Occupational Therapy

Sharon Fisher, OTR, CLT, CHT

Title: Occupational Therapy Supervisor
Board Certification: Certified Hand Therapist, Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Certified in Neurodevelopmental Therapy
University Attended: Western Michigan University
Degrees: BS
Years in profession: 13

Tiffany Paavola, OTR, ATP

Title: Staff Occupational Therapist
Board Certification: Assistive Technology Practioner
University Attended: Western Michigan University
Degrees: BS
Years in profession: 12

Beth Mull, COTA, PTA

Title: Occupational Therapy Assistant
University Attended: Baker College
Degrees: BS
Years in profession: 4

WHAT IS OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY?

Every day, children and adults have or develop health conditions that significantly affect their ability to manage their daily lives. With the help of occupational therapy, many of these individuals can achieve or regain a higher level of independence. Occupational therapy is a skilled therapy based on performing the meaningful activities of daily life (self-care skills, education, work, or social interaction). When strength and skill cannot be developed or improved, occupational therapy offers solutions and alternatives for carrying out normal daily activities. Occupational therapy practitioners are unique in that they look at the whole picture when it comes to assessing the individual’s abilities, the tasks the individual needs to perform, as well as the environment in which the task takes place.

Keweenaw Memorial Medical Center offers occupational therapy in a variety of locations for your convenience. Our outpatient centers are located in Houghton and Laurium. Keweenaw Memorial Hospital in Laurium provides inpatient occupational therapy services.

WHAT IS AN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST?

An occupational therapist is a skilled health care professional who evaluates and treats people with disabling conditions. Occupational therapists examine patients’ past medical history and perform specific tests and measurements to determine the patients’ deficits. The therapist then devises a specific treatment plan to address the individuals’ treatment needs and goals. An Occupational therapist’s education includes the study of human growth and development, with specific emphasis on the social, emotional, and physiological effects of illness and injury. Along with various other services, the occupational therapist may instruct patients in exercises, perform manual techniques, fabricate splints, suggest adaptive devices and assist in workstation modifications. Occupational therapists often consult and practice with a variety of other professionals, such as physicians, educators, social workers, and physical therapists. They also provide guidance to family members and caregivers regarding the patient’s care.

WHAT IS AN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT?

Once the occupational therapist evaluates a patient and develops an individualized treatment plan, the OTA performs components of the treatment plan under the direction and supervision of the therapist. Care provided by an OTA may include instructing patients in exercises, performing various modalities, or instructing patients in proper use of assistive devices, splints or braces.

TYPES OF PROBLEMS TREATED IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY:

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PROGRAMS AND SERVICES OFFERED: