Occupational Therapy University-Like Program Makes Important Impact

Just by attending the occupational therapy university-like program at Centennial College known as Occupational Therapist Assistant & Physiotherapist Assist, students graduate with an Ontario College Diploma as well as the know-how to: communicate appropriately and effectively, through verbal, nonverbal, written and electronic means, with clients, their families, significant others, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and other healthcare providers; participate in the effective functioning of interprofessional healthcare teams; establish, develop, maintain and bring closure to client-centred, therapeutic relationships; document and complete client records in a thorough, objective, accurate and nonjudgmental manner; develop and implement strategies to maintain, improve and promote professional competence; perform effectively through the application of relevant knowledge of health sciences, psychosociological sciences and health conditions; perform functions common to both physiotherapy and occupational therapy practices that contribute to the development, implementation and modification of intervention/treatment plans, under the supervision of and in collaboration with the occupational therapist and/or physiotherapist; and more.

It takes just two years to complete the occupational therapy university-like courses that will give students the above-mentioned capabilities. Applicants must possess at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. In addition, students must also have completed: Compulsory English 12C, or U or skills assessment, or equivalent and Biology 11C or U or equivalent.

Once they are accepted, students enter a mature occupational therapy university-environment that is run by faculty members who ensure that they are provided with the educational tools, training and hands-on experience that is necessary to meet career challenges with enthusiasm, professionalism and current industry knowledge. Among the specific topics covered in this offering are: principles of psychology, anatomy and physiology, the health care system, normal function and movement, issues in health aging, human lifespan development, establishing therapeutic communication, physiotherapy skills – therapeutic modalities and much more. Additional areas of instruction and development include: respect and caring for the uniqueness of individuals, effective communication, critical thinking and decision-making.

To apply what they have learned in their occupational therapy university-like offering, students participate in several fieldwork experiences that provide opportunities for the supervised application of skills in a variety of clinical settings, with a range of client populations. Prior to each program field placement, students are required to: have an annual clear police check with vulnerable sector screening, successfully complete and annual renewal of a recognized course in CPR (Health Care Provider level) as well as a recognized course in Standard First Aid; and obtain a pre-clearance health form by a physician or nurse practitioner stating that the student meets the health requirements of legislated acts, ministry guidelines and agency policies. It is also worth noting that a mask fit testing will be provided by Centennial College (shaving of portion of face may be required to meet safety standards).