The role of occupational therapy in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (August 30, 2022)

Presented by: John Killoran and Iris Torchalla

The occupational therapist’s role in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an emerging field of practice with important implications. Understanding how an occupational therapist can be involved in the delivery of evidence-based PTSD treatment and make unique contributions to trauma-focused psychotherapies may facilitate the transition to more consistent interventions, and better outcomes for those who are living with PTSD. 

This webinar will discuss current clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of PTSD and review the unique role that occupational therapy plays in the treatment of trauma-focused psychotherapy, including how occupational therapists can support clients to improve their functioning in areas of self-care, productivity, and leisure, to reclaim their lives. This webinar will also discuss how occupational therapists can effectively utilize clinical interventions such as psychoeducation, reactivation, coping skills training, and in-vivo exposure to support clients in their recovery, and how they can collaborate with counsellors and psychologists to provide comprehensive care.

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

1. Define evidence-based PTSD therapy protocols and their treatment components.
2. Identify occupational therapists’ role within the treatment of trauma-focused psychotherapies, including their role in providing psychoeducation, coping skills training, reactivation, and in-vivo exposure.
3. Explain how occupational therapists and psychologists can effectively collaborate in the treatment of PTSD.

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

Area of practice Fieldwork/Education, Mental health, Older adults, Psychotherapy, Research, Return to work, Veterans Affairs or Armed Forces

Client age group Adults (20-64 years old), Older adults (65+ years old)

Language English

Please note that you will have access to the On-Demand Webinar for a period of one year or until the webinar expiry date listed in the CAOT Store, whichever is sooner. The terminology used in this webinar is reflective of the CAOT Style Guide at time of the webinar.