May 15 – May 28, 2025 (on your own) 

May 29 and 30, 2025 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

What time is this for me?

Seating and mobility assessments are a critical part of all aspects of facilitating participation in occupations of life for those that have limitations in independent mobility (e.g., Gallagher et al., 2022; World Health Organization, 2023). To complete a seating and mobility prescription, therapists must be aware of physical, perceptual, visual, psychosocial, and emotional impacts on the client's mobility and seated posture, as well as consider their context and needs. Occupational therapists provide a critical component in the assessment and provision of assistive technology. An integral part of this assessment is a physical MAT assessment, which requires a hands-on assessment of the client to determine joint range of motion for a functional seated posture. To justify equipment prescriptions to third party payors as well as the client themselves, occupational therapists need to understand posture (normal posture and deviations from normal), as well as the theory and physics behind the use and provision of assistive technology to ensure no harm is done to the client (World Health Organization, 2022).

This online workshop will provide an overview of key considerations of assessing and understanding the impact of postural asymmetries to prepare an equipment prescription for clients of any age. The prerecorded lectures will review anatomy landmarking critical for assessing seated posture, as well as MAT assessment techniques to determine range of motion, and resultant reducible or non-reducible postures. Components of the MAT assessment, including the pelvis, trunk, hip, knee, foot, and thigh, will be explored with consideration to how they affect postural outcomes for head positioning in midline. Typical asymmetries of the pelvis and spine found in the seated position will be explored and reviewed with an understanding of how these asymmetries and gravitational factors can negatively affect head positioning through fatigue and pain. Participants will then apply the information learned to case studies with the goal of being ability to complete a thorough and justifiable wheeled mobility and seating prescription based on the assessment data gathered.

Preliminary workshop agenda

Pre-recorded lecture: May 15 – May 28, 2025 (on your own)

Day 1: May 29, 2025 from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

Day 2: May 30, 2025 from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

Learning objectives

By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:

1.    Understand the importance of completing a MAT Assessment.
2.    Recognize the impact of asymmetrical posture on all aspects of seating/wheeled mobility and body function.
3.    Recognize forces related to three-point positioning.
4.    Identify pelvic landmarks related to seated posture.
5.    Apply MAT assessment findings to simulation of corrected or accommodated posture recognize non reducible asymmetrical postures

Target audience

Occupational therapist clinicians, occupational therapist assistants (OTAs), physiotherapists, and physiotherapist assistants (PTAs) who wish to develop their skills in optimal seating and mobility through an increased understanding of postural asymmetries.

Please note: Each participant is responsible to ensure they apply the information within the context of their licensure, provincial/territorial legislations, institution regulations, scope of practice, etc.

Client age group

Young children (0-4 years old), Children (5-12 years old), Adolescents (13-19 years old), Adults (20-64 years old), Older adults (65+ years old)

Areas of practice

Assistive Technology, Brain Injury/Concussion/Spinal Cord, Chronic Pain, Developmental Disability, Equipment Assessments, Neurology, Older Adults, Orthopedics, Occupational Therapist Assistant (OTA), Pediatrics

Workshop level

Beginner (0-2 years of experience in this area of practice)

Please note: Participants with more than this stated level of experience are welcome to attend the workshop. The workshop content will be geared towards those with 0-2 years of experience in this area of practice.

Presenter

Sheila Buck, OT Reg. (Ont.)

Sheila is an occupational therapist and the owner of a seating and mobility consulting company, Therapy NOW, in Ontario, Canada. Sheila has spoken extensively in North America, Ireland, Norway and New Zealand on seating and mobility concepts for the very young to the very old. Her audiences have included, but are not limited to, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, nurses, doctors, case managers, DME (Durable Medical Equipment) vendors and manufacturers of seating and mobility products.  Her extensive knowledge related to the provision of assistive technology for mobility is reflected in her book More than 4 wheels:  Applying clinical practice to seating, mobility and assistive technology, 3rd edition. This excellent clinical guide is currently being used as a learning tool around the world with over 1200 copies sold. Sheila is also a contributing author in the recently published Seating and Wheeled Mobility: A Clinical Resource Guide. Sheila is known for her dynamic sessions which are enhanced by demonstrations of practical suggestions, as well as her compassion for clients and advancing her learning and skills to those with whom she works. 

Registration fees

Early bird rates: Registration and payment completed by March 26, 2025

Regular rates: Registration and payment completed after March 26, 2025

Registration deadline: May 29, 2025 at 11:59 a.m. (Eastern Time)

Please note that CAOT does not offer group registration fees.  

*It may be more cost effective to become a CAOT Member or Associate rather than pay the non-member rate. See “Can a non-member register for a Workshop?” in our Professional Development FAQs to know which membership category you are eligible for.

Included in your registration fee:

Online workshop, access to the recording for a period of 14 days following the workshop, electronic copy of presentation slide handouts, opportunity to network and make connections with other occupational therapists interested in this topic, electronic certificate of attendance.

Cancellation/refund policy

All cancellation/refund requests must be sent in writing to education@caot.ca. All cancellation requests received by April 30, 2025 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. No refunds will be given after April 30, 2025. Substitutions and transfers requests received by April 30, 2025 are permitted and are subject to a $50.00 administrative fee. 

If you are exceptionally unable to complete the workshop, please reach out to education@caot.ca by 25 days following the end of the workshop for extended access to the recording (up to one month after the end of the workshop) or a one-time transfer to another offering of the  same workshop if currently open for registration.  CAOT reserves the right to modify the workshop title, description, registration dates and information on the workshop webpage. CAOT will notify participants on or before April 4, 2025 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until April 18, 2025. CAOT reserves the right to modify the offering, interrupt Workshops, change the timing of a Workshop, cancel a Workshop or change the technology for the Workshop due to the presenter no longer being able to present the Workshop, severe weather, power failure, building closures or other special circumstances that are beyond the control of CAOT by notifying participants as soon as possible. If the Workshop is cancelled by CAOT, registrants will receive a full refund of the registration fee. CAOT will not be responsible for other costs or expenses incurred by registrants as a result of any such changes.

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Please note that workshop is offered in English.

Friday, March 28, 2025

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

What time is this for me?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental illness characterized by the presence of unwanted obsessions and compulsions (American Psychiatric Association, 2022). It is a chronic condition which can be complex and severely disabling. At one point, OCD was rated the 10th most disabling illness in the world by loss income and decreased quality life (World Health Organization, 1999). Although newer research has improved therapy for OCD, access to evidence-based assessment and therapy can still be challenging. In Canada, it is estimated that OCD affects 1-2% of the population, with many experiencing significant symptoms before 25 years of age (CMHA, 2013). Consequently, OCD can have a significant negative impact on individuals' participation across all areas of occupation. Occupational therapists are uniquely positioned to effectively address these occupational challenges by using an occupational lens to assess clients' challenges and co-create values-based therapy goals. By collaboratively focusing on clients' valued occupations in meaningful contexts, clients are more likely to be motivated to actively engage and participate in therapy.

