The New Reality Of Pediatric Occupational Therapy
If you’re feeling anxious about telehealth or even a sense of loss if you’ve been laid off, you’re not alone. This pandemic has been extremely tough on everyone, and I guarantee that you’ll be faced with some pretty tough decisions ahead of you.
Did you ever read those Choose Your Own Adventure Books as a kid? There was always a pivotal point in the story when the main character had to make a choice which led to 1.) a fantastic adventure with an awesome ending or 2.) an adventure with an unfortunate ending.
Fiction aside, the reality is, you have three choices when it comes to telehealth. And the choice you make will not only impact your own career, it will affect the lives of kids who are in great need of your OT services. It’s the same whether you’re working in school based practice, early intervention or outpatient practice… we all have kids that need our help.
#1. Perish: You decide to close your practice or stop working.
#2. Plateau: Your practice holds steady, but doesn’t experience any growth and eventually is at risk of closing over time through attrition or another surge in the pandemic.
#3. Pivot, progress and prosper: You’ve chosen to keep an open mind and are ready for a new adventure.
- You learn all that you can about telehealth and set up systems to run a successful telehealth practice.
- You become more comfortable and confident in your telehealth skills, and you see this translating to progress and improved outcomes in your clients.
- Your students, clients and families take notice that teletherapy is truly making a positive difference in their daily lives.
- Your referral sources are happy to refer you new clients because they’ve taken notice that virtual therapy sessions can be just as effective as in person sessions.
As a pediatric therapist, there is hope that your career can flourish as long as you’re willing to grow. If you have an open mind and are willing to pivot your practice, telehealth can be the beginning of a renewed and fruitful career for you.
With the right continuing education and training, an open attitude and a little practice, I guarantee you, that your OT practice will not only survive… it can thrive.
Think back to the time that you decided to become a pediatric therapist… who was the child that gave you that inspiration? Whether you’re a new grad or a seasoned occupational therapist, your expertise and talent can extend beyond the walls of your brick and mortar building.
The online OT world is waiting for YOU to make an impact. With so many practices shut down and schools closed for in person classes, children are isolated from their usual social networks and supports. In other words, you are needed now more than ever before.
Imagine how many children’s lives you can positively influence by making your services accessible to them through telehealth.
If you’re skeptical or scared of what lies ahead on your future career path, now is the time to pivot to telehealth.
Remember that no great adventure is without some obstacles along the way… If you start off well-prepared with the right training and equipment, you can embark on a new telehealth journey that you’ll find more rewarding than you could have ever imagined.
Adventure awaits… let me be your guide!
FREE TRAINING
- How to tackle the tech (for non-techies).
- How to captivate your client’s attention and keep them engaged!
- Tips for getting your parents and caregivers on board (especially if you wish they were more involved).
FREE Training | AOTA Approved! (1 CEU)
Here’s what other’s have to say about the training…
“Jessica made the introduction to telehealth less intimidating to me. I can now breathe and move forward.” ~ Stephanie OTR/L
“Jessica’s course made me feel more positive and comfortable about telehealth practice. It was practical and actionable; I can use Jessica’s suggestions right away.” ~ Kelli OTR/L
“I just finished watching your course and loved every minute of it! The lessons are very informative and engaging.” ~ Sabrina COTA/L
“The telehealth resources were a hit, so I plan to keep on using them even though I’m back to working with kids in person.” ~ Suzanne OTR/L