Psychiatric Center - OTA Student
Jacquelyn Nichols - Occupational Therapy Assistant Student
Erie Community College, Williamsville, New York
(9/23/05) Level I-B clinical practice, as part of the curriculum, landed me at the Buffalo Psychiatric Center for 2 weeks. I worked with three occupational therapists, nurses, therapy aides, and social workers.
I immediately sent a thank you letter after completion because I thought it so special to be a part of a world that is somewhat forgotten and stereotyped. It was so nice to see that patients are given hope, choices, a chance to grow, and mentoring on developing relationships.
I have always leaned toward the mental health side of occupational therapy and am looking forward to being a part of that crew. Participating in meetings with all health care professionals who deal with patients and then interviewing the patient and determining what level of readiness they have achieved just added to an extraordinary experience, and I was able to initiate several activities that were purposeful to the patients. The occupational therapists made all I have been learning from books come to life!