 This workshop is ideal for occupational therapists who wish to increase their understanding of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as well as enhance their skills in assessment and exposure response therapy using an occupational lens. The workshop will begin with an overview of OCD, the OCD cycle, and specific occupational therapy assessments for people living with OCD. Current evidence-based approaches to support people living with OCD will be reviewed and application of these approaches using occupational models will be discussed. Specifically, the process of collaborating with clients to design and deliver values-based exposure and response prevention (ERP) in various settings including the client's home and the community. The presenters will also discuss the importance of involving clients' family members or loved ones in therapy for OCD and how best to involve them in the therapy process. All of the above concepts will culminate in small group discussions and role play in the second half of the workshop, to allow participants to observe and practice their new knowledge and skills.

Preliminary workshop agenda

Learning objectives

By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:

1. Understand components of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and develop a behavioural conceptualization of OCD.
2. Identify and apply appropriate occupational models during the assessment process and developing a therapy plan with people living with OCD.
3. Explain what exposure and response prevention (ERP) is and how it works.
4. State guidelines and principles to deliver ERP effectively.
5. Identify the role of family members or loved ones in the therapy of OCD.

Target audience

Occupational therapist clinicians and educators who want to increase their knowledge and skills in evidence-based assessment and therapy with an occupational lens for people living with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Students in occupational therapy programs are also welcome to participate.

Please note: Each participant is responsible to ensure they apply the information within the context of their licensure, provincial/territorial legislations, institution regulations, scope of practice, etc.

Client age group

Adolescents (13-19 years old), Adults (20-64 years old)

Areas of practice

Autism/Neurodiversity, Case Management, Mental Health, Psychotherapy, Return to Work

Workshop level

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

Please note: Participants with more or less than this stated level of experience are welcome to attend the workshop. The workshop content will be geared towards those with 3-5 years of experience.

Presenter

Aliza Ladak, OT Reg. (Ont.)

Aliza is an occupational therapist with a passion to help people reclaim their lives from OCD and anxiety disorders. She has 11 years of mental health experience in public and private settings. At Sunnybrook’s Frederick Thompson Centre, Aliza delivered high quality OCD treatment in their outpatient services and was the first OT in Canada’s residential treatment program for severe OCD. She is currently pioneering the development of their aftercare program and continues to contribute to educational initiatives and disseminates OCD knowledge to build capacity in community clinicians. Aliza delivers cutting-edge exposure and response prevention therapy through a practical and functional lens to help her clients get unstuck from OCD’s endless loops, pursue their goals, and lead fulfilling lives.

Nathania Lukman, OT Reg. (Ont.), Psychotherapist

Nathania Lukman is an occupational therapist practicing in mental health. She is a clinician at the Thompson Anxiety Disorders Centre at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre working in their Intensive OCD Treatment Program as the occupational therapist and interim team lead (currently on maternity leave). As part of her role, she oversaw the day-to-day operations of the intensive program, developed and delivered individual ERP treatment plans, and facilitated various groups within the program. Outside of the Thompson Centre, NaRegistration and payment completed after January 29, 2025thania operates Valued Living Therapy Services, a private practice where she provides virtual and in-home/in-community occupational therapy and psychotherapy services. In her clinical practice, Nathania utilizes a variety of evidence-based treatments including CBT/ERP and Inference-based CBT for OCD, ACT, CFT and Motivational Interviewing. Nathania has a special interest and passion in working with neurodiverse individuals and the perinatal population.

Registration fees

Early bird rates: Registration and payment completed by January 29, 2025

Regular rates: Registration and payment completed after January 29, 2025

Registration deadline: March 28, 2025 at 9:59 a.m. (Eastern Time)

Please note that CAOT does not offer group registration fees.  Pending sufficient space, CAOT offers late registration for workshops at the regular rate plus a $50 administration fee until 11:59 p.m. (Pacific time) two days prior to the workshop start date to ensure registrants receive access to the workshop login details and materials in the reminder email.

*It may be more cost effective to become a CAOT Member or Associate rather than pay the non-member rate. See “Can a non-member register for a Workshop?” in our Professional Development FAQs to know which membership category you are eligible for. 

Included in your registration fee:

Online workshop, access to the recording for a period of 14 days following the workshop, electronic copy of presentation slide handouts, opportunity to network and make connections with other occupational therapists interested in this topic, electronic certificate of attendance.

Cancellation/refund policy

All cancellation/refund requests must be sent in writing to education@caot.ca. All cancellation requests received by March 12, 2025 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. No refunds will be given after March 12, 2025. Substitutions and transfers requests received by March 19, 2025 are permitted and are subject to a $50.00 administrative fee.

If you are exceptionally unable to complete the workshop, please reach out to education@caot.ca by 25 days following the end of the workshop for extended access to the recording (up to one month after the end of the workshop) or a one-time transfer to another offering of the same workshop if currently open for registration.

CAOT reserves the right to modify the workshop title, description, registration dates and information on the workshop webpage. CAOT will notify participants on or before February 14, 2025 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until February 28, 2025. CAOT reserves the right to modify the offering, interrupt Workshops, change the timing of a Workshop, cancel a Workshop or change the technology for the Workshop due to the presenter no longer being able to present the Workshop, severe weather, power failure, building closures or other special circumstances that are beyond the control of CAOT by notifying participants as soon as possible. If the Workshop is cancelled by CAOT, registrants will receive a full refund of the registration fee. CAOT will not be responsible for other costs or expenses incurred by registrants as a result of any such changes.

  Provide suggestions for Professional Development


The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) is committed to accessibility as expressed in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). We provide an electronic copy of the handouts approximately one week ahead of time in multiple slide layouts, auto-generated closed captioning through Zoom (excluding breakout rooms), as well as access to the recording for two weeks following the workshop. If you require additional special arrangements for accessibility, please contact education@caot.ca or 1-800-434-2268.  

Please note that workshop is offered in English.

Friday, November 29, 2024   

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

What time is this for me?

8 million people in Canada have chronic pain and this number is growing (Government of Canada, 2021). Occupational therapy professionals therefore encounter many clients experiencing chronic pain in a variety of practice settings. Several evidence-informed self-management techniques can support people living with pain, including meditation (e.g., la Cour & Petersen, 2015), cognitive behaviour therapy (e.g., Knoerl et al., 2016), acceptance and commitment therapy (e.g., Hughes et al., 2017), expressive writing (e.g., Ziemer, 2014), gratitude journalling (e.g., Boggiss et al., 2020) and visualization (e.g., Álvarez-García & Yaban, 2020). Occupational therapy professionals can teach these self-management techniques to help people with pain participate in their meaningful occupations.

This workshop is ideal for occupational therapy professionals who wish to increase their understanding of chronic pain and strategies that can be used to support people living with pain. An overview of chronic pain and the occupational therapy role will be provided. Participants will gain fundamental information on how the following self-management techniques can support people living with pain: meditation, cognitive behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, expressive writing, gratitude journalling, sensory modulation and visualization exercises. Lecture, self-reflection, case studies, and group discussion will be utilized to assist you in furthering your knowledge and clinical reasoning.

Preliminary workshop agenda

Learning objectives:

By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:

1. Define chronic pain.
2. Understand the occupational therapy role in supporting people living with pain.
3. Describe how meditation and visualization exercises can support people living with pain.
4. Describe how cognitive behaviour therapy can support people living with pain.
5. Describe how acceptance and commitment therapy can support people living with pain.
6. Describe how expressive writing and gratitude journalling can support people living with pain.
7. Describe how sensory modulation can support people living with pain.

