In any community, people of all ages are born, or have become, unable to actively participate in meaningful activities. That’s why we are fortunate to have people like Savannah Robinson, an Occupational Therapist (OT) at Glory Therapy.
Savannah was drawn to the Occupational Therapy profession “…after learning how Occupational Therapy looks at people holistically.” She said, “OT looks at all the meaningful things people do in their lives. Whether it’s picking up their children, taking care of their dog, or participating in tennis; through remediation or compensatory strategies, OT helps challenged people of all ages return to their desired occupational roles.”
She was excited to learn she could use her skills and talents to help people in these ways. She said this is where she “wants to be because that’s the heart of people; to be themselves; to be and do what they want and need to do. That’s why I wanted to become an Occupational Therapist.”
With kids, their occupation is usually play. So, developing fine motor skills, visual skills, as well as self-care, dressing, and eating are usually accomplished through play.”
Usually with kids, she said, “sessions consist of providing some sensory input and playing games. With adults it’s kind of the same but usually more meaningful.” She continued, “Usually their goal is the occupation which is the focus of the session and what they work for.”
Because Glory Therapy is an outpatient clinic she sees a variety of clients. “…not just neuro or pediatrics”. She sees orthopedic and neurological patients, kids with developmental delays, and Cerebral Palsy (CP).
According to Savannah, Being an “active listener” is one important character trait required to work in this field. She noted, “Not talking over people and telling them what their goals should be; listening and contributing to the conversation, but letting them be heard...” is very important.
She added, “It’s very important for them to know their feelings and experiences are validated.” “I may want them to get dressed but that’s really not what’s very meaningful to them. You’ll have to express importance in certain things, but work on things they think are meaningful.
If I try to solve a problem and tell somebody with a different personality what they should be working on, it might throw off the whole treatment session. So having that emotional awareness; having good communication skills is very important.”
“Being observant and open minded” are two other important character traits, Savannah said. “People are different. I have to meet them where they are. Their Ideas and my ideas may be different. Their ideas and mine may not necessarily align but we are both working on the same goal. So I respect others and don’t push what I want on them.
“True kindness and empathy” are yet two more important traits we strive to possess, Savannah remarked.
Staff
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