Covenant Health Alberta Is Currently Hiring Multiple Candidates For Therapy Assistant – Killam, AB

Description:

The Therapy Assistant is responsible for assisting in the delivery of therapeutic rehabilitation programs. The Therapy Assistant participates in assessment related activities as well as the planning and development of client programs which includes leading individual or group treatment and educational interventions. This position is covered by the terms and conditions of the HSAA Paramedical Professional/Technical Collective Agreement.

Classification:

Therapy Assistant
Union: COV HSAA PROF TECH
Unit and Program: Recreation Therapy
Primary Location: Killam Health Centre
Location Details: As Per Location
Multi-Site: Not Applicable
FTE: 0.72
Posting End Date: 21-JUL-2023
Temporary Employee Class: Temp P/T Benefits
Date Available: 29-AUG-2023
Temporary End Date: 23-OCT-2024
Hours per Shift: 7
Length of Shift in weeks: 2
Shifts per cycle: 8
Shift Pattern: Days
Days Off: As Per Rotation
Minimum Salary: $25.11
Maximum Salary: $31.48
Vehicle Requirement: Not Applicable
Required Qualifications:  A directly related diploma from a recognized post-secondary institution is required.

Additional Required Qualifications: As required.

Preferred Qualifications: As required.

What skills and qualities are important for a Therapy Assistant ?

A Therapy Assistant requires a combination of skills and qualities to effectively support therapists and provide valuable assistance to patients. Here are some important skills and qualities for a Therapy Assistant:

1. Empathy and Compassion: A Therapy Assistant should possess a high degree of empathy and compassion to connect with patients and understand their emotional and physical challenges. They should be able to provide emotional support and create a safe and nurturing environment.
2. Active Listening: Active listening is crucial for a Therapy Assistant to understand patients’ concerns, needs, and progress. They should be attentive, responsive, and able to communicate effectively with both patients and therapists.
3. Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential to interact with patients, families, and therapists. The ability to explain exercises, treatment plans, and progress updates clearly is important for facilitating effective therapy sessions.
4. Organizational Skills: Therapy Assistants often handle administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining records, and managing equipment and supplies. Being organized and detail-oriented helps in efficiently managing these responsibilities.
5. Flexibility and Adaptability: Therapy settings can vary, and patient needs may change from session to session. A Therapy Assistant should be adaptable and flexible, capable of adjusting to different environments, patient conditions, and therapy approaches.
6. Physical Stamina: Many therapy interventions involve physical activities and exercises, which may require the Therapy Assistant to assist with movements, transfers, and positioning. Having the physical stamina and strength to support patients is important.
7. Teamwork and Collaboration: Therapy Assistants work closely with therapists, other healthcare professionals, and caregivers. They should be able to collaborate effectively as part of a team, follow instructions, and contribute to the overall patient care plan.
8. Patience and Resilience: Progress in therapy can sometimes be slow, and patients may face setbacks. A Therapy Assistant needs to be patient and resilient, supporting patients through their challenges and encouraging them to persist.
9. Knowledge of Therapy Techniques: While Therapy Assistants may not be responsible for independently developing treatment plans, having a basic understanding of therapy techniques and interventions can be helpful in assisting therapists effectively.
10. Respect for Confidentiality: Therapy sessions often involve sensitive and private information. Respecting patient confidentiality and maintaining strict ethical standards are crucial for a Therapy Assistant.

These skills and qualities, combined with appropriate education and training in therapy assistance, can help individuals thrive in this role and provide valuable support to therapists and patients alike.

What education and certification are required to become a Therapy Assistant ?