Target audience:

Occupational therapists (OTs), occupational therapist assistants (OTAs), and students in occupational therapy or OTA/PTA programs who wish to gain knowledge on practical self-management strategies for people living with pain.  

Please note: Each participant is responsible to ensure they apply the information within the context of their licensure, provincial/territorial legislations, institution regulations, scope of practice, etc.

Areas of practice

Acute Care, Autism/Neurodiversity, Brain injury/Concussion/Spinal Cord, Caregiver/Family Education, Case Management, Chronic Disease Management, Chronic Pain, Generalist, Hand Therapy, Health Promotion & Wellness, Indigenous Health, MSK Rehabilitation, MVA Rehabilitation, Neurology, Older Adults, Orthopedics, Occupational Therapist Assistant, Palliative/EOL Care, Primary Care, Return to Work

Client age group

Adolescents (13-19 years old), Adults (20-64 years old), Older adults (65+ years old)

Workshop level

Beginner (0-2 years of experience in this specific practice area)

Please note: Participants with more than this stated level of experience are welcome to attend the workshop. The workshop content will be geared towards those with 0-2 years of experience.

Presenter:

Zara Dureno, Reg. OT (BC)

Zara Dureno is an occupational therapist with her Master of Occupational Therapy from the University of British Columbia and undergraduate degree in psychology with a focus on neuroscience. She is passionate about all things neurological health and has a practice base of clients with concussion, mental health and chronic pain diagnoses. She has a lived experience with chronic pain, having recovered from a serious horse back riding injury. She has taken many courses and done a lot of research on these subjects. Zara has done several presentations both locally and internationally and is very passionate about this field of care on a personal and professional level.

Registration fees

Early bird rates: Registration and payment completed by September 25, 2024

Regular rates: Registration and payment completed after September 25, 2024

Registration deadline: November 29, 2024 at 9:59 a.m. (Eastern Time)

Please note that CAOT does not offer group registration fees.  Pending sufficient space, CAOT offers late registration for workshops at the regular rate plus a $50 administration fee until 11:59 p.m. (Pacific time).  *It may be more cost effective to become a CAOT Member or Associate rather than pay the non-member rate. See “Can a non-member register for a Workshop?” in our Professional Development FAQs to know which membership category you are eligible for.  

Included in your registration fee:

Online workshop, access to the recording for a period of 14 days following the workshop, electronic copy of presentation slide handouts, opportunity to network and make connections with other occupational therapists interested in this topic, electronic certificate of attendance.

Cancellation/refund policy

All cancellation/refund requests must be sent in writing to  education@caot.ca. All cancellation requests received by November 13, 2024 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. No refunds will be given after November 13, 2024. Substitutions and transfers requests received by November 20, 2024 are permitted and are subject to a $50.00 administrative fee.

If you are exceptionally unable to complete the workshop, please reach out to  education@caot.ca by 25 days following the end of the workshop for extended access to the recording (up to one month after the end of the workshop) or a one-time transfer to another offering of the same workshop if currently open for registration.  CAOT reserves the right to modify the workshop title, description, registration dates and information on the workshop webpage. CAOT will notify participants on or before October 18, 2024 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until November 1, 2024. CAOT reserves the right to modify the offering, interrupt Workshops, change the timing of a Workshop, cancel a Workshop or change the technology for the Workshop due to the presenter no longer being able to present the Workshop, severe weather, power failure, building closures or other special circumstances that are beyond the control of CAOT by notifying participants as soon as possible. If the Workshop is cancelled by CAOT, registrants will receive a full refund of the registration fee. CAOT will not be responsible for other costs or expenses incurred by registrants as a result of any such changes.

  Professional Development FAQs

  Provide suggestions for Professional Development


The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) is committed to accessibility as expressed in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). We provide an electronic copy of the handouts approximately one week ahead of time in multiple slide layouts, auto-generated closed captioning through Zoom (excluding breakout rooms), as well as access to the recording for two weeks following the workshop. If you require additional special arrangements for accessibility, please contact education@caot.ca or 1-800-434-2268.  

Please note that workshop is offered in English.

Online workshop

Thursday, November 7, 2024

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

What time is this for me?

Many persons with dementia express responsive behaviours, which “refer to behaviours exhibited by a person with dementia as a way of responding to something negative, frustrating or confusing in their environment” (Alzheimer Society of Canada, 2017) and these behaviours have a negative impact on the person with dementia and their care partners (e.g., Marx et al., 2019). The Triadic Model (Gitlin & Corcoran, 2005) highlights that people with dementia may be triggered by their care partner, their environment, or within themselves and that this may result in behaviours such as agitation, aggression, or wandering. Many people with dementia also experience toileting difficulties, which are also caused by factors related to the person with dementia, their environment, or their care partners (Murphy et al., 2021). Using a holistic approach, occupational therapists can suggest strategies to minimize responsive behaviours and toileting difficulties. Occupational therapists can also provide education to care partners on how to identify appropriate activities and how to modify them based on the context and the person with dementia’s abilities, and this increased participation in meaningful activities can reduce responsive behaviours (Marx et al., 2019).

This workshop will provide occupational therapists with a greater understanding why people with dementia experience responsive behaviours, toileting difficulties, and decreased participation in activity, and how to facilitate positive behaviours and activity participation. Several models for understanding the causes and triggers of responsive behaviours will be explored. Participants will learn how to develop and tailor strategies needed to minimize responsive behaviours and manage toileting difficulties based on the unique needs of the individual, care partner, and environment. Strategies to promote activity participation through task and environmental adaptations and communication strategies will be explored. Common barriers to strategy implementation will also be discussed. Small group discussions will be utilized throughout the workshop to assist participants in applying the information to various practice settings.

Workshop topics

Learning objectives

By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:

1. Apply models of dementia care to determine causes and triggers of responsive behaviours and dementia-related toileting challenges.
2. Identify triggers to guide clinical decision making.
3. Formulate strategies for managing responsive behaviours and toileting challenges based on activity participation.
4. Formulate strategies for managing responsive behaviours and toileting challenges based on environmental modification.
5. Formulate strategies for managing responsive behaviours and toileting challenges based on communication strategies.
6. Formulate strategies for managing responsive behaviours and toileting challenges based on task adaptation.
7. Tailor strategies to address the unique needs of the person with dementia, their care partner, and the environment.

Target audience

Occupational therapists who wish to further their knowledge and skills when working with people with dementia and their care partners in the community, on family health teams, in long-term care, or in the hospital. Participants are expected to have a basic understanding of dementia and disease process.

Please note: Each participant is responsible to ensure they apply the information within the context of their licensure, provincial/territorial legislations, institution regulations, scope of practice, etc.

Areas of practice

Caregiver/Family Education, Dementia, Older Adults, Palliative/EOL Care, Primary Care

Client age group

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

Workshop level

Intermediate (3-5 years of experience in dementia care)

Presenter

Rachel Wiley, MS, OTR/L, CDP

Rachel Wiley is an occupational therapist and the founder and owner of Day By Day Home Therapy and the Dementia Collaborative LLC. Rachel is certified in Skills2Care® for caregivers of individuals with dementia, and she is a Certified Dementia Practitioner. Rachel is also a certified master trainer of Skills2Care® through Jefferson Elder Care and trains occupational therapists from around the country in the Skills2Care® program. She is also currently an advisory council member for Dementia Society of America. Previously, Rachel was an adjunct faculty member in the occupational therapy departments at Thomas Jefferson University and Temple University. She also worked as the occupational therapist and Dementia Service Coordinator for the Pew Charitable Trust Grant with Jefferson Elder Care. Rachel attended Penn State University for her Bachelor's in Rehabilitation and Human Services and minor in Psychology and attended Thomas Jefferson University for her Master's in Occupational Therapy. She previously served as the Gerontology Chair for the Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association's (POTA) District V Board and was the recipient of the "OT Award of Recognition" for "Innovator in Specialized Dementia Care" from POTA in 2019. Rachel has been working with individuals with dementia for over 10 years.

