Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist

Shall be a registered physical or occupational therapist who is a graduate of a four year college program accredited by the American Medical Association and the American Physical Therapy Association or the American Occupational Therapy Association, respectively. Must also hold a license as therapist issued by the Connecticut State Department of Health. The applicant should demonstrate specific training, coursework and experience indicating knowledge of special needs and appropriate evaluation and treatment techniques to be utilized in his/her work with special needs students in schools.

The Physical or Occupational Therapist shall evaluate children with a wide variety of confirmed or suspected physical/neurological/developmental deficits such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, myelomenengocele, intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, orthopedic impairments, etc, who have been recommended by a PPT for such service. Treatment will be given after a comprehensive evaluation and only will be given with physician approval.

Examples of duties:

• Early identification, screening, and evaluation of students with possible physical impairments or disabilities; direct, intensive therapy with multi-handicapped students; consultation with educational staff, parents and/or community agencies.
• Therapists will consult with school personnel in planning and evaluation of treatment programs.
• Therapists will contribute directly to the Planning and Placement Team (PPT) and the resulting individualized education program for each student being served.
• Therapists will demonstrate interest in professional growth by attending workshops/conferences on topics that relate to their caseloads.

Works under the supervision of the Director of Student Services and the principals of the buildings to which he/she is assigned.