Occupational Therapist - OTR L (Per Diem)

JOB SUMMARY:

Supports children, adolescents, and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). This role ensures the delivery of high-quality,
trauma-informed care in a therapeutic, supportive, and person-centered environment. The
Occupational Therapist is a key member of the interdisciplinary clinical team, responsible for
evaluating, developing, and implementing occupational therapy services for individuals across
residential, educational, and community-based settings. The Occupational Therapist supports
functional independence and sensory integration to improve quality of life.

WORK SCHEDULE:

This is a per-diem position, Monday-Friday / 1st shift

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conducts occupational therapy evaluations and prepares written assessments and
recommendations
• Develops and implements individualized treatment plans and goals aligned with each
person's clinical and academic needs
• Provides direct occupational therapy services to individuals and/or delegates and
supervises treatment administered by Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants
(COTAs)
• Leads both individual and group therapy sessions using evidence-based, therapeutic
techniques
• Maintains appropriate, timely documentation in compliance with agency standards
• Participates in team meetings, including IEPs, Individual Program (IP) meetings, clinical
case reviews, and discharge planning
• Collaborates with interdisciplinary team members (clinicians, educators, family
members, and other providers) to support consistent, effective intervention
• Provides supervision and mentorship to COTAs and/or occupational therapy students, as
assigned
• Ensures therapy services are delivered in a safe, therapeutic, and goal-directed manner
• Maintain active certification in agency-approved crisis intervention training, including all
required levels of Physical and Psychological Management Training (PMT). Apply
training techniques appropriately to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals
served, staff, and others in the environment. Demonstrate competency in de-escalation
strategies, safe physical interventions, and adherence to agency protocols.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Occupational Therapy

SKILLS:

• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Proficiency in documentation, evaluation, and treatment planning
• Ability to develop therapeutic rapport with individuals with complex needs
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Skilled in using sensory integration and adaptive equipment to support therapeutic goals
• Capability to provide effective supervision and feedback to students or assistants
KNOWLEDGE:
• In-depth understanding of sensory processing disorders and developmental disabilities
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care practices
• Working knowledge of therapeutic modalities appropriate for individuals with ASD and
IDD
• Knowledge of state and federal education and healthcare regulations related to therapy
services
• Understanding of the integration of OT in a multidisciplinary treatment model
• Familiarity with IEP development and participation in special education processes

ABILITIES:

• Assess and respond to the sensory, motor, and functional needs of individuals in various
settings
• Maintain professional demeanor in crisis situations
• Travel independently to residential, school, and community settings as needed
• Establish and maintain positive working relationships with families, staff, and external
stakeholders
• Adapt therapeutic approaches to meet individualized needs
• Maintain confidentiality and ethical standards in line with professional licensing bodies

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:

• State of Connecticut Department of Public Health Occupational Therapist
Credential Required.
• Licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR) in the State of Connecticut (or eligible)
• National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification
required
• Experience working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or Intellectual
and Developmental Disabilities preferred
• Sensory integration experience strongly preferred
• Must be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Valid driver’s license with a clean record; ability to transport individuals safely
• Ability to obtain and maintain required certifications (PMT, First Aid, CPR; training
provided)
• Experience working independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
• Ability to work flexible hours based on individual and program needs

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Work is performed across school and group home settings
• May involve crisis response and physical intervention in accordance with training.
• Perform all requirements of physical management techniques (PMT)
• Regular standing, walking, lifting (up to 50 lbs), and active physical engagement required
• Exposure to behavioral challenges and crisis situations requiring PMT interventions
• Travel between locations required