Observational Experiences

South Jefferson Physical Therapy

(Adams, NY)

This was my first observational experience as an OT student at Keuka College! I was fortunate to be able to observe several Physical Therapy sessions as well as a hand specialist. Early on in the experience, I was introduced to the TENS Unit as well as cold and hot packs. This experience helped me to recognize many of the similarities and differences between physical therapy and ocupational therapy! It also allowed me to become more familiar with an outpatient setting.

Loretto Health and Rehabilitation

(Syracuse, NY)

This acute/long term care facility was where I observed an OT for the very first time. I was able to see a lot of different conditions/diagnosis and I got to meet and interact with a lot of different therapists and other OT's. Most of the OT therapy sessions were conducted in one large therapy room where there was all kinds of different equipment for clients and therapists to use during the sessions.

Syracuse City School District/ Seymour School (Syracuse, NY)

The OT that I observed worked between two different schools within the same district. During my time observing, I was able to interact with children and even help them stay focused on the activities that they were doing during their session. One notable thing about this experience was that in one of the schools, the designated OT therapy room was extremely small, so there was a limit on how many students the OT could have in there at one time. During my time here, I got to watch the administration of several assessments such as the Beery VMI, the BOT-2, and the MVPT 4.

Children's Therapy Network

(Syracuse, NY)

I was able to observe an Early Intervention Speech Language Pathologist who mostly provides therapy directly in the home setting. I really enjoyed the idea of working with kids in their home setting because they seem a lot more comfortable. It is also beneficial to be able to interact with the parents during the sessions as well. I also observed children in a daycare program, as well as a specialized school which provides related services.