Did you start something new recently? Maybe you’re a new grad just getting into the occupational therapy field, or maybe you just recently changed practice settings. Or maybe you recently started working with a new client who is, for lack of a better word, challenging.
Check out these tips from your OT colleagues on how to not get overwhelmed.
Tip 1: Ask for Help!
Never be afraid to ask for help—from another OT or even other coworkers. We are in a profession that likes to help!
-Lori Derrick Blalock
Look for opportunities to network with others—so many great options in person or online that can help provide resources and encouragement, and grow you as a therapist.
-Jennifer Huff
You know more than you think! Trust in your education, be open to new ideas, and constantly ask questions.
-Dana Dubois
We suggest: Asking for help is easy here on CommunOT. Login, search for your topic and see if it’s already being discussed. Post your own question and give back by answering others’ questions.
Tip 2: Always Keep Learning
Always look for an opportunity to learn something new in OT. After 22 years I am still learning.
-Tamara Patton
Observe other therapist as much as you can to get ideas.
-Christina Komaniecki
Start a 3 ring binder to keep track of CEU activities. Keep a brochure from the class in the page protector with the certificate and organize by date. Makes it easier to renew registration, licensure, and if you are ever audited.
-Amanda Rene' Hornsby
We suggest: Look at books and CE courses on the AOTA store, check out our upcoming conferences, and register for the monthly Member Appreciation Plus webinars.
Tip 3: Get Organized
Take time at the end of the day to plan ahead for the next day. Always have a plan A, B, C, and possibly D for your treatments because anything can change. So be flexible.
-Rachel Giese
As a new graduate and practitioner time management and organization have been absolute key for success. Take the extra time before patients or at the end of the day to get organized for the next day coming.
-Brooke Kelley
Jot down some tx ideas for the next time you see your client right after you do your daily tx note.
-Anna Cieslewicz Sullivan
If you are a school-based OT, for each month have a list in your planner or calendar of all your IEP and evaluation deadlines for all the students on your caseload. This will help you know what's coming and help you stay on top of paperwork, which as we all know is a constant battle
-Jessica Hicks
We suggest: Reading these ten tips for organizing your work, car, and office.
Tip 4: Take Care of Yourself
Therapeutic use of self just may be the best tool in your toolbox-—just don't forget your own self care in order to refresh that tool.
-Amy Lewis-Endres
Self-care: If we can't look out for ourselves we can't look out for others. So many times clinicians (myself included) just power through, sometimes we just need that mental health day. Don't be afraid to take it. You'll come back ready to work and be your best!
-Rachael Wallens
Take a breath if you need it. To have a career in OT, one must have very good patience…If you feel like your patience is beginning to run low, take a deep breath and let it out slowly as many times as you need. It will help!
-Tessa Kelsick
Always find a way to unwind at the end of the day!
-Blima Weill
Start each morning writing down three things you are grateful for! It will stick with you for the whole day and make you so much better at your job.
-Caitlyn Rask
We suggest: Reading this OT Practice article about identifying the warning signs of burnout and what to do about it. Watching these webinar recordings about being mindful and taking care of yourself.
Tip 5: Be Ready and Willing to Promote OT
Always have ready a well-rehearsed definition of Occupational Therapy, how it is different than PT, and why your patient needs it. Advocate for the profession!
-Stephanie Holder
Wear OT-themed clothing so that you can explain that "OT doesn't just mean overtime at work or in sports." My non-OT husband even has a couple of OT shirts and shared license plates on our cars—he can provide a definition of OT to anyone who asks!
-Deborah Kratz
When in doubt, always buy the OT themed clothes!
-Alexa Layne
We suggest: Checking out our OT Month section on our website for OT-themed products and ideas for promoting the profession,
TIp 6: Realize You Won’t Know Everything
When I was a student an OT mentor told me that it is ok if you don't know everything as a new practitioner (sometimes it feels like you don't know anything!). Patients remember how you made them feel more than any specific tips and tricks, so just remember to stay humble, patient, positive and client-centered. The rest will come and everyone is always still learning!
-Emily Maack Saucier
We suggest: having a positive attitude like Emily! :)