The Occupational Therapist evaluates and summarizes an individual’s condition and history into a formal Occupational Therapy Assessment. He/she develops treatment plans for each individual. Trains direct care staff on specific OT techniques around individual goals and group activities. Encourages independence in activities of daily living for the individuals we serve and introduces and trains on the use of assistive devices. Advocates for the special needs for each individual we serve. Follows regulations established by the MassHealth.

The essential job duties/responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to the information listed
below:
• Provides skilled Occupational Therapy assessments on all individuals at least every 2 years or more often when there is a significant change in a member’s status.
• Creates occupational therapy programs, goals, Provider Support Agreements for individuals around activities of daily living, sensory needs, cognitive processing, range of motion, fine motor control, and other relevant skill areas based on members identified areas of need.
• Directs and aids individuals and staff in following through with aforementioned programming.
• Reviews and provides input on referral information for potential new members.
• Where applicable, supports & monitors Supportive & Protective Devices, completion of required paperwork surrounding these, and documentation of safety checks. Includes authorization of devices.
• Works as part of the interdisciplinary team to create a program that works for all facets of the individual.
• Participates in the completion of the severity profile & other assessments as required by MassHealth.
• Conducts staff training so that treatment plans can be implemented consistently across all direct care staff.
• Advocates for an individuals’ needs via family, guardians, local residence, primary care physicians, etc.
• Adapts OT techniques to meet the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Provides in-service training for direct care staff in the use of adaptive equipment, PSS, data collection, and new techniques.
• Attends Day Hab Support Planning & Risk Meetings, when necessary.
• Assists in monitoring the progress of individuals served by participating in 6-month interdisciplinary team reviews or more frequently if the Day Hab member requires it.
• Performs other related duties, as assigned.

Knowledge and Skills:
• Knowledge of human services
• Knowledge of documentation requirements: DHSP, Interim DSHP, OT assessment, written goals, Provider Support Strategies, and letters of medical necessity
• Knowledge and use of different communication, augmentation methods used, and learning styles
• Knowledge of computer applications and equipment
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Ability to make independent judgments and decisions
• Ability to safely lift and physically manipulate individuals
• Knowledge of relevant policies and procedures
• Knowledge of Occupational Therapy Professional and Vinfen’s Code of Ethics
• Ability to work in a professional and confidential capacity
• Sensitivity to cultural, religious, racial, disability, and gender issues
• Knowledge and use of advocacy techniques
• Participatory skills, collaborative skills
• Knowledge of human, legal, civil rights, community, and other resources
• Knowledge of available equipment, therapies, and service providers
• Knowledge of empowerment and self-advocacy techniques
• Knowledge of required independent living skills
• Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques
• Ability to develop and conduct training programs
• Organizational and communication skills

Established in 1977, Vinfen is a nonprofit, health and human services organization and a leading provider of community-based services to individuals with mental health conditions, intellectual and developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and behavioral health challenges. Our services and advocacy promote the recovery, resiliency, habilitation, and self-determination of the people we serve. Vinfen's 3,500 dedicated employees are experienced, highly-trained professionals who provide a full range of supportive living, health, educational, and clinical services in over 550 sites throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut. For more information about Vinfen, please visit www.vinfen.org/careers.

My Job. My Community. My Vinfen.

Vinfen is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Typical Requirements:
Must have one year of work of relevant work experience.

Preferred /Required Education:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required; Graduate from board approved, accredited educational program leading to Professional qualifications. 

Driving Requirements:
May be called on to drive for Vinfen using either a Vinfen van or personal vehicle. A valid driver’s license must be presented at the time of employment. Incumbents must be at least 21 years of age, have maintained a valid US driver’s license for at least six months, and must be able to pass a driver’s screening background check. If driving, must maintain a safe driving record, which is subject to annual checks. If using a personal vehicle, must possess and maintain adequate insurance.

Physical Effort:
Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, climb as this is a very physically active position.
Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds using proper lifting techniques or the use of a two-person lift.
Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment such as a calculator, copier, and printer.
Ability to sit, reach, climb stairs, and maneuver through narrow spaces or hallways.

Ability to assist clients with tasks of daily living.

Ability to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time as needed.
Ability to bend, reach, file, sit, stand, and move around the facility.

Ability to speak, hear, and communicate with clients, staff, and external representatives.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. 

Required Certifications:
N/R
Required Credentials/Licenses:
Must be currently licensed by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Allied health Professions