Per Diem Occupational Therapist

Highhorses; Town of Vermont (WI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 91,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional growth and leadership opportunities

Supportive workplace culture

Experience in innovative therapeutic modalities

Job summary

Highhorses is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist to join our team in Vermont for per diem work. This role involves designing and implementing individualized treatment plans that integrate horses into occupational therapy. Candidates should have a Master’s or Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy, be licensed in Vermont, and have a strong interest in equine-assisted therapy. A competitive pay rate of $65/hour with potential for increases based on experience is offered. Join us to make a lasting impact in the community!

Qualifications

• Must have the ability to adapt therapy techniques to meet client needs.
• Prior experience in pediatric, neurological, sensory, or orthopedic rehabilitation preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments and evaluate client's abilities.
• Develop and implement therapy treatment plans incorporating horses.
• Guide clients through horse-related exercises and adaptive strategies.
• Document all treatment sessions and collaborate with the care team.

Skills

Experience in traditional occupational therapy

Interest in equine-assisted therapy

Communication skills

Client-centered care approach

Ability to work with special needs

Education

Master’s or Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy

Licensed Occupational Therapist in Vermont

CPR and First Aid certification

Job description

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Occupational Therapist to join our multidisciplinary team at our equine-assisted therapy facility. The ideal candidate will have experience in traditional occupational therapy, as well as an interest in exploring the unique benefits of integrating horses into therapy. This role involves designing, implementing, and monitoring individualized treatment plans for clients, using the therapeutic interactions with horses to enhance physical and cognitive function, social participation, and emotional healing. This position is Per-Diem in nature and schedule is determined by therapist availability and HHCEAS’ needs.

Why You’ll Love Working Here:

• Powerful and innovative therapeutic modality that creates lasting impact for individuals and families in our community
• A collaborative and supportive team dedicated to our mission
• The opportunity to work closely with horses in a unique therapeutic environment
• A chance to help shape and grow innovative programs that improve lives

Benefits & Highlights

• Competitive per diem Occupational Therapist pay
• Professional growth and leadership opportunities
• Supportive and inclusive workplace culture
• The rewarding experience of being part of life-changing equine-assisted programs

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough assessments of clients to evaluate their physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities related to daily tasks and functional independence.
• Develop and implement personalized occupational therapy treatment plans, incorporating equine-assisted activities to help clients build motor skills, coordination, balance, and social interaction.
• Work closely with the certified therapeutic riding instructors, equine specialists, therapists, and other team members to deliver holistic care to clients.
• Guide clients through horse-related exercises, including mounting, riding, leading, and interacting with horses, to improve sensory processing, motor skills, and emotional regulation.
• Teach clients adaptive strategies and tools to improve daily living activities, such as dressing, grooming, cooking, and school or work-related tasks.
• Provide education and training to clients and their families about therapeutic techniques and coping strategies to promote independence and well-being.
• Monitor client progress and adjust treatment plans as needed to ensure effective outcomes.
• Document all treatment sessions, progress reports, and assessments in accordance with facility guidelines and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with medical providers, caregivers, and support networks to ensure comprehensive care for each client.
• Maintain a safe and therapeutic environment, ensuring clients’ physical and emotional safety during therapy sessions.

Compensation:

Per Diem Therapists are compensated for completed treatment sessions. Each session is paid as one (1) hour and includes treatment time and required documentation. Conducting evaluations are compensated at the treatment session rate. Scheduling and cancellation management are overseen by the Director of Programs.

Base Treatment and Evaluation Rate: $65/hour

Hourly rate increases with years of experience and additional qualifying credentials up to $95/hour.

In addition to providing treatment sessions and conducting evaluations, therapists may be required to attend meetings, trainings, or have related administrative duties. These activities will be compensated at an administrative rate of pay: $35/hour.

Education/ or Experience:

• Licensed Occupational Therapist in Vermont.
• Master’s or Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
• Professional liability insurance.
• Prior experience in pediatric, neurological, sensory and/or orthopedic rehabilitation is preferred.
• Strong interest in equine-assisted therapy and a willingness to work in a therapeutic environment with horses.
• Ability to work with individuals of all ages and abilities, including those with special needs or behavioral challenges.
• Compassionate, patient, and creative approach to therapy, with an emphasis on client-centered care. Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with clients, families, and the multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to adapt therapy techniques to meet the unique needs of each client.
• CPR and First Aid certification.
• Previous experience working in a therapy setting using hippotherapy as a strategy is preferred but not required.
• PATH Registered Therapist and AHA Part 1 and 2 certification must be attained within the first year; professional development funds will be provided to assist with these requirements.

Our Commitment to Inclusion:

High Horses is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and organizational need.

Call to Action:

If you are inspired by the healing power of horses and are excited to expand your professional scope and work with clients in a dynamic and growing organization, we encourage you to apply and become part of the High Horses team!