Registration fees

Early bird rates: Registration and payment completed by September 11, 2024

Regular rates: Registration and payment completed after September 11, 2024

Registration deadline: November 7, 2024 at 9:59 a.m. (Eastern Time)

Please note that CAOT does not offer group registration fees. Pending sufficient space, CAOT offers late registration for workshops at the regular rate plus a $50 administration fee.  *It may be more cost effective to become a CAOT Member or Associate rather than pay the non-member rate. See “Can a non-member register for a Workshop?” in our Professional Development FAQs to know which membership category you are eligible for.  

Included in your registration fee:

Online workshop, access to the recording for a period of 14 days following the workshop, electronic copy of presentation slide handouts, opportunity to network and make connections with other occupational therapists interested in this topic, electronic certificate of attendance.

Cancellation/refund policy

All cancellation/refund requests must be sent in writing to  education@caot.ca. All cancellation requests received by October 23, 2024 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. No refunds will be given after October 23, 2024. Substitutions and transfers requests received by October 23, 2024 are permitted and are subject to a $50.00 administrative fee.

If you are exceptionally unable to complete the workshop, please reach out to  education@caot.ca by 25 days following the end of the workshop for extended access to the recording (up to one month after the end of the workshop) or a one-time transfer to another offering of the same workshop if currently open for registration.

CAOT reserves the right to modify the workshop title, description, registration dates and information on the workshop webpage. CAOT will notify participants on or before September 27, 2024 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until October 11, 2024. CAOT reserves the right to modify the offering, interrupt Workshops, change the timing of a Workshop, cancel a Workshop or change the technology for the Workshop due to the presenter no longer being able to present the Workshop, severe weather, power failure, building closures or other special circumstances that are beyond the control of CAOT by notifying participants as soon as possible. If the Workshop is cancelled by CAOT, registrants will receive a full refund of the registration fee. CAOT will not be responsible for other costs or expenses incurred by registrants as a result of any such changes.

  Professional Development FAQs

  Provide suggestions for Professional Development


The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) is committed to accessibility as expressed in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). We provide an electronic copy of the handouts approximately one week ahead of time in multiple slide layouts, auto-generated closed captioning through Zoom (excluding breakout rooms), as well as access to the recording for two weeks following the workshop. If you require additional special arrangements for accessibility, please contact education@caot.ca or 1-800-434-2268.    

Please note that workshop is offered in English.

September 27 to October 10, 2024 (on your own)
Fridays: October 11 & 18, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

What time is this for me?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects around 3-5% of the population in adults (Barkley, 2018). There are many supports and resources for children and adolescents, but very little for adults with ADHD. Adults are often missed or misdiagnosed until being accurately diagnosed in adulthood (e.g., Poulton, 2021). Awareness of ADHD has also been increasing on social media, which may be prompting adults to seek diagnosis and help. Adults with ADHD may experience occupational participation barriers in post-secondary school, workplaces, social interactions, driving, financial management, and household management. Occupational participation barriers can be significant when adults with ADHD fulfill their roles in neurotypical contexts. Thus, neurodiverse-affirming approaches that foster contextual changes to highlight their strengths and interests, while providing support for their differences, can improve occupational participation with self-acceptance and inclusivity. Occupational therapists are well-positioned to support adults with ADHD by advocating for social and occupational justice, evolving towards neurodiverse approaches, and providing support strategies to facilitate occupational participation.

This beginner-level online workshop is ideal for occupational therapists who wish to gain foundational knowledge in adult ADHD, neurodiversity, assessment strategies, and support skills to facilitate the occupational participation of adults with ADHD. You will learn the the limitations in the diagnostic process of ADHD in the DSM-5-TR (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2022), occupational participation challenges, neurodiversity-affirming practice, assessment strategies and tools, support strategies, contextual strategies, and promoting self-advocacy.

Workshop topics

This workshop will focus on building foundational knowledge on the nature of adult ADHD, neurodiversity-affirming practice, occupational and social justice and inclusion, assessment strategies, and beginner-level therapy support strategies (behavioural and contextual). The following topics will be reviewed:

1. The nature of ADHD in adults: Overview of diagnostic process to understand how clients can be misdiagnosed or how occupational therapists can aid in diagnosis for clients presenting with ADHD-like characteristics, limitations of the DSM-5-TR, co-occurring conditions, and theory and models explaining ADHD.
2. Neurodiversity-affirming practice: Definition of neurodiversity, principles of neurodiversity (intersectionality, autonomy, validating differences, reframing expectations), and exploring neuronormativity.
3. Occupational and social justice and inclusion: Discussion on identifying and advocating for societal change to include adults with ADHD.
4. Assessment strategies: Interviews, questionnaires, and performance-based assessments (e.g., Weekly Calendar Planning Activity, observation).
5. Beginner therapy support strategies: Behavioural strategies include skills and tools to facilitate executive functioning, such as dopamenu, organizational strategies, time management, routine/structure, and sensory management. Contextual strategies include workplace and school accommodations, changing the environment, as well as self-advocacy.

Preliminary workshop agenda

Pre-recorded webinar: September 27 to October 10, 2024

Day 1: October 11,2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

Day 2:  October 18, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

Learning objectives

By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:

1. Understand the limitations of the DSM-5-TR (APA, 2022) in the diagnostic process of ADHD in adults and how they relate to occupational therapy practice.
2. Describe the clinical presentation of adults with ADHD, including their common occupational challenges, strengths, and associated co-conditions.
3. Understand neurodiversity-affirming principles and how they apply to occupational therapy practice, occupational justice, and inclusion.
4. Select assessment strategies to identify occupational participation barriers for adults with ADHD.
5. Provide behavioural and contextual beginner therapy support strategies for adults with ADHD.

Target audience

Occupational therapist clinicians, occupational therapist educators, and occupational therapist researchers who wish to gain foundational knowledge in adult ADHD and neurodiversity, assessment strategies, and beginner therapy support skills to facilitate the occupational participation of adults with ADHD. Social workers, psychotherapists, psychologists, and case managers are also welcome to attend.

Please note: Each participant is responsible to ensure they apply the information within the context of their licensure, provincial/territorial legislations, institution regulations, scope of practice, etc.

Client age group 

Adults (20-64 years old)

Areas of practice 

Autism/Neurodiversity, Cognition, Mental Health

Workshop level 

Beginner (0-2 years of experience in cognitive rehabilitation)

Language 

English

Presenters

Adam Ly, OT Reg. (Ont.)  

