Occupational Therapist

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Occupational Therapist to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in patient care and possess the skills necessary to support individuals in achieving their highest level of independence. This role involves working with diverse populations, including pediatrics and individuals with autism, ADHD, anxiety, genetic disorders, etc., to enhance their daily living skills and overall well-being.

Sundance Circle Hippotherapy was established in 2017, we focus on treatment delivery to both adult and pediatric populations via hippotherapy. We have a small team of staff, a herd of eight horses and a well organized team of volunteers.

Although we have an existing patient list, this role has the flexibility for a therapist to proactively build their client list with the support of the Clinical Director, within the capacity of the facility.

The therapist must be passionate about treating patients using non-traditional methods whilst adhering to excellent standards of practice and regulatory requirements. Understanding of the theory of hippotherapy is essential. Knowledge of and experience with horses is advantageous but not essential.

The therapist is responsible for the evaluation and treatment of patients referred to the hippotherapy facility. This includes patient evaluation, development and implementation of an appropriate treatment plan, delivery of treatment services, and comprehensive discharge planning. The therapist functions as an effective team member and contributes to the development and achievement of organizational goals and objectives.

Core Responsibilities:

• Management of patient caseload
• Evaluate, set time-limited attainable goals, and create a treatment plan for each new patient.
• Implement treatment plan and provide regular re-assessments for the purpose of treatment modification, to maximize patients’ potential for functional independence, all in accordance with acceptable practice guidelines and facility policies and procedures.
• Document daily treatment notes, log attendance status.
• Communicate patient status (e.g., evaluation results, treatment plan, and goals) by providing timely written or verbal communication to physicians and therapy customers (e.g., patients, guardians).
• Consistently establish and maintain effective working relations with patients and family members, facility staff and volunteers.
• Oversee therapy assistants and students.
• Self-monitor workflow to ensure productivity, standards of practice, and regulatory requirements are consistently met.
• Actively participate in program development, performance improvement activities, and community events sponsored by the organization.
• Respond to feedback/concerns in a professional manner that demonstrates effective listening and problem solving skills.

Required Experience:

• Degree from an accredited school.
• All necessary National and State of Washington certifications and licenses.
• Completed American Hippotherapy Association Treatment Principles Part One.

Able to Demonstrate:

• Competency in the provisions of therapist’s discipline's services in accordance with specific standards of practice.
• A thorough understanding of the principles and practice of hippotherapy/equine assisted therapy.
• Ability to serve as an advocate for hippotherapy/equine assisted therapy.
• Foster teamwork with professional behavior at all times.
• US citizen or valid resident/ work permit.

Physical Requirements:

• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Assist patients weighing up to 190 lbs. with mounts and dismounts.
• Walk 5-8 miles per day over uneven surfaces.
• Work with arms at shoulder level for up to 30 min 6x/day.
• Must be physically fit with quick reflexes and high level of alertness at all times during treatments involving horses.
• Perform office work as required.