Occupational Therapist- Senior’s Mental Health- Part Time

Purpose:

Seniors Mental Health Services provides community mental health services for older adults within the District of Algoma. The team members within this service address mental health issues that may be affecting independence, activities of daily living, safety and relationships. The goal of this service is to provide specialized mental health assessment and recommendations. Team members also have the ability to connect patients with a geriatric psychiatrist for diagnosis when necessary.

 Duties:

1. Provides assessment, program planning, treatment, follow-up and program evaluation to clients in the community.
2. Provides appropriate education, consultation, recommendation and treatment plans in consultation with the client, family/caregivers, physicians and other health care professionals to promote optimal level of occupational performance.
3. Provides expertise in cognitive screening, home assessment, psychosocial interventions, and psychotherapeutic skills.
4. Facilitates liaison between the Mental Health and Addictions Program and community services.
5. Participates and collaborates with other health care providers and community partners in the provision of patient care.
6. Effectively uses Best Practice Guidelines and evidence based practice in assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating the care of the senior with mental illness.
7. Provides leadership in the development and implementation of care plans for individuals in the community and the Mental Health Program, through collaboration in team and family meetings and ongoing staff discussions.
8. Works closely with psychiatrists/delegates, emergency physicians, emergency nurses, Crisis Intervention, primary care providers, other interdisciplinary team members and long term care facilities to provide care to seniors with mental illness.
9. Provides assistance in planning corrective actions to ensure safety for patients and staff.
10. Is compliant with legislation, organizational and departmental, regulations, standards and procedures related to occupational health and safety.
11. Works within the scope of practice and standards laid out by the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario and relevant legislation, policies, and procedures.
12. Acts as a role model, mentor, and/or preceptor for learners, new grads, and new hires from various disciplines.
13. Supports various quality improvement initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Graduate of an accredited university program in occupational therapy that meets academic and clinical requirements for registration with COTO.
• Current registration with, or eligible for registration with, The College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario (COTO).
• Possession of a valid Ontario Drivers License and a reliable vehicle required as job involves visiting patients at various locations throughout the community.

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in assessing and treating adults/seniors with mental illness.

Skills & Ability:

• Knowledge of Mental Health conditions affecting the elderly.
• Working knowledge of the psychological, physical and functional implications of the aging process.
• Demonstrated ability to assess cognitive functioning and mental status in the elderly.
• Demonstrated adaptability and flexibility to respond to emerging and dynamic program needs.
• Extensive knowledge of community resources.
• Proven ability to liaise with referral sources, community agencies and other team members to enhance positive patient outcomes.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of an interdisciplinary team in a consultative role.
• Ability to utilize Microsoft Office and programs such as work, excel and outlook.
• Demonstrated behaviour consistent with the hospital’s mission statement and core values.

Note:  Because of the changing nature of the work and work to be done, other responsibilities and duties may be assigned and qualifications may be adjusted from time to time.  Only those selected for testing/interview will be contacted.