Adam Ly has been practicing as a Registered Occupational Therapist since 2016. He completed his Bachelor of Health Science and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Degree at Western University. He works at an outpatient clinic assessing and treating clients from car accidents, workplace injuries, long-term disability, and privately paying clients. He works alongside physiotherapists, kinesiologists, and psychotherapists. His practice focuses on concussions, mental health, chronic pain, and cognitive rehabilitation. He primarily sees the following conditions: ADHD, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, brain injuries, PTSD, and adjustment disorder. He is also a seasonal lecturer at Western University teaching cognitive rehabilitation, as well as a co-instructor for various workshops at the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists. He has co-presented at numerous conferences and workshops on adult ADHD including the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD). He also has co-published articles in the Canadian Journal of Physician Leadership (CJPL), Attention Magazine, and Occupational Therapy Now.

Dr. Maryna Mammoliti, MD, FRCPC

Dr. Maryna Mammoliti (she/her) is a psychiatrist who splits her time between London and Toronto, Canada, practicing comprehensive psychiatry with focus on psychotherapy, physician health, ADHD, developmental trauma and PTSD, as well as ER psychiatry at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). She has completed her medical school training at University of Ottawa, Canada, followed by her 5-year Psychiatry residency at Western University in London, Ontario. She was a former Psychiatry Section Chair at Ontario Medical Association (OMA). She currently holds an Adjunct Professor position at Western University (London, Ontario) supervising residents and medical students for their psychiatry rotations. She has provided talks on physician health over the years and focuses her practice on diagnosing and advocating for patients with ADHD (especially adults), developmental trauma, adult attachment and eating disorders as well as therapy and a comprehensive approach to each patient. She has co-presented on adult ADHD at the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD). She also has two co-published articles in the Canadian Journal of Physician Leadership (CJPL), one of which addresses ADHD in physicians.  

Registration fees

Early bird rates: Registration and payment completed by July 31, 2024

Regular rates: Registration and payment completed after July 31, 2024

Registration deadline: October 11, 2024 at 9:59 a.m. (Eastern Time)

Please note that CAOT does not offer group registration fees. 

*It may be more cost effective to become a CAOT Member or Associate rather than pay the non-member rate. See “Can a non-member register for a Workshop?” in our Professional Development FAQs to know which membership category you are eligible for.

Included in your registration fee:

Online workshop, access to the recording for a period of 14 days following the workshop, electronic copy of presentation slide handouts, opportunity to network and make connections with other occupational therapists interested in this topic, electronic certificate of attendance.

Cancellation/refund policy

All cancellation/refund requests must be sent in writing to education@caot.ca. All cancellation requests received by September 18, 2024 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. No refunds will be given after September 18, 2024. Substitutions and transfers requests received by September 25, 2024 are permitted and are subject to a $50.00 administrative fee.

If you are exceptionally unable to complete the workshop, please reach out to education@caot.ca by 25 days following the end of the workshop for extended access to the recording (up to one month after the end of the workshop) or a one-time transfer to another offering of the same workshop if currently open for registration.  CAOT reserves the right to modify the workshop title, description, registration dates and information on the workshop webpage. CAOT will notify participants on or before August 16, 2024 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until August 30, 2024. CAOT reserves the right to modify the offering, interrupt Workshops, change the timing of a Workshop, cancel a Workshop or change the technology for the Workshop due to the presenter no longer being able to present the Workshop, severe weather, power failure, building closures or other special circumstances that are beyond the control of CAOT by notifying participants as soon as possible. If the Workshop is cancelled by CAOT, registrants will receive a full refund of the registration fee. CAOT will not be responsible for other costs or expenses incurred by registrants as a result of any such changes.

  Professional Development FAQs

  Provide suggestions for Professional Development


The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) is committed to accessibility as expressed in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). We provide an electronic copy of the handouts approximately one week ahead of time in multiple slide layouts, auto-generated closed captioning through Zoom (excluding breakout rooms), as well as access to the recording for two weeks following the workshop. If you require additional special arrangements for accessibility, please contact education@caot.ca or 1-800-434-2268.    

Please note that workshop is offered in English.

Friday, September 27, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

What time is this for me?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental illness characterized by the presence of unwanted obsessions and compulsions (American Psychiatric Association, 2022). It is a chronic condition which can be complex and severely disabling. At one point, OCD was rated the 10th most disabling illness in the world by loss income and decreased quality life (World Health Organization, 1999). Although newer research has improved therapy for OCD, access to evidence-based assessment and therapy can still be challenging. In Canada, it is estimated that OCD affects 1-2% of the population, with many experiencing significant symptoms before 25 years of age (CMHA, 2013). Consequently, OCD can have a significant negative impact on individuals' participation across all areas of occupation. Occupational therapists are uniquely positioned to effectively address these occupational challenges by using an occupational lens to assess clients' challenges and co-create values-based therapy goals. By collaboratively focusing on clients' valued occupations in meaningful contexts, clients are more likely to be motivated to actively engage and participate in therapy.

 This workshop is ideal for occupational therapists who wish to increase their understanding of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as well as enhance their skills in assessment and exposure response therapy using an occupational lens. The workshop will begin with an overview of OCD, the OCD cycle, and specific occupational therapy assessments for people living with OCD. Current evidence-based approaches to support people living with OCD will be reviewed and application of these approaches using occupational models will be discussed. Specifically, the process of collaborating with clients to design and deliver values-based exposure and response prevention (ERP) in various settings including the client's home and the community. The presenters will also discuss the importance of involving clients' family members or loved ones in therapy for OCD and how best to involve them in the therapy process. All of the above concepts will culminate in small group discussions and role play in the second half of the workshop, to allow participants to observe and practice their new knowledge and skills.

Preliminary workshop agenda

Learning objectives

By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:

1. Understand components of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and develop a behavioural conceptualization of OCD.
2. Identify and apply appropriate occupational models during the assessment process and developing a therapy plan with people living with OCD.
3. Explain what exposure and response prevention (ERP) is and how it works.
4. State guidelines and principles to deliver ERP effectively.
5. Identify the role of family members or loved ones in the therapy of OCD.

Target audience

Occupational therapist clinicians and educators who want to increase their knowledge and skills in evidence-based assessment and therapy with an occupational lens for people living with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Students in occupational therapy programs are also welcome to participate.

Please note: Each participant is responsible to ensure they apply the information within the context of their licensure, provincial/territorial legislations, institution regulations, scope of practice, etc.

Client age group

Adolescents (13-19 years old), Adults (20-64 years old)

Areas of practice

Autism/Neurodiversity, Case Management, Mental Health, Psychotherapy, Return to Work

Workshop level

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

Please note: Participants with more or less than this stated level of experience are welcome to attend the workshop. The workshop content will be geared towards those with 3-5 years of experience.

Presenter

Aliza Ladak, OT Reg. (Ont.)

Aliza is an occupational therapist with a passion to help people reclaim their lives from OCD and anxiety disorders. She has 11 years of mental health experience in public and private settings. At Sunnybrook’s Frederick Thompson Centre, Aliza delivered high quality OCD treatment in their outpatient services and was the first OT in Canada’s residential treatment program for severe OCD. She is currently pioneering the development of their aftercare program and continues to contribute to educational initiatives and disseminates OCD knowledge to build capacity in community clinicians. Aliza delivers cutting-edge exposure and response prevention therapy through a practical and functional lens to help her clients get unstuck from OCD’s endless loops, pursue their goals, and lead fulfilling lives.

