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 eachperson's clinical and academic needs
Provides direct occupational therapy services to individuals and / or delegates andsupervises treatment administered by Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants
(COTAs)
Leads both individual and group therapy sessions using evidence-based, therapeutictechniques
Maintains appropriate, timely documentation in compliance with agency standardsParticipates in team meetings, including IEPs, Individual Program (IP) meetings, clinicalcase reviews, and discharge planning
Collaborates with interdisciplinary team members (clinicians, educators, familymembers, and other providers) to support consistent, effective intervention
Provides supervision and mentorship to COTAs and / or occupational therapy students, asassigned
Ensures therapy services are delivered in a safe, therapeutic, and goal-directed mannerMaintain active certification in agency-approved crisis intervention training, including allrequired 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 TherapySKILLS :
Strong communication and collaboration skillsProficiency in documentation, evaluation, and treatment planningAbility to develop therapeutic rapport with individuals with complex needsStrong organizational and time management skillsSkilled in using sensory integration and adaptive equipment to support therapeutic goalsCapability to provide effective supervision and feedback to students or assistantsKNOWLEDGE :
In-depth understanding of sensory processing disorders and developmental disabilitiesFamiliarity with trauma-informed care practicesWorking knowledge of therapeutic modalities appropriate for individuals with ASD andIDD
Knowledge of state and federal education and healthcare regulations related to therapyservices
Understanding of the integration of OT in a multidisciplinary treatment modelFamiliarity with IEP development and participation in special education processesABILITIES :
Assess and respond to the sensory, motor, and functional needs of individuals in varioussettings
Maintain professional demeanor in crisis situationsTravel independently to residential, school, and community settings as neededEstablish and maintain positive working relationships with families, staff, and externalstakeholders
Adapt therapeutic approaches to meet individualized needsMaintain confidentiality and ethical standards in line with professional licensing bodiesEDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND OTHER QUALIFICATIONS :
State of Connecticut Department of Public Health Occupational TherapistCredential Required.
Licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR) in the State of Connecticut (or eligible)National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certificationrequired
Experience working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and / or Intellectualand Developmental Disabilities preferred
Sensory integration experience strongly preferredMust be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver's license and clean driving recordValid driver's license with a clean record; ability to transport individuals safelyAbility to obtain and maintain required certifications (PMT, First Aid, CPR; trainingprovided)
Experience working independently and as part of an interdisciplinary teamAbility to work flexible hours based on individual and program needsWORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS :
Work is performed across school and group home settingsMay 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 requiredExposure to behavioral challenges and crisis situations requiring PMT interventionsTravel between locations requiredEqual Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.