Managing Challenging Situations: Strategies for the Occupational Therapy Practitioner to Improve client Outcomes and Promote

Course overview

When it comes to occupational therapy practitioners working with clients, the goals often revolve around developing specific skills, strategies, and knowledge to effectively manage and address the unique needs these clients. In addition to having the skill set to manage complex cases, OTPs also must be mindful of the fact that clients may have difficulties with underlying emotional issues, dysfunctional family units, inadequate access to care, and cultural differences. These can show up in the clinical settings as poor compliance with treatment, motivation to participate during the sessions, and behavioral issues, often anger that gets misdirected towards the practitioner. These scenarios can lead to unsatisfactory treatment outcomes and have a negative effect on the workplace satisfaction for the OTP, leading to burnout. This course is designed to equip occupational therapy practioners with the knowledge, skills, and strategies necessary to address the complexities of working with challenging clients across diverse practice settings. Challenging clients encompass individuals with a range of cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and physical impairments, whose needs may present unique obstacles to therapeutic progress. Through a combination of theoretical learning, case studies, and practical exercises, participants will gain insights into understanding, engaging, and supporting challenging clients to optimize their occupational performance and quality of life. Target Audience: Occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, occupational therapy studentsThis occupational therapy continuing education course uses the following instructional methods: visual aides (ie slides), discussion board, guided note taking, and learning, and practice opportunities. Presented by: Lynn Festa, OTR, CHT