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 In this captivating episode, Ryan Bunting, a certified occupational therapy assistant and Director of Aquatics, unveils his top tools for aquatic therapy. He emphasizes simplicity and creativity as key elements in occupational therapy sessions. From playground balls for bilateral coordination to visual timers for executive functioning, Ryan explores a wide range of versatile tools. He also highlights the benefits of pool noodles for correcting form, watermelon balls for water play, and flow-through mats for sensory input. Join Ryan as he shares his insights and demonstrates how these tools can enhance motor skills and promote independence in aquatic therapy sessions. 

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In this captivating episode, we explore the fascinating world of motivational drives in occupational therapy. Discover eight core human drives, and learn how leveraging human motivations can enhance therapeutic interventions, business strategies, coaching techniques, and marketing approaches. We delve into the dynamics of intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation, the impact of feedback on internal body awareness, and how gamification can revolutionize occupational therapy in unique settings.

Key Points:

1. Introduction:
   • Introduction to the episode on motivational drives in occupational therapy.
   • Overview of the Octalysis core drives and their significance in therapy.
2. Benefits of Using Human Motivations in Occupational Therapy:
   • Exploring the wide range of benefits derived from integrating motivational drives in therapy.
   • How leveraging human motivations can enhance therapeutic outcomes and increase client engagement.
3. Extending Motivational Approaches Beyond Therapy:
   • Discussion on how motivational principles can be applied in business, coaching, and marketing realms.
   • Understanding the broader applications of motivational drives beyond the scope of occupational therapy.
4. Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation:
   • Unpacking the differences between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.
   • How understanding these motivations can guide therapists in creating sustainable progress.
5. Feedback for Boosting Internal Body Awareness:
   • The importance of providing feedback to enhance clients' internal body awareness.
   • How constructive feedback can empower clients to better understand their capabilities and progress.
6. Gamification in Unique Settings:
   • The transformative role of gamification in occupational therapy.
   • How elements of play, competition, and reward systems can make therapy more enjoyable and effective.
7. Conclusion:
   • Summary of the key takeaways from the episode.
   • Emphasizing the immense potential of integrating motivational drives in occupational therapy.

Join us on this enlightening journey as we explore the power of motivational drives in occupational therapy. Discover how intrinsic motivation, feedback, and gamification can elevate therapy outcomes and empower individuals to reach their full potential. Don't miss this episode! Subscribe now and unlock the secrets to transforming lives through motivational drives in occupational therapy.

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In this episode, we delve into the importance of helping students grasp the essence of Occupational Therapy (OT) through field work and internship programs. Hear Ryan and Gina emphasize the reciprocal benefits that arise from integrating field work students and interns into your unique practice setting. Join us as we discuss the value of this two-way street, exploring how both parties can support and learn from each other.

Key Points:

1. The Significance of Getting to the Heart of OT:
   • The primary goal of field work and our internship programs is to help students understand the core principles and practices of Occupational Therapy.
   • By immersing themselves in real-world settings, students can gain invaluable hands-on experience and witness the impact of OT firsthand.
2. Integrating Field Work Students and Interns:
   • The podcast episode emphasizes the importance of considering how field work students or interns can be integrated into your practice setting.
   • You should assess where a student or intern might fit in and contribute effectively to the team.
3. The Mutual Benefits:
   • It is a two-way street: students/interns can offer assistance to the facility or program, while the facility/program can provide valuable learning opportunities and mentorship.
   • Students/interns can bring fresh perspectives, energy, and enthusiasm, contributing to the your practice and your clients' outcomes.
4. Supporting Field Work Students and Interns:
   • The podcast emphasizes the significance of providing support to field work students and interns during their placements.
   • Mentorship and guidance from experienced practitioners help students gain confidence and navigate the challenges they may encounter.

Conclusion: By understanding the importance of helping students uncover the essence of OT, and by considering how field work students and interns can be integrated into unique practice settings, both parties can reap the benefits this partnership. This episode sheds light on the value of this two-way street, encouraging listeners to reflect on their role in fostering the growth and development of future occupational therapists.

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 In this podcast, occupational therapist Gina Taylor and Suzanne Kapral from Hillside Farms discuss the benefits of incorporating farm animals and nature-based work into trauma-informed care practices. The program at Hillside Farms brings in a team of professionals, including occupational therapists, trauma counselors, and social workers, to work with children who have experienced traumatic events. The children work alongside staff members and caretakers, learning about where their food comes from and the value of respecting the earth and animals. The farm animals provide a natural connectedness that helps to break down communication barriers and allows children to learn proper and appropriate ways to communicate their feelings. By working with nature and the farm animals, children are able to heal and recover from trauma in a unique and effective way.  Incorporating animals into trauma-based care and grief counseling can be a powerful tool, but it's important to partner with organizations or individuals who have the necessary expertise to ensure the welfare of the animals. It's also crucial to not underestimate the amount of work and time required to care for animals, and to seek out available resources and local partners to support this type of therapy.  Here are some resources discussed in this episode for mental health professionals interested in incorporating traditional animals/farm animals in therapeutic settings:

Green Chimneys

https://www.greenchimneys.org/

Human Animal Bond Research Institute:

https://habri.org/

Colorado State University: Human Animal Bond

https://www.chhs.colostate.edu/habic/

International Association of Human Animal Interaction Organizations

https://iahaio.org/

ROOTS at Evergreen Grove

https://www.rootsatevergreengrove.org/

The Lands at Hillside Farms

https://www.thelandsathillsidefarms.org/

Suzanne is  happy to hop on a Zoom call for anyone interested in the farm animal area of therapy (or education).  She can help with initial setup as it relates to the business side (including insurance, vetting animals, animal welfare, etc.). Her email is: [email protected]

If you liked this episode, be sure to review our podcast so more people can find fellowship in therapy outside the box.

