We are seeking a compassionate and experienced occupational therapist to work with children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental concerns. The occupational therapist will assess each child’s functional abilities and provide individualized, evidence-informed interventions to improve participation in daily activities at home, school, and in the community.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively with pediatricians, speech-language pathologists, psychologists, clinical associates, educators, behavioral therapists, and families.
Key Responsibilities
- Complete comprehensive occupational therapy assessments related to sensory processing, fine-motor skills, visual-motor integration, self-care, feeding, emotional regulation, play, and daily functioning.
- Develop individualized treatment plans based on the child’s strengths, needs, developmental level, and family priorities.
- Provide therapy for children with autism, developmental delays, sensory differences, coordination difficulties, and emotional or behavioral regulation challenges.
- Support development of dressing, feeding, toileting, handwriting, school-readiness, play, and independent living skills.
- Assess and address sensory sensitivities, sensory-seeking behaviors, motor-planning difficulties, and challenges with transitions.
- Develop practical sensory and regulation strategies for use at home, at school, and in the community.
- Provide parent education, coaching, and home-program recommendations.
- Collaborate with schools and community providers when appropriate and with caregiver consent.
- Prepare clear, timely, and professional assessment reports, progress notes, and treatment recommendations.
- Participate in interdisciplinary case discussions and care planning.
- Recommend adaptive equipment, environmental modifications, and community resources when indicated.
- Maintain professional, ethical, and confidential clinical documentation.
Qualifications
- Master’s or bachelor's degree in occupational therapy from a recognized institution.
- Current registration and good standing with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario.
- Professional liability insurance.
- Experience working with autistic children and children with developmental or behavioral concerns.
- Knowledge of sensory processing, emotional regulation, fine-motor development, self-care skills, feeding, and school participation.
- Strong clinical assessment, treatment-planning, documentation, and communication skills.
- Ability to provide neurodiversity-affirming, family-centered, and strengths-based care.
- Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
- Experience communicating with families, educators, and community professionals.
Preferred Qualifications
- At least one year of pediatric occupational therapy experience.
- Training or experience in sensory integration, feeding therapy, emotional regulation, motor development, handwriting, or assistive technology.
- Experience completing standardized pediatric occupational therapy assessments.
- Familiarity with Ontario autism, developmental, educational, and community support services.
- Experience working in a private clinic, pediatric practice, school, or multidisciplinary developmental setting.
Skills and Personal Attributes
- Warm, patient, compassionate, and child-centered approach.
- Strong understanding of autism and neurodiversity.
- Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills.
- Respect for cultural, linguistic, and family diversity.
- Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
- Commitment to evidence-informed practice and ongoing professional development.
Additional Requirements
- Current vulnerable-sector police check.
- Current CPR and first aid certification.
- Ability to travel between clinic, home, or school settings when required.
- Access to reliable transportation, where applicable.
Compensation: Competitive and based on experience and employment arrangement.
Pay: $50.00-$75.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Flexible schedule
Work Location: In person
