Occupational Therapist - STAR Center

Downtown Emergency Service Center•Seattle, WA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

DESC is looking for an experienced and enthusiastic occupational therapist to join our growing Division of Occupational Therapy! This unique and exciting opportunity is OT at its finest: collaborating with clients to maximize engagement and independence in meaningful routines and valued occupations. These may include ADLs/IADLs, leisure activities, household management, decreasing substance use, sustaining housing, and community integration. Our clientele consists of highly vulnerable adults facing significant untreated and undertreated challenges related to mental health and substance use disorders. This is primarily a behavioral health role, but basic knowledge of OT interventions for physical dysfunction is expected. Most services will be provided within the shelter, with additional outreach work conducted as needed to support an individual’s successful transition to permanent supportive housing. Therapy may be conducted individually or in groups. The ideal candidate is innovative, adaptable, and committed to serving the most vulnerable of our community. Preference given to candidates with behavioral health experience. This position will report to the Occupational Therapy Supervisor.

Requirements

Licensed by the state of Washington as an Occupational Therapist or has a valid probational certificate issued by the state of Washington to practice occupational therapy.
Graduation from an accredited Occupational Therapy program.
Ability to meet Washington Department of Health requirements for registration as a Registered Agency Affiliated Counselor (AAC) or any other superseding credential.
Interest or experience in working with clients who have difficulty engaging with traditional programs.
Excellent communication skills and professional work ethic.
Ability to work effectively with clients displaying a wide range of behaviors.
Subscribe to the philosophy of cooperation and continuity across programs and of consideration and respect for clients.
Ability to drive an agency or personal vehicle to conduct agency-related business, including a current Washington State driver's license and insurable driving record.
BLS/CPR Certification (can be obtained after hire).

Nice To Haves

Professional fluency in a second language besides English
Experience working with adults who have experienced homelessness
Experience working with adults who have experienced mental health and substance use issues

Responsibilities

Provide high-quality occupational therapy evaluations and treatment interventions (individual and groups) to clients with serious mental illness, history of incarceration, substance use disorder, and/or history of homelessness.
Services may be provided in the shelter or in permanent supportive housing sites
Complete written documentation in manner and timeline required by department and agency
Develop and maintain strong collaborative relationships with multidisciplinary teams, DESC Housing staff, and community partners to ensure full continuity of care for clients.
Participate in team meetings, in-services, and agency trainings as assigned
Support and participate in departmental operations and development
Comply with applicable program research and evaluation procedures
Other duties as assigned.