Occupational Therapist

Job Title: Occupational Therapist for Special Children

Location: Someros Building, DBP extension Naga road, Pulang Lupa Dos Las Pinas, 1742,

Reports To: Rehabilitation Department Head / Clinical Director / School Administrator

Work Schedule: Full-time, Monday to Saturday (Flexible Hours as Required)

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience

The Occupational Therapist (OT) will provide evidence-based, client-centered therapy services to children with special needs, including but not limited to those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), cerebral palsy, down syndrome, developmental delays, ADHD, sensory integration dysfunction, and learning disabilities. The OT will evaluate, plan, and implement individualized therapy programs aimed at enhancing children's functional independence in home, school, and community settings.

Assessment & Evaluation

• Conduct thorough occupational therapy evaluations using standardized and non-standardized assessment tools appropriate to the child’s age and diagnosis (e.g., PEDI, BOT-2, Sensory Profile)
• Collect and analyze relevant data from parents, teachers, and other allied professionals
• Develop detailed occupational therapy reports with baseline measurements and functional goals
• Reassess clients periodically to monitor progress and adjust interventions accordingly

Therapy Planning & Implementation

• Design individualized intervention plans addressing fine motor skills, visual-perceptual integration, self-care routines, sensory processing, play skills, and executive functioning
• Implement direct therapy sessions based on treatment goals aligned with the child's developmental needs
• Incorporate culturally relevant approaches and materials suitable for Filipino families and children
• Use play-based and functional activities within natural settings such as classrooms, homes, and playgrounds

Collaboration & Family Involvement

• Educate and guide parents, guardians, and caregivers on home-based strategies and follow-up activities
• Collaborate with special education teachers, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, and psychologists in an interdisciplinary team
• Attend and participate in Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings, parent conferences, and case reviews

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate and timely records including therapy notes, progress reports, attendance logs, and goal updates
• Ensure compliance with ethical standards of the Philippine Academy of Occupational Therapists (PAOT) and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)
• Prepare reports and documentation for developmental pediatricians, schools, and funding agencies when needed

Program Development & Advocacy

• Assist in the creation of inclusive classroom environments and adaptive equipment solutions
• Conduct community education, outreach programs, and caregiver training for developmental screening and early intervention
• Participate in continuing professional development activities, workshops, and local conferences

• Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from a CHED-recognized institution
• A licensed Occupational Therapist in the Philippines is preferred; however, graduates of the program are also encouraged to apply

Experience

• Experience in pediatric occupational therapy is an advantage, but new board passers and recent graduates with solid internship exposure are welcome to apply
• Familiarity with school-based or clinic-based therapy settings is a plus
• Exposure to working with children with ASD, sensory processing challenges, or neurodevelopmental conditions is highly valued

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of child development and therapeutic principles
• Proficient in using local and culturally relevant resources for therapy
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, especially in working with Filipino families
• Empathetic, patient, creative, and child-friendly approach
• Tech-savvy with ability to use EMR systems or digital therapy tools, when applicable

Work Environment & Equipment

• May work in multiple settings: clinics, special schools, homes, community centers
• Must be capable of lifting and handling children with mobility challenges
• Familiarity with sensory integration tools, adaptive devices, therapy swings, and gross motor equipment required

Additional Requirements

• Valid NBI Clearance for employment
• Updated Basic Life Support (BLS) or First Aid Training (preferred)
• Willingness to travel locally if doing home visits or outreach programs