Mental health isn’t just a practice setting; it’s part of everyday occupational therapy

Natalie Centers, MOT, OTR/L, OOTA Mental Health SIS Coordinator

 

At the same time, many occupational therapy practitioners share that they don’t always feel confident in their mental health skills, or in explaining what OT is uniquely positioned to do. In response, the OOTA MH SIS is excited to offer a continuing education opportunity this summer focused on occupational therapy’s unique role in behavioral health, mental health, and psychiatric practice. On July 28 at 6:30 PM, participants will gather virtually to explore grief from a mental health perspective, “and the implications for occupational therapy practitioners and their clients who are receiving OT services while also grieving.”

No matter your treatment setting, this session will provide practical insights to help you better define, articulate, and advocate for OT’s unique expertise.

In addition to the July 28 CE, all occupational therapy practitioners are encouraged to join MH SIS quarterly meetings—anyone interested in exploring the connection between occupational therapy and mental health is welcome. These meetings provide a space to connect with colleagues, share perspectives, and engage in ongoing conversations about the future of occupational therapy in behavioral health.

While we haven’t nailed down the date for our August quarterly meeting, you can be sure not to miss any updates or invitations by completing the OOTA SIS Sign Up and indicating your interest in the MH SIS!

At the MH SIS’s most recent meeting in May, we had an important discussion about the changing behavioral health landscape, the importance of clearly communicating OT’s unique value on interdisciplinary teams, and ongoing efforts to strengthen the profession&’s role in mental health service delivery throughout Ohio. Please consider joining us in the future—your voice matters in these conversations.

Ultimately, OOTA’s Mental Health SIS hopes to connect OT practitioners with one another to share effective practices, develop OOTA programming, help identify what makes OT distinct, and advance mental health OT in Ohio.

Thank you for considering your participation, and we hope to see you soon!