Latest news with #Occupational
The Hindu
27-04-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Career in Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy (OT) is a client-centred health profession focused on promoting health and well-being through meaningful activities, referred to as 'occupations', which include tasks related to self-care, work, leisure, and community participation. OT addresses physical, mental, developmental, or emotional challenges stemming from disabilities, injuries, illnesses, or age-related conditions. The ultimate goal is to help individuals of any age develop, regain, or maintain skills that gives them independent and fulfilling lives. Education and skills To begin with, complete Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology and follow it with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (BOT). This involves 4.5 years of classroom learning and six months of mandatory internship. Advanced specialisations include Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) or doctoral studies, apart from specialised certifications in areas such as sensory integration therapy, hand therapy, or neurodevelopmental techniques. Beyond technical expertise, occupational therapists require a diverse set of skills that encompass functional and emotional intelligence. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as OTs work closely with patients, their families, and multidisciplinary teams. Empathy is a key attribute, as therapists must understand and respond to the challenges faced by individuals from different backgrounds. Problem-solving abilities are needed to tailor therapy plans to individual needs. Creativity and adaptability can help create innovative solutions in resource-limited settings. Motivating and encouraging clients requires emotional resilience, patience, and deep commitment to their well-being. Cultural sensitivity is required to cater to India's diverse linguistic, economic, and social landscape. Organisational skills are necessary to manage therapy sessions, documentation, and home-based care programmes effectively. Knowledge of assistive devices and rehabilitation technologies is increasingly relevant to implement practical solutions that enhance mobility and daily functioning. Collaboration with physiotherapists, speech therapists, and educators further strengthens the impacts. Career growth In India, occupational therapists must register with the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) and the All India Occupational Therapists' Association (AIOTA). OT provides therapists with the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to individuals' lives, as they regain independence and confidence. The role demands resilience and patience, but the breakthroughs offer a profound sense of achievement. Occupational therapy provides a continuous learning experience, as every patient brings a new challenge, encouraging therapists to think critically, refine their techniques, and grow personally and professionally. The diversity of cases and settings ensures that OTs remain engaged and motivated. Further, the collaborative nature of the job — working alongside doctors, educators, psychologists, and social workers — fosters a strong professional support system. Beyond clinical practice, OT allows professionals to advocate for inclusivity and accessibility in various spheres, including education, workplace accommodations, and public infrastructure and to contribute to a more equitable society. T The scope of occupational therapy is expanding in India due to increased awareness of rehabilitation and wellness services. Therapists can specialise in paediatrics, geriatrics, or hand therapy, transition into leadership roles, or pursue opportunities in research and academia. Entrepreneurship in private practice or consultancy services, such as ergonomic assessments, is another promising avenue. At its core, OT is about unlocking potential and empowering individuals lead meaningful lives. It is not just about physical rehabilitation; it is about restoring hope, dignity, and a sense of purpose. The writers are occupational therapists at The Association of People with Disability.
Yahoo
10-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Hawaii Pacific University opens first mainland campus in Las Vegas
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Hawaii Pacific University brings the Aloha spirit to Las Vegas with its new campus in the southwest valley. The expansion of the Hawaii Pacific University represents a significant milestone in the University's 60-year history – marking its first campus on the U.S. mainland. 'To be able to bring Hawaii Pacific University here to Las Vegas, which some call the 9th island… we're just happy that we can contribute to the community, build the capacity of healthcare across the region,' Tricia Catalino, Dean of Graduate College of Health Sciences, said. Shaquilla King is a part of the university's inaugural class. A graduate of UNLV, King is earning her doctorate at Hawaii Pacific University with plans to become a pediatric occupational therapist. 'It's been an experience,' King said. 'I feel like getting to see the foundation being built was amazing. We didn't start off here, but finishing here, and seeing the program develop over this short amount of time has been an experience. I love it.' The Las Vegas campus features facilities designed to support the University's Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs. Among its features is an Activities of Daily Living (ADL) suite, equipped with a kitchen, living room, and bathroom, designed to provide real-world training for OTD students. Additionally, specialized lab spaces designed for the DPT program promote interprofessional education and collaboration, equipping students to address the evolving healthcare challenges of the future. 'These are our two healthcare-centric programs that we're starting here in Las Vegas because of the great need in this region for healthcare providers, especially physical and occupational therapists,' Catalino said. The university also offers a hybrid learning experience, allowing students to engage in online coursework and hands-on lab experiences. 'We really feel that it is an accessible way to learn,' Catalino said. 'We offer hybrid health science programs which allow our students to learn from home or wherever they might be and then come to Las Vegas to have hands-on learning during their lab-based immersions.' Hawaii Pacific University is now accepting applications for its August program. Financial aid and veteran benefits are available. To learn more about the Las Vegas OTD program, click here, and to learn more about the Las Vegas DPT program, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