Nathania Lukman, OT Reg. (Ont.), Psychotherapist

Nathania Lukman is an occupational therapist practicing in mental health. She is a clinician at the Thompson Anxiety Disorders Centre at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre working in their Intensive OCD Treatment Program as the occupational therapist and interim team lead (currently on maternity leave). As part of her role, she oversaw the day-to-day operations of the intensive program, developed and delivered individual ERP treatment plans, and facilitated various groups within the program. Outside of the Thompson Centre, Nathania operates Valued Living Therapy Services, a private practice where she provides virtual and in-home/in-community occupational therapy and psychotherapy services. In her clinical practice, Nathania utilizes a variety of evidence-based treatments including CBT/ERP and Inference-based CBT for OCD, ACT, CFT and Motivational Interviewing. Nathania has a special interest and passion in working with neurodiverse individuals and the perinatal population.

Registration fees

Early bird rates: Registration and payment completed by July 31, 2024

Regular rates: Registration and payment completed after July 31, 2024

Registration deadline: September 27, 2024 at 9:59 a.m. (Eastern Time)

Please note that CAOT does not offer group registration fees.  Pending sufficient space, CAOT offers late registration for workshops at the regular rate plus a $50 administration fee until 11:59 p.m. (Pacific time) two days prior to the workshop start date to ensure registrants receive access to the workshop login details and materials in the reminder email.

*It may be more cost effective to become a CAOT Member or Associate rather than pay the non-member rate. See “Can a non-member register for a Workshop?” in our Professional Development FAQs to know which membership category you are eligible for. 

Included in your registration fee:

Online workshop, access to the recording for a period of 14 days following the workshop, electronic copy of presentation slide handouts, opportunity to network and make connections with other occupational therapists interested in this topic, electronic certificate of attendance.

Cancellation/refund policy

All cancellation/refund requests must be sent in writing to education@caot.ca. All cancellation requests received by September 18, 2024 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. No refunds will be given after September 18, 2024. Substitutions and transfers requests received by September 25, 2024 are permitted and are subject to a $50.00 administrative fee.

If you are exceptionally unable to complete the workshop, please reach out to education@caot.ca by 25 days following the end of the workshop for extended access to the recording (up to one month after the end of the workshop) or a one-time transfer to another offering of the same workshop if currently open for registration.  CAOT reserves the right to modify the workshop title, description, registration dates and information on the workshop webpage. CAOT will notify participants on or before August 16, 2024 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until August 30, 2024. CAOT reserves the right to modify the offering, interrupt Workshops, change the timing of a Workshop, cancel a Workshop or change the technology for the Workshop due to the presenter no longer being able to present the Workshop, severe weather, power failure, building closures or other special circumstances that are beyond the control of CAOT by notifying participants as soon as possible. If the Workshop is cancelled by CAOT, registrants will receive a full refund of the registration fee. CAOT will not be responsible for other costs or expenses incurred by registrants as a result of any such changes.

  Provide suggestions for Professional Development


The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) is committed to accessibility as expressed in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). We provide an electronic copy of the handouts approximately one week ahead of time in multiple slide layouts, auto-generated closed captioning through Zoom (excluding breakout rooms), as well as access to the recording for two weeks following the workshop. If you require additional special arrangements for accessibility, please contact education@caot.ca or 1-800-434-2268.  

Please note that workshop is offered in English.

Thursday, September 26, 2024

11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

What time is this for me?

Burnout has been a hot topic during the COVID-19 pandemic, but it didn't start there (e.g., Murthy, 2022). Health care workers have been placed in health systems that value quantity over quality and are increasingly being asked to work beyond their physical and emotional limits to provide services for clients at a high volume, with pressure from management and billing targets (e.g., Koinis et al., 2015).  

This one-day interactive workshop will focus on building a strong foundation for how to assist with healing work-related burnout and how to foster work/life balance using occupational therapy intervention and skills. Participants will learn about the nervous system, the occupational and functional life impacts of burnout, and the aftermath of providing care during the COVID-19 pandemic on health care professionals. Participants will explore burnout in acute, outpatient and private practice settings and evaluate the impact of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and self-efficacy on return to work. The unique position of occupational therapists in assisting with burnout prevention, management and recovery will be discussed. Opportunities will be provided to network and to practice skills in small groups throughout the workshop. Journaling throughout this workshop is encouraged and a template will be provided. There will also be several stretch and movement breaks throughout the day.

Preliminary workshop agenda

Learning objectives

By the end of this workshop, you will:

1. Gain an in-depth understanding of the nervous system's response to stress.
2. Be able to identify symptoms of burnout in yourself and your clients.
3. Understand the occupational therapy role in burnout management/recovery.
4. Apply occupational therapy practice skills to burnout recovery.
5. Gain confidence in your ability to identify and manage work-related burnout.

Target audience

Occupational therapy clinicians and students in occupational therapy programs who wish to be able to identify symptoms of burnout and to develop a plan to prevent or manage burnout, for themselves and for their clients.

Please note: Each participant is responsible to ensure they apply the information within the context of their licensure, provincial/territorial legislations, institution regulations, scope of practice, etc.

Client age group

Adults (20-64 years old)

Areas of practice

Acute Care, Chronic Disease Management, Chronic Pain, Forensic Mental Health, Health Promotion & Wellness, Intensive Critical Care Unit (ICU)/ Emergency Department (ED), Medical-Legal Services, Mental Health, MVA Rehabilitation, Neurology, Palliative/EOL Care, Parental Health, Primary Care, Return to Work, Role-Emerging, Substance Use/Addictions, Women’s Health

Workshop level

Beginner (0-2 years of experience in this specific practice area)   Please note: Participants with more than this stated level of experience are welcome to attend the workshop. The workshop content will be geared towards those with 0-2 years of experience

Presenter

Kat Dikeakos, Reg. OT (BC) 

Kat Dikeakos is a Vancouver-based occupational therapist and provides therapy to clients via telehealth across Canada. Her practice is focused on supporting high-functioning clients to recover from accidents, illness, and burnout. Many of her clients work in health care, management, entertainment, or other high-pressure fields. A holistic health nerd from the very beginning, Kat has a special interest in recovery from complex health conditions and uses an integrative medicine approach to foster healing from the inside out. Her practice includes advanced training in chronic pain management, concussion, rheumatology, and perinatal health. Kat also has a special interest in women’s health and the unique challenges that come alongside pregnancy, parenting, pelvic pain and menopause. Skilled in the understanding of how the body and brain function together, Kat works to educate her clients and help them to develop the skills to manage their health while restoring work life balance and quality of life. In addition, Kat spends time as a mentor for PainBC's British Columbia Adaptive Mentorship Network (BCAMN), chairing the CAOT Chronic Pain & Occupational Therapy Practice Network and sitting on the CAOT-BC Advisory Committee for Chronic Pain, Mental Health and Substance Use.

Registration fees

Early bird rates: Registration and payment completed by July 17, 2024 

Regular rates: Registration and payment completed between July 18 and September 11, 2024

Registration deadline: September 11, 2024

Please note that CAOT does not offer group registration fees. Pending sufficient space, CAOT offers late registration for workshops at the regular rate plus a $50 administration fee.  

*It may be more cost effective to become a CAOT Member or Associate rather than pay the non-member rate. See “Can a non-member register for a Workshop?” in our Professional Development FAQs to know which membership category you are eligible for.  

