Occupational Therapist

Nexus Health Systems Ltd•Shenandoah, TX

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Nexus Children’s Hospital – Shenandoah is seeking a passionate and skilled Occupational Therapist (OT) to join their interdisciplinary team serving pediatric and adolescent patients with complex medical, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental needs. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a highly specialized inpatient setting focused on rehabilitation, behavioral health, and neurorecovery. Nexus Children’s Hospital – Shenandoah is a 50-bed inpatient hospital specializing in the treatment of patients with complex medical and behavioral diagnoses, including neurobehavioral disorders, brain and spinal cord injuries, chronic illnesses, and co-occurring psychiatric conditions. Their collaborative care model brings together medical, rehabilitation, nursing, and behavioral health professionals to provide innovative, patient-centered care. The Occupational Therapist (OT) provides specialized, evidence-based therapeutic services to pediatric and adult patients with neurodevelopmental disorders and complex behavioral and medical conditions. This role requires advanced clinical reasoning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a commitment to compassionate, person-centered care. The OT will perform comprehensive evaluations, develop individualized treatment plans, implement evidence-based interventions, and support patients in achieving greater independence, regulation, and participation in daily life activities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program required
Minimum of two (2) years of clinical experience required
Current Texas Occupational Therapist (OT) license required
Board registration in Occupational Therapy required
Current BLS certification through the American Heart Association or American Red Cross required
De-escalation training required within 30 days of hire
All certifications and licensure must remain active and in good standing throughout employment
Advanced clinical reasoning and therapeutic use of self
Strong understanding of sensory processing, trauma-informed care, behavioral interventions, and assistive technology
Excellent communication, documentation, organizational, and collaboration skills
Ability to manage behavioral crises using de-escalation techniques
Proficiency with electronic health records and digital documentation systems
Commitment to culturally responsive and inclusive care practices

Nice To Haves

Master's or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy preferred
Experience in pediatric, neurologic, or inpatient rehabilitation settings preferred
Experience working with neurodevelopmental disorders and behavioral health populations preferred

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive occupational therapy evaluations using standardized assessments tailored to neurodevelopmental and behavioral health populations.
Develop and implement individualized treatment plans based on evaluation findings and patient goals.
Deliver occupational therapy services across care settings for patients with complex medical, neurological, and behavioral diagnoses.
Utilize evidence-based therapeutic interventions including sensory integration therapy, behavioral strategies, cognitive-behavioral approaches, trauma-informed care, and adaptive techniques.
Assess and treat sensory processing, motor, cognitive, adaptive, and functional impairments.
Monitor patient progress, reassess goals, and modify treatment plans as needed.
Incorporate assistive technology, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications to maximize patient independence and participation.
Maintain proficiency in crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques to support patient safety and therapeutic rapport.
Collaborate with physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, nursing staff, behavior analysts, developmental specialists, and rehabilitation teams to ensure coordinated patient care.
Participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning meetings and contribute to individualized care plans.
Provide caregiver education and staff training regarding therapeutic strategies, sensory regulation, and behavioral supports.
Foster a therapeutic environment that prioritizes dignity, autonomy, inclusivity, and family engagement.
Educate patients and caregivers on treatment goals, home exercise programs, and adaptive strategies.
Advocate for patient access to services, accommodations, and community resources.
Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant clinical documentation.
Adhere to AOTA standards, hospital policies, payer requirements, and state licensure regulations.
Participate in quality improvement initiatives, peer reviews, audits, and outcome measurement programs.
Provide supervision and support to Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs).
Maintain competency through continuing education, workshops, certifications, and professional development activities.
Contribute to clinical education programs and mentor students or new team members.
Support innovation initiatives designed to improve therapeutic outcomes for neurodiverse populations.