The education and certification requirements for becoming a Therapy Assistant can vary depending on the country and specific therapy field. Here is a general overview of the common educational pathways and certifications:

1. Education: Most Therapy Assistant positions require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. However, many employers prefer candidates who have completed post-secondary education in a related field. This can include diploma or associate degree programs in areas such as physical therapy assisting, occupational therapy assisting, or rehabilitation therapy.
2. Accredited Programs: It is advisable to pursue education from accredited programs recognized by professional bodies or regulatory agencies in your country. These programs ensure that you receive the necessary training and meet the required standards.
3. Clinical Experience: Many therapy assistant programs include a clinical component or require students to complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours. This hands-on experience allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, under the guidance of experienced professionals.
4. Licensure or Certification: In some countries, Therapy Assistants may need to obtain licensure or certification to practice legally. The requirements for licensure or certification vary depending on the therapy field and jurisdiction. For example:

• Physical Therapy Assistant: In the United States, physical therapy assistants must graduate from an accredited physical therapy assistant program and pass the National Physical Therapy Exam to become licensed.
• Occupational Therapy Assistant: Occupational therapy assistants in the United States typically need to complete an accredited occupational therapy assistant program and pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam to become certified.
• Speech-Language Pathology Assistant: Some states in the United States require speech-language pathology assistants to hold a specific certification or license. Requirements vary by state, so it’s important to check the regulations in your specific location.
• Continuing Education: Once you become a Therapy Assistant, it’s essential to engage in continuing education to stay updated on the latest developments in the field and maintain your certification or licensure. This can include attending workshops, seminars, and conferences, as well as completing specific continuing education units (CEUs) or credits.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements can vary significantly by country and even within different regions or states. Therefore, it’s crucial to research the guidelines and regulations established by the professional bodies and regulatory agencies in your specific location to ensure compliance with the necessary educational and certification requirements.

Who can apply to this job?

The employer accepts applications from:

• Canadian citizens and permanent or temporary residents of Canada.
• Other candidates with or without a valid Canadian work permit.

How to apply
Online: Apply On Company WebSite

What is the work environment like for Therapy Assistant ?

The work environment for Therapy Assistants can vary depending on the setting in which they are employed. Here are some common work environments for Therapy Assistants:

1. Hospitals: Many Therapy Assistants work in hospitals, assisting therapists in departments such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy. They may work with patients recovering from surgeries, accidents, or illnesses.
2. Rehabilitation Centers: Rehabilitation centers, including both inpatient and outpatient facilities, employ Therapy Assistants to provide support during the recovery process. These centers focus on helping individuals regain their independence and functional abilities.
3. Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities: Therapy Assistants may work in nursing homes or long-term care facilities, where they assist therapists in providing rehabilitative care to elderly individuals or those with chronic conditions.
4. Schools and Educational Institutions: Therapy Assistants can work in schools and educational institutions, supporting therapists in providing therapy services to students with special needs or disabilities. They may work alongside school therapists or provide one-on-one assistance.
5. Private Practices: Some Therapy Assistants work in private practices alongside therapists, providing support in various therapy settings. These practices may specialize in areas such as orthopedics, pediatrics, or sports rehabilitation.
6. Home Health Agencies: Therapy Assistants may work for home health agencies, providing therapy services to individuals in their own homes. This allows patients to receive care in a familiar environment and can involve assisting with activities of daily living and mobility.
7. Sports and Fitness Facilities: In sports and fitness settings, Therapy Assistants may work with athletes or individuals seeking rehabilitation from sports-related injuries. They may assist with exercises, stretching, and injury prevention programs.
8. Community-Based Programs: Therapy Assistants can also be involved in community-based programs that aim to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities or special needs. These programs can include recreational therapy, adaptive sports programs, or social integration initiatives.

The work environment for Therapy Assistants is typically collaborative, involving close interaction with therapists, other healthcare professionals, and patients. It can be physically demanding, as Therapy Assistants may need to assist with transfers, positioning, and physical activities. They may work full-time or part-time hours, and their schedules can vary depending on the facility and patient needs.

Overall, the work environment for Therapy Assistants focuses on supporting patients’ therapeutic journeys and helping them achieve their goals for improved functionality, mobility, and quality of life.