Included in your registration fee:

Online workshop, access to the recording for a period of 14 days following the workshop, electronic copy of presentation slide handouts, opportunity to network and make connections with other occupational therapists interested in this topic, electronic certificate of attendance.

Cancellation/refund policy

All cancellation/refund requests must be sent in writing to education@caot.ca. All cancellation requests received by September 11, 2024 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. All cancellation/refund requests between September 12 and 18, 2024 will be given a 50% refund. No refunds will be given after September 18, 2024. Substitutions and transfers requests received by September 18, 2024 are permitted and are subject to a $50.00 administrative fee.

If you are exceptionally unable to complete the workshop, please reach out to education@caot.ca by 25 days following the end of the workshop for extended access to the recording (up to one month after the end of the workshop) or a one-time transfer to another offering of the same workshop if currently open for registration.  CAOT reserves the right to modify the workshop title, description, registration dates and information on the workshop webpage. CAOT will notify participants on or before August 16, 2024 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until August 30, 2024. CAOT reserves the right to modify the offering, interrupt Workshops, change the timing of a Workshop, cancel a Workshop or change the technology for the Workshop due to the presenter no longer being able to present the Workshop, severe weather, power failure, building closures or other special circumstances that are beyond the control of CAOT by notifying participants as soon as possible. If the Workshop is cancelled by CAOT, registrants will receive a full refund of the registration fee. CAOT will not be responsible for other costs or expenses incurred by registrants as a result of any such changes.

  Professional Development FAQs

  Provide suggestions for Professional Development


The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) is committed to accessibility as expressed in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). We provide an electronic copy of the handouts approximately one week ahead of time in multiple slide layouts, auto-generated closed captioning through Zoom (excluding breakout rooms), as well as access to the recording for two weeks following the workshop. If you require additional special arrangements for accessibility, please contact education@caot.ca or 1-800-434-2268.    

Please note that workshop is offered in English.

September 12-18, 2024 (on your own) 

September 19 & 20, 2024 from 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. (ET)

What time is this for me?

Seating for older adults is critical to prevent injury and enhance function. A MAT assessment allows therapists to understand the older adult’s postural tendencies and to build a prescription that will correct and prevent asymmetrical tendencies, improve comfort and, when possible, enhance the mobility of the client. By understanding the physics of seating and mobility, occupational therapists can prescribe appropriate seating and mobility systems for older adults that facilitate autonomy, safety, restraint reduction, independence, and participation in meaningful occupations.  …not despite, but because of their age!

This online workshop will explore how seated posture affects pain and the overall capacity of older adults to participate more fully and more comfortably in meaningful occupations.  A prerecorded lecture of a MAT assessment will provide participants an overview of how to complete a MAT assessment and how to recognize asymmetrical postural tendencies. During the synchronous workshop, the presenter will build on this lecture to help participants understand postural tendencies, three-point positioning, and postural/product simulation.  The presenter will review how posterior pelvic and posterior lateral rib cage support assist with thoracic extension for improved posture, breathing, and eating. Participants will be guided through body mechanics and pain/pressure points to understand how seating can make a difference in comfort, pain reduction, and head position to enhance swallowing.  Pain references, body shape, muscle tone, asymmetries, and skin integrity will be addressed. Participants will understand and ultimately be able to suggest appropriate propulsion styles (two-hand, two-feet, one-hand/one-foot) theories in their own clinic settings.  The impact of wheelchair set up on sliding and restraint use will also be reviewed. Participants will have a chance to utilize the information shared to address client case studies throughout the workshop.

Preliminary workshop agenda

Pre-recorded lecture: September 12 - 18, 2024 (on your own)

Day 1: September 19, 2024, from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

Day 2: September 20, 2024, from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

Learning objectives

By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:

1. Be able to do a MAT assessment in your own clinical setting.
2. Understand how postural tendencies affect breathing, swallowing, head position and bowel evacuation.
3. Understand postural tendencies in older adults.
4. Conceptualize how to enhance comfort sitting.
5. Be able to demonstrate three-point positioning and forces related to seated posture.
6. Understand the use of secondary supports and tilt.
7. Understand the physics of hand propulsion in older adults.
8. Be able to identify the three methods of foot propulsion in older adults.
9. Be able to review restraint policies and how seating is affected by these policies in order to gain restraint-free positioning.

Target audience

Occupational therapist clinicians, occupational therapist assistants (OTAs), students in occupational therapy programs and physiotherapists who wish to develop their skills in optimal seating and mobility to facilitate the occupational participation of older adults.

Please note: Participants who previously attended the workshop “Seated posture, pain reduction, and mobility for older adults: Stop the migration!” will find that the content has been updated with additional case studies to allow participants to apply the information learned to case studies. Each participant is responsible to ensure they apply the information within the context of their licensure, provincial/territorial legislations, institution regulations, scope of practice, etc

Client age group

Older adults (65+ years old)

Areas of practice

Acute Care, Assistive Technology, Brain Injury/Concussion/Spinal Cord, Cardio-Respiratory Care, Chronic Disease Management, Chronic Pain, Dysphagia & Digestive Disorders, Equipment Assessments, Generalist, MSK Rehabilitation, MVA Rehabilitation, Neurology, Older Adults, Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)

Workshop level

Beginner (0-2 years of experience in this area of practice)

Please note: Participants with more than this stated level of experience are welcome to attend the workshop. The workshop content will be geared towards those with 0-2 years of experience in this area of practice.

Presenter

Sheila Buck, OT Reg. (Ont.)

Sheila is an occupational therapist and the owner of a seating and mobility consulting company, Therapy NOW, in Ontario, Canada. Sheila has spoken extensively in North America, Ireland, Norway and New Zealand on seating and mobility concepts for the very young to the very old. Her audiences have included, but are not limited to, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, nurses, doctors, case managers, DME (Durable Medical Equipment) vendors and manufacturers of seating and mobility products.  Her extensive knowledge related to the provision of assistive technology for mobility is reflected in her book More than 4 wheels:  Applying clinical practice to seating, mobility and assistive technology, 3rd edition. This excellent clinical guide is currently being used as a learning tool around the world with over 1200 copies sold. Sheila is also a contributing author in the recently published Seating and Wheeled Mobility: A Clinical Resource Guide. Sheila is known for her dynamic sessions which are enhanced by demonstrations of practical suggestions, as well as her compassion for clients and advancing her learning and skills to those with whom she works. 

Registration fees

Early bird rates: Registration and payment completed by June 5, 2024

Regular rates: Registration and payment completed after June 5, 2024

Registration deadline: September 19, 2024 at 11:59 a.m. (Eastern Time)

Please note that CAOT does not offer group registration fees.

*It may be more cost effective to become a CAOT Member or Associate rather than pay the non-member rate. See “Can a non-member register for a Workshop?” in our Professional Development FAQs to know which membership category you are eligible for.Included in your registration fee:

Online workshop, access to the recording for a period of 14 days following the workshop, electronic copy of presentation slide handouts, opportunity to network and make connections with other occupational therapists interested in this topic, electronic certificate of attendance

Cancellation/refund policy

All cancellation/refund requests must be sent in writing to education@caot.ca. All cancellation requests received by August 28, 2024 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. All cancellation/refund requests between August 29 and September 4, 2024 will be given a 50% refund. No refunds will be given after September 4, 2024. Substitutions and transfers requests received by September 4, 2024 are permitted and are subject to a $50.00 administrative fee.

