Occupational Therapist - Early Psychosis Intervention (EPI)

Job Description

In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of the Vancouver Island Health Authority (Island Health) patient and staff safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone; as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Practices in accordance with the standards of professional practice and code of ethics as outlined by the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC as well as within a client and family centred care model and Island Health vision and values. Employs principles of a strengths-based, recovery philosophy to provide occupational therapy services to assist clients with their psychosocial rehabilitation and maintain optimal health outcomes. Assesses and screens clients for psychosis and other conditions which may include outreach visits; makes decisions on the disposition of referrals including those requiring additional assessment, psychiatric consultant, linkage to a treatment provider and/or referral to an alternative service. Liaises with family physicians, and community agencies to promote early identification and treatment of psychosis. Provides psycho-education, consultation, supportive counselling and family education; provides information to clients and families regarding access to community resources in order to facilitate an effective continuum of services and participates in ongoing development of group therapy component of the program by facilitating adolescent, adult and family groups.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education, Training And Experience

Graduation from a recognized university program in Occupational Therapy. Current licensure in a practicing category with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC as an Occupational Therapist. Eligible for membership in the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT). One (1) year experience in a psychiatric setting working with adolescents and young adults, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Skills And Abilities

• Knowledge of developmental issues and theories related to mental illness, in particular psychosis, for client population.
• Broad knowledge of Occupational Therapy theory and practice.
• Broad knowledge of the COTBC standards of practice and guidelines for clinical practitioners.
• Broad knowledge of other health care disciplines and their role in client care.
• Basic knowledge of evidence-based clinical practice related to designated clinical area(s)
• Basic knowledge of occupational therapy standardised tests and measures.
• Basic knowledge of research process and methodology.
• Demonstrated ability to teach and empower clients to assume control over their health.
• Demonstrated ability to adjust to unexpected events, problem-solve, set priorities and deal with conflict.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively as a member of an interdisciplinary team.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate (orally and in writing) and deal effectively with clients and their families, coworkers, physicians, other health care staff, and staff of external agencies.
• Demonstrated ability to establish workload priorities in collaboration with others in a complex health care environment.
• Demonstrated ability to recognize when referral to another health care professional is required.
• Demonstrated computer skills including the ability to effectively use a computerized client care information system.
• Demonstrated physical ability to perform the duties of the position.

Link to Full Job Description

https://jd.viha.ca/JD3585.pdf