Let’s talk about lessons learned! I definitely wish I knew these tips when I was a new graduate.
A Very Important Reminder
- It’s not that you’re bad at this, you are NEW at this. Transitions, even positive ones, can be difficult. Know that it can take time to navigate new documentation systems, establish relationships with new clients, and manage treatment plans. Every client, every family is unique, so make space for that!
- Be honest with your needs and areas of growth. Ask about the pace of the setting that you plan to work in, common diagnoses, mentorship & learning opportunities, as well as expectation on hours & scheduling. Do you enjoy setting your own hours, prefer an established schedule, or able to be on the go & change routine quickly? These are great areas to consider.
- Take opportunities to learn about feeding interventions, sensory processing, emotional regulation & executive functioning. It will be helpful in the long run!
- Listen & Be Intentional. Ask about caregiver and client concerns, and check in periodically to make sure that everyone is on the same page. Pediatric therapies can be completely new and at times stressful for families, so don’t assume that everything will make sense the first time. Present yourself as a support for families and not as a sole expert. Even strategies that work in a clinical or school setting, may be more difficult to implement at home, so work together to find feasible and applicable interventions. As you listen and get to know different families, you’ll learn how to collaborate and interact with different parenting styles as well!
- If it’s not a matter of ethics or safety, don’t take negative or constructive feedback too personal. Families may switch therapists or leave altogether. It happens and it isn’t just you. Learn how you can improve for future clients, or just simply know that everyone has personal preferences and different personalities, and that’s ok. It’s truly important to have a growth mindset in this profession!
- Always Continue Learning! Collaborate and learn from other therapists and work together when you can! Take continuing education courses and attend conferences. Seek mentorship and community with other peers, even if they are not in the area! Learn about community resources that can be helpful for families and therapists, like the disability application process and related waivers, local inclusive recreation programs, parent support groups, therapy resources and handouts to provide, and more.
- Finally model occupational balance and take to learn something unrelated to occupational therapy and clinical skills. Burn-out is real and can happen at any point in your career. Take time for self-care and be intentional with your wellbeing & overall wellness – physical & mental.
Until next time,
Dr. Diamond