If you are exceptionally unable to complete the workshop, please reach out to education@caot.ca by 25 days following the end of the workshop for extended access to the recording (up to one month after the end of the workshop) or a one-time transfer to another offering of the  workshop if currently open for registration.  CAOT reserves the right to modify the workshop title, description, registration dates and information on the workshop webpage. CAOT will notify participants on or before August 2, 2024 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until August 16, 2024. CAOT reserves the right to modify the offering, interrupt Workshops, change the timing of a Workshop, cancel a Workshop or change the technology for the Workshop due to the presenter no longer being able to present the Workshop, severe weather, power failure, building closures or other special circumstances that are beyond the control of CAOT by notifying participants as soon as possible. If the Workshop is cancelled by CAOT, registrants will receive a full refund of the registration fee. CAOT will not be responsible for other costs or expenses incurred by registrants as a result of any such changes.

  Professional Development FAQs

  Provide suggestions for Professional Development

Please note that workshop is offered in English.

The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) is committed to accessibility as expressed in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). We provide an electronic copy of the handouts approximately one week ahead of time in multiple slide layouts, auto-generated closed captioning through Zoom (excluding breakout rooms), as well as access to the recording for two weeks following the workshop. If you require additional special arrangements for accessibility, please contact education@caot.ca or 1-800-434-2268.

Thursday, September 19 & Friday, September 20, 2024

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

What time is this for me?

Occupational therapists need to be knowledgeable of emerging trends in the field of neurodevelopmental disabilities and feel confident with implementing strengths-based and neurodiversity-affirming best practices when working with neurodivergent people and their families.

This two-day interactive workshop explores the presenter’s BEST (Body, Emotional, Sensory and Thinking) evidence-based interventions framework to co-create therapy plans with neurodivergent individuals that promote occupational participation. These occupations will be explored in depth through a combination of teaching, video presentations, demonstrations, ongoing interactions with workshop participants, case studies and/or small group work that will explore the lived experiences of neurodivergent children, youth and adults who present with sensory processing differences* (including, but not limited to autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder as well as anxiety and other mental health conditions). 

There will be a strong focus on the use of strengths-based and neurodiversity-affirming approaches throughout this workshop.  The following occupations will be addressed to best promote the occupational participation of neurodivergent children, youth and adults: eating, sleep, personal hygiene, play, school, and leisure. Participants will have a chance to consider systemic and individual barriers to occupational participation for neurodivergent individuals, and will discuss how to address these barriers.  

*Please note that the presenter’s clinical experience is primarily with persons on the autism spectrum and that the case studies/videos used will focus on autism and co-occurring conditions).

Preliminary workshop agenda

Day 1, Thursday, September 19, 2024

Day 2, Friday, September 20, 2024

Learning objectives

By the end of this workshop, you will have had the opportunity to consider and practice:

1. Explain why occupational therapists need to practice using strengths-based, trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming evidence-based approaches by addressing, supporting and advocating for inclusion and identity across the lifespan.
2. Utilize the presenter’s BEST (Body, Emotional, Sensory and Thinking) strategies framework to support neurodivergent children, adolescents and adults in engaging and participating in eating, sleep and personal hygiene occupations.
3. Utilize the presenter’s BEST strategies framework to support neurodivergent children and adolescents in engaging and participating in meaningful play and school occupations.
4. Utilize the presenter’s BEST strategies framework to support neurodivergent children, adolescents and adults in engaging and participating in meaningful leisure occupations

Target audience

Occupational therapists, occupational therapist assistants and other health professionals who work with neurodivergent children, youth and adults who present with sensory processing differences* (including, but not limited to autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder as well as anxiety and other mental health conditions).

This workshop builds on the content discussed in the workshop “A comprehensive introduction to sensory processing and autism: Towards the development of a strengths-based and neurodiversity-affirming occupational therapy practice” also presented by Moira Peña. Participants of this workshop are expected to be familiar with the core values of strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed approaches.

Please note: Each participant is responsible to ensure they apply the information within the context of their licensure, provincial/territorial legislations, institution regulations, scope of practice, etc.

Client age group

Young children (0-4 years old), Children (5-12 years old), Adolescents (13-19 years old), Adults (20-64 years old)

Areas of practice

Cognitive, Mental health

Workshop level

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

Please note: Participants with more or less than this stated level of experience are welcome to attend the workshop. The workshop content will be geared towards those with previous knowledge and experience in neurodiversity-affirming practice.

Presenter

Moira Peña, BScOT, MOT, OT Reg. (Ont.)

Moira Peña is an occupational therapist who is passionate about equipping occupational therapy practitioners and other health care and education professionals with neurodiversity-affirming and strengths-based practice knowledge & skills that best support autistic people. Moira is the owner of Moira Peña Sensory Workshops and also works at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto, Ontario with children and youth on the autism spectrum.  Moira is an Expert Hub Team member of the ECHO Ontario Autism Program which aims to further develop paediatricians’, school psychologists’, teachers’ & allied health professionals’ skills to screen, diagnose (if applicable) and best address the needs of autistic children and their families.

Moira holds credentials from the STAR (Sensory Therapies and Research) Institute for Sensory Processing and is a certified Solution-Focused Healthcare Facilitator & Coach (C-SFHCF). She is a published author and researcher in The Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders and is the creator & host of Holland Bloorview’s Autism Summit. Moira is also an Adjunct Lecturer in the Department of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy at the University of Toronto.

Registration fees

Early bird rates: Registration and payment completed by June 19, 2024

Regular rates: Registration and payment completed after June 19, 2024

Registration deadline: September 19, 2024 at 9:59 a.m. (Eastern Time)

Please note that CAOT does not offer group registration fees.

*It may be more cost effective to become a CAOT Member or Associate rather than pay the non-member rate. See “Can a non-member register for a Workshop?” in our Professional Development FAQs to know which membership category you are eligible for.

Included in your registration fee:

Online workshop, access to the recording for a period of 14 days following the workshop, electronic copy of presentation slide handouts, opportunity to network and make connections with other occupational therapists interested in this topic, electronic certificate of attendance.

Cancellation/refund policy

All cancellation/refund requests must be sent in writing to education@caot.ca. All cancellation requests received by September 4, 2024 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. All cancellation/refund requests between September 5 and 11, 2024 will be given a 50% refund. No refunds will be given after September 11, 2024. Substitutions and transfers requests received by September 11, 2024 are permitted and are subject to a $50.00 administrative fee.

If you are exceptionally unable to complete the workshop, please reach out to education@caot.ca by 25 days following the end of the workshop for extended access to the recording (up to one month after the end of the workshop) or a one-time transfer to another offering of the same workshop if currently open for registration.  CAOT reserves the right to modify the workshop title, description, registration dates and information on the workshop webpage. CAOT will notify participants on or before August 9, 2024 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until August 23, 2024. CAOT reserves the right to modify the offering, interrupt Workshops, change the timing of a Workshop, cancel a Workshop or change the technology for the Workshop due to the presenter no longer being able to present the Workshop, severe weather, power failure, building closures or other special circumstances that are beyond the control of CAOT by notifying participants as soon as possible. If the Workshop is cancelled by CAOