I've been feeling like this all year. Working in a school for kids with severe cognitive impairments, I'm tired of not being able to "fix" them. No one wants adaptations, environmental changes, they just want the disability to go away. --------
You know...this is EXACTLY why I love being an OT. Every time I have been frustrated by my job or the particular setting/population, I have spent some time reflecting on my plot in life then I've either changed the way I practice or changed settings. I've worked in long term care, schools, inpatient, outpatient...you name it, I've at least dabbled in it. (Right now I only work in low vision and I absolutely LOVE it. It is the first setting that I have felt I may stay in for the rest of my career.) Most of the time I stuck with my main job then "dabbled" by doing some PRN work in another area. I have always felt this global view of people (all ages/stages of life) helped my therapy skills because I could see the whole continuum and treat clients in a way that viewed them as a whole person...working their way through life's continuum. Just a suggestion, maybe you could find a continuing education course that would light your fire again. Or, maybe a little moonlighting...or a visit to a therapist who is working in a similar field who is doing some sort of revolutionary program. Then again, sometimes it is just time for a change. If you are hitting a brick wall over and over (if the teachers/parents/administration have unrealistic expectations and you just can't get through), maybe it is time to go around that brick wall and look for another setting. Just some thoughts. Jenny Daup -- Options? www.otnow.com/mailman/options/otlist_otnow.com Archive? www.mail-archive.com/[email protected] ************************************************************************************** Enroll in Boston University's post-professional Master of Science for OTs Online. Gain the skills and credentials to propel your career. www.otdegree.com/otn **************************************************************************************
