoing screenings and assessments in order to work with individuals, recognizing needs for safety, autonomy, and confidentiality.
• Assist case managers with emergency/crisis assessments and de-escalating strategies as needed to assist clients with anxiety reduction.
• Provide responsive and timely service to individuals. Provide regular occupational therapy services for clients and gather data to support evidence-based practices for trauma-affected clients.
• Work with Marissa’s House and Outreach (jail/prison, halfway house, homeless shelters, and D.V. shelters) clients which include rural communities to develop and implement individualized case management goals and plans.
• Maintain documentation and records as appropriate.
• Work with the team and clients to assist with treatment plans/goals.
• Work with the team to maintain a healthy, clean, positive “home” environment at Marissa’s House as needed.
• Coordinate & schedule individual sessions with clients.
• Implement Occupational Therapy plan formed with Director of Program Development and Occupational Therapy to carry out individual client goals.
• Collect client data utilizing the Canadian Occupational Performance Measures Tool (COPM) and other assessments and administer as needed to measure client overall satisfaction and efficiency with activities of daily living.
• Participate in CTF joint research projects for program development.
• Assist with training staff, community partners and volunteers on OT services.
• Participate in trauma trainings to community partners and staff.
• Coordinate group OT sessions for clients residing in community shelters.
• Educate and encourage transitional housing options.
• Other duties as assigned, which may include out of scope and practices as agency needs.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS: The individual must be able to work the hours specified above. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required to perform these essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions so long as the accommodations do not cause undue hardship to the employer.