The role of occupational therapists in supporting first responders with occupational stress injuries (November 21, 2023)

Presented by: Dr. Iris Torchalla and Kimberley Lennox, Reg. OT (BC)  

The occupational therapist’s role in providing evidence-based interventions for people living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an emerging field of practice with important implications. Given the inherent mental health risks associated with work as first responders, some provinces have put in place supports and programs to facilitate access to mental health services. One example is the presumptive legislation in British Columbia (Government of British Columbia, 2018) that allows first responders to obtain support through WorkSafeBC’s Occupational Trauma Response service model, which includes referral to occupational therapy. Health care professionals providing support to first responders need to be aware of the unique challenges they face due to the nature of their job. This webinar aims to provide occupational therapists with information about occupational stress injuries and PTSD in first responder populations and important considerations for their recovery. Prevalence rates of trauma exposure and PTSD in first responders will be described. The webinar will discuss best practice guidelines for therapy for people with PTSD and existing studies conducted with first responders. The unique experiences of first responders and how they differ from civilians will be described. The webinar will conclude by discussing how existing evidence-based intervention protocols can be adjusted to meet their unique needs.

After taking part in this webinar, participants will be able to: 

1. Describe evidence-based PTSD therapy protocols and their therapy components.
2. Identify the unique experiences of first responders that might impact their recovery and response to therapy.
3. Understand how the occupational therapist and the psychologist can work together to adapt existing therapy to first responders' needs.

Level  Intermediate (3-5 years of experience in this specific practice area) 

Area of practice Mental health, Psychotherapy, Return to Work

Client age group Adults (20-64 years old)