Professional
“Occupational therapists are committed to ethical practice and high personal standards of behaviour in enabling occupation” (CAOT, 2012)
My
SKILLS
As autonomous and self-regulated health professionals, occupational therapists are guided by ethical codes of practice. Professional behaviour not only encompasses the client-therapist interaction, it also frames how occupational therapists present in the health care community. Throughout my undergraduate and graduate degrees, professionalism is a quality that I embody in therapeutic practice, and in everyday interaction. From attending council meetings, to participating in class, using a professional demeanor is important to embrace appropriate attitudes and behaviours within specific contexts. Specifically, in my role as the Orientation Week Coordinator, I was responsible for implementing a smooth week-long program for new rehabilitation therapy students. This involved interacting with faculty members, local kingston businesses, and a committee of peers in a professional manner to ensure that the week was well organized, and that students were safe for the duration of the events.
Evidence
Employer
"Keira is an excellent communicator and highly organized, Her tact and professionalism were key to her successful collaboration with office staff and co-coordinators in creating and ensuring a successful program"
Placement 2 Preceptor B
"Keira's greatest strength during this placement was her ability to develop instant rapport with clients. She always demonstrated professionalism and compassion yet firmness when required. This is an especially important skill to possess when working with clients in their own homes"
FUTURE
directions
Practice occupational therapy ethically, and ensure awareness of the power dynamic involved in the therapeutic relationship with respect to the client’s values, needs, and goals
Contribute through professional organizations to the occupational therapy profession