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Join us in this episode of the Animals and Aquatics podcast as we dive into the personal experiences and insights of a COTA during her transition from student to practitioner. Our guest shares her journey, highlighting the difficulties encountered when entering the field and adjusting to the practical aspects of the profession. From the struggles of adapting note-writing techniques to understanding the diverse needs of her students, she reveals the learning curve she faced and the strategies she employed to overcome these challenges.

The discussion delves into the unique dynamics of working with a wide range of individuals with varying cognitive abilities and behavioral issues and how incorporating animals into the sessions can help students with engagement and motivation. In this episode, we explore the powerful role of animals in occupational therapy. Prepare to be amazed by the heartwarming bond between animals and students, as we discover the transformative impact they have in occupational therapy. Discover the importance of building rapport and understanding the non-verbal communication methods employed by students as forms of expression. Carolyn also reflects on the emotional needs of the job and the necessity of finding healthy ways to decompress after intense sessions.

The episode concludes with insights into the vital role of mentorship and coaching in the occupational therapy profession. Discover how mentoring and guidance can shape and enhance the therapist's understanding of incorporating animals into sessions, ultimately leading to more effective outcomes for her students.

Tune in to this thought-provoking episode as we gain valuable insights into the challenges, rewards, and therapeutic moments experienced by an new grad on her path towards professional growth and helping individuals of all abilities thrive.

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 In this episode, we explore the topic of alternative treatment spaces for therapy sessions and discuss various environments such as converted barns, outdoor nature settings, and aquatic spaces. We address the challenges and considerations involved in transitioning from traditional clinical settings to these non-traditional or unconventional spaces. The episode offers practical insights and tips on setting up safe, effective, and engaging therapy environments that cater to clients' needs while being cost-effective and flexible. We also discuss the importance of community integration and partnering with facilities to make therapy accessible. Join us as we dive into the world of alternative treatment spaces and discover how they can enhance therapeutic outcomes and create novel experiences for clients.

For more information on coaching with Gina: CLICK HERE

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 In honor of Mother's Day, this episode of Animals and Aquatics Podcast explores the challenges and opportunities for occupational therapists who are also mothers. Hosted by Gina Taylor, a licensed OT and mother of three, this episode discusses the benefits of nature, support and mentoring for reducing stress, increasing job satisfaction, and finding balance between family and career. Featuring personal stories, and research-based tips, this episode is a must-listen for all OT moms looking for support, inspiration, and practical strategies when working outside the traditional OT settings.

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In this episode, we explore the benefits of mentoring for occupational therapists interested in animal-assisted therapy (AAT). Our host, a occupational therapist and mentor, shares her insights on why mentoring is essential for OTs starting in AAT, and the ways in which mentorship can enhance their professional growth and development. We dive into the importance of having a supportive and experienced mentor, who can provide guidance on clinical practice, ethical considerations, and career advancement.

Through personal anecdotes and examples, Gina highlights the various ways in which mentoring can benefit both the mentor and the mentee, including improved job satisfaction, increased knowledge and skills, and the development of a strong professional network. 

Whether you are a seasoned OT looking to expand your practice or a new graduate seeking guidance in partnering with animals, this episode provides valuable insights into the power of mentorship in occupational therapy. Tune in to learn how mentorship can enhance your professional journey, and help you achieve your goals in your occupational therapy journey.

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 In this episode, we explore the essential roles of the hippotherapy team in achieving therapeutic goals for clients. As a hippotherapy clinical specialist, our host explains the key players of the team, including the therapist, horse, horse handler, and therapy aide, and how they work together to support the client. We discuss the importance of communication and collaboration among team members, as well as ongoing assessment and evaluation of the client's progress. Listeners will gain an understanding of how the horse's movement can be used to achieve occupational therapy goals, the importance of selecting the right horse for hippotherapy, and proper techniques for horse handling and side walking. Join us as we dive into the power of teamwork and the role of the hippotherapy team in promoting safe and effective occupational therapy sessions. 

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In this episode, we discuss strategies for transitioning clients into aquatic occupational therapy sessions, particularly with pediatric populations. We highlight the challenges that come with working with children, including their uncertainty, anxiety levels, and varying comfort and skill levels with the pool.

To address these challenges, we share several helpful tips and recommendations. We discuss how we filmed a video of our journey to the facility, parking, and walking to the pool, to provide both the parents and clients with a familiarization of the process. We also recommend asking screening questions related to clients' comfort level and skill level in the pool, to prepare the therapist with the necessary materials and assistance. Additionally, we highlight the importance of setting up materials for each client to ensure quick and smooth transitions, and anticipating potential issues or barriers to participation beforehand.

We also discuss practical recommendations for parents, such as dressing their child with a bathing suit underneath their street clothes, and knowing the location of restrooms and locker rooms to minimize the time needed for preparation. We also suggest presenting low social demands, such as quick compliments or small talk, to put the clients at ease before inviting them to participate in the pool.

Overall, we hope these strategies will help therapists and parents ease the transition into aquatic occupational therapy sessions for children and increase safety and participation. Tune in for more insights and tips on this topic.