Overview
Provides discipline-specific treatment for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), including evaluation, planning, documentation, and professional communication. Develops and monitors individualized goals and plans as identified in the Individualized Treatment Plan (ITP) in conjunction with other programs, as needed.
Essential Functions
- Evaluates and treats children referred for occupational therapy services using established evaluation procedures and standardized assessments, particularly in perceptual/sensory motor, fine motor and activities of daily living.
- Using independent discretion and judgement, develops individualized occupational therapy treatment plans and goals.
- Partners with an interdisciplinary team to provide discipline-specific consultation to other direct-care staff.
- Develops and provides coaching for family members and/or child to incorporate new skills and/or techniques into normal routines and activities at home.
- Works with caregivers to implement a home program that achieves occupational therapy goals.
- Assists in the coordination of services and makes appropriate referrals as needed.
- Completes necessary documentation including evaluations, treatment notes, progress reports and exit summaries; maintains updated medical reports and site-related documents for each child.
- Remains current regarding new research, trends, and developments in autism, special education and related fields.
- Attends and assists with staff meetings, in-services and other meetings as requested, regarding occupational therapy across program service divisions.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Education and Licensure
- Master’s degree in occupational therapy from an accredited program.
- Current California Board of Occupational Therapy license issued by the state of California.
- Current registration with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
- Must have and maintain current CPR certification card.
Experience
- 1 year of consulting experience working with infant/young children with developmental delays including autism is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Knowledgeable in occupational therapy, transdisciplinary early-intervention theories, and rehabilitation principles and practices.
- Knowledgeable of evidence-based practices beneficial for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
- Familiar with the field of early intervention.
- Ability to maintain positive customer service orientation and professionalism in all interactions; good judgment and decision-making skills.
- Effective oral and written communication; ability to work cooperatively with a variety of individuals and groups.
- Relates well to children and their families, maintaining positive affect and confidentiality in sensitive situations and documentation.
- Ability to interpret and implement policies, procedures, and regulations.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.) and related software.
- Ability to obtain and maintain criminal record/fingerprint clearance as required.
Physical/Career Requirements
- Carrying/Lifting: Constant; 0-40 lbs.
- Standing: Constant; Up to 8 hours per day.
- Sitting: Occasional; Up to 3 hours per day.
- Walking: Occasional; Up to 3 hours per day.
- Repetitive Motion/Activity: Keyboard activity, telephone use, writing.
- Visual Acuity: Ability to view computer monitor and read print.
- Travel: Up to 0% of time.
- Environmental Exposure: None.