Occupational Therapist

Background

FIRST Step Together Association (FISTA) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to supporting individuals with cognitive impairments, communication disorders, psycho-motor difficulties, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, hyperactivity, behavioral, and psycho-social problems. Established in 1993 and located in North Lebanon, FISTA’s mission is to provide education, vocational training, and professional rehabilitation for persons with disabilities, and to advocate for their rights. FISTA adheres to a strict zero-tolerance policy against any form of gift, favor, or hospitality offered to its staff by suppliers. This policy extends to a firm stance against sexual harassment, exploitation, abuse, and child abuse, with a commitment to thoroughly investigate all allegations and take appropriate disciplinary action when necessary.

FISTA is looking for an Occupational Therapist Under the “Shabake2” Project which aims to enhance the resilience of civil society organizations in Lebanon to improve crisis prevention and management.

The Occupational Therapist (OT) is responsible for providing comprehensive occupational therapy services to individuals with physical, emotional, or developmental disabilities. The OT will assess patients' needs, develop personalized treatment plans, and implement therapeutic interventions to improve their ability to perform daily activities and enhance their overall quality of life. This role involves working closely with other healthcare professionals, caregivers, and the patients themselves to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough assessments of patients' physical, emotional, and developmental needs.
• Use standardized tests, clinical observations, and patient interviews to evaluate the extent of patients' impairments and their ability to perform daily activities.
• Develop individualized treatment plans based on the assessment results, patient goals, and current best practices in occupational therapy.
• Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for patients.
• Implement a variety of therapeutic interventions, including exercises, adaptive techniques, and the use of assistive devices.
• Provide training and education to patients and their families on the use of adaptive equipment and techniques to improve daily living skills.
• Work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including physicians, physical therapists, speech therapists, and social workers, to coordinate patient care.
• Participate in case conferences and team meetings to discuss patient progress and modify treatment plans as needed.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, including assessment results, treatment plans, progress notes, and discharge summaries.
• Prepare detailed reports for insurance companies and other stakeholders as required.
• Educate patients and their families about their conditions and the role of occupational therapy in managing them.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, ethical standards, and organizational policies.
• Maintain a safe and therapeutic environment for patients at all times.

Qualifications and Experience

• A Bachelor’s degree in Occupational therapy is required.
• Experience: Previous experience in a clinical setting is preferred.
• Working Conditions:
• Work may involve exposure to challenging situations with patients experiencing physical or emotional distress.

Soft Skills:

• Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to relate well to others is essential.
• Communication Skills: Must possess excellent verbal communication and active listening skills.
• Patience: The ability to remain patient throughout the treatment process.
• Trustworthiness: Expected to maintain confidentiality of patient information.
• Empathy: An understanding and identification with others’ experiences.
• Critical Thinking Skills: The capacity to accurately diagnose and develop effective treatment plans.
• Commitment to human rights principles.
• Respect for the roles and positions of each team member.
• Flexibility to adapt to special situations or supervisor requests.
• The ability to work with patients from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.