Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist (OT)Nexus Children's Hospital – Shenandoah is seeking a passionate and skilled Occupational Therapist (OT) to join our interdisciplinary team serving pediatric and adolescent patients with complex medical, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental needs. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a highly specialized inpatient setting focused on rehabilitation, behavioral health, and neurorecovery.Located in North Houston, Nexus Children's Hospital – Shenandoah is a 50-bed inpatient hospital specializing in the treatment of patients with complex medical and behavioral diagnoses, including neurobehavioral disorders, brain and spinal cord injuries, chronic illnesses, and co-occurring psychiatric conditions. Our collaborative care model brings together medical, rehabilitation, nursing, and behavioral health professionals to provide innovative, patient-centered care.Position SummaryThe Occupational Therapist (OT) provides specialized, evidence-based therapeutic services to pediatric and adult patients with neurodevelopmental disorders and complex behavioral and medical conditions. This role requires advanced clinical reasoning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a commitment to compassionate, person-centered care.The OT will perform comprehensive evaluations, develop individualized treatment plans, implement evidence-based interventions, and support patients in achieving greater independence, regulation, and participation in daily life activities.Key ResponsibilitiesClinical Care & TreatmentConduct comprehensive occupational therapy evaluations using standardized assessments tailored to neurodevelopmental and behavioral health populations.Develop and implement individualized treatment plans based on evaluation findings and patient goals.Deliver occupational therapy services across care settings for patients with complex medical, neurological, and behavioral diagnoses.Utilize evidence-based therapeutic interventions including sensory integration therapy, behavioral strategies, cognitive-behavioral approaches, trauma-informed care, and adaptive techniques.Assess and treat sensory processing, motor, cognitive, adaptive, and functional impairments.Monitor patient progress, reassess goals, and modify treatment plans as needed.Incorporate assistive technology, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications to maximize patient independence and participation.Maintain proficiency in crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques to support patient safety and therapeutic rapport.Interdisciplinary CollaborationCollaborate with physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, nursing staff, behavior analysts, developmental specialists, and rehabilitation teams to ensure coordinated patient care.Participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning meetings and contribute to individualized care plans.Provide caregiver education and staff training regarding therapeutic strategies, sensory regulation, and behavioral supports.Patient Advocacy & ExperienceFoster a therapeutic environment that prioritizes dignity, autonomy, inclusivity, and family engagement.Educate patients and caregivers on treatment goals, home exercise programs, and adaptive strategies.Advocate for patient access to services, accommodations, and community resources.Quality & ComplianceMaintain accurate, timely, and compliant clinical documentation.Adhere to AOTA standards, hospital policies, payer requirements, and state licensure regulations.Participate in quality improvement initiatives, peer reviews, audits, and outcome measurement programs.Provide supervision and support to Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs).Professional DevelopmentMaintain competency through continuing education, workshops, certifications, and professional development activities.Contribute to clinical education programs and mentor students or new team members.Support innovation initiatives designed to improve therapeutic outcomes for neurodiverse populations.QualificationsEducationBachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program requiredMaster's or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy preferredExperienceMinimum of two (2) years of clinical experience requiredExperience in pediatric, neurologic, or inpatient rehabilitation settings preferredExperience working with neurodevelopmental disorders and behavioral health populations preferredSkills & CompetenciesAdvanced clinical reasoning and therapeutic use of selfStrong understanding of sensory processing, trauma-informed care, behavioral interventions, and assistive technologyExcellent communication, documentation, organizational, and collaboration skillsAbility to manage behavioral crises using de-escalation techniquesProficiency with electronic health records and digital documentation systemsCommitment to culturally responsive and inclusive care practicesLicensure & CertificationsCurrent Texas Occupational Therapist (OT) license requiredBoard registration in Occupational Therapy requiredCurrent BLS certification through the American Heart Association or American Red Cross requiredDe-escalation training required within 30 days of hireAll certifications and licensure must remain active and in good standing throughout employmentWhy Join Nexus?Specialized and mission-driven inpatient settingCollaborative interdisciplinary care environmentOpportunities for growth, innovation, and continuing educationMeaningful work with medically and behaviorally complex populationsSupportive leadership and team cultureCompetitive compensation and benefits packageJoin a team dedicated to helping patients and families achieve meaningful progress, improved independence, and a higher quality of life.