OT Conversations that Matter: The Podcast Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists

In Episode 40 of OT Conversations that Matter: The Podcast, host Justine Jecker dives into what it means to change occupations with guests Mary Julieth Rivera Rincon and Laura García Diaz. Having spent their early lives outside of Canada, Julieth and Laura share their experiences maneuvering different industries, embracing newfound passions, and engaging in life transitions in the “Canadian culture”. Motivations driving these pivotal shifts, such as professional advancement, personal fulfillment, and adapting to a dynamic job landscape, are highlighted in this discussion. Tune in to hear more about self-assessment strategies, skill honing, and networking essentials that have helped Julieth and Laura navigate these transitions while maintaining personal well-being. Together, they shed light on the challenges and triumphs inherent in reshaping one's personal and professional identities.

In Episode 39 of OT Conversations that Matter, host Justine Jecker is joined by occupational therapists Michèle L. Hébert and Nadine Larivière for an important discussion on suicide prevention within occupational therapy. Focusing on the new Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) Position Statement, the conversation highlights the need to thrive and live, moving beyond the idea of survival. This podcast episode comes on the heals of years of advocacy and numerous publications from the Addressing Suicide in Occupational Therapy Practice Network. Its debut en franglais, marks a first for the podcast seamlessly blending English and French, a true representation of how the position statement came to be. Listeners are encouraged to tune in to explore how everyone can incorporate suicide prevention in their professional practice. 


We recognize that this topic can sometimes feel heavy and may bring up a variety of emotions you may have not been anticipating. Please know there are organizations available to provide support if you, a friend or loved one are struggling, including the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline Service which can be reached 24/7 at 9-8-8.

Cette conversation parlera de suicide, un sujet qui peut bouleverser. Si vous pensez au suicide ou connaissez une personne qui vous inquiète, nous vous invitons à téléphoner au 988, ligne d'aide téléphonique en cas de crise de suicide. 

Resources


Episode transcript
CAOT Position Statement- Occupational Therapy to Prevent and Heal from Suicide (2023) 
Prise de position de l'ACE : L'ergothérapie pour prévenir le suicide et soutenir le rétablissement (2023) 
Simon Sineck’s TED Talk on Why? How? What?  

In episode 38 of OT Conversations that Matter: The Podcast, host Justine Jecker explores the intersection of occupational therapy and homelessness in collaboration with occupational therapists Becky Marval and Laurence Roy. Together, they discuss the multifaceted approach to acknowledging and addressing homelessness through meaningful occupation using humanistic approaches. From evaluating self-care skills to addressing environmental barriers, OTs empower individuals to regain daily living skills and prepare for housing transitions while providing vital support for mental health challenges, substance use, and social integration. Tune in to learn more about how OTs connect clients with community resources, vocational training, and social activities, fostering belonging and paving the way for a brighter future amidst adversity. 

In Episode 37 of OT Conversations that Matter: The Podcast, host Justine Jecker is joined by Australian occupational therapist Bradley Williams. Together, they discuss the profound ways occupational therapy fosters meaningful engagement, drawing from eastern ways of knowing such as the Japanese concept of Ikigai which acknowledges the intersection of passion, mission, profession, and vocation. Exploring the interweaving of an occupational therapy professional's work, beliefs, values, passions, and goals, this podcast discussion invites listeners to unravel the essence of occupation and passion in a shared quest for fulfillment.

The Becoming Collective

In Episode 36 of OT Conversations that Matter: The Podcast, host Justine Jecker and occupational therapist Crystal Dieleman, explore holistic occupational therapy service provision with persons in prison and forensic mental health settings, and with clients who have a criminal record. Today, 1 in 7 adult Canadians have a criminal record, but are not in prison or forensic settings. This discussion sheds light on how societal factors influence participation in criminal occupations and emphasizes the need for OTs/OTAs to address personal and professional biases and provide equitable care to all individuals, regardless of their past experiences.

For episode 35 of OT Conversations that Matter: The Podcast, host Justine Jecker is joined by occupational therapist Skye Barbic to discuss the expansive scope of occupational therapy in mental health service delivery. Together, they unpack the profound impact OT has on wholistic well-being and the significance of meaningful occupation. Occupational therapists across Canada are tirelessly advocating for acknowledgment as essential mental healthcare providers. To better understand the current state of affairs, Skye and Justine explore the historical and contemporary perceptions surrounding occupational therapy, especially within current mental health contexts. This episode serves as a navigational compass, guiding the profession on its journey to reclaim its collective identity as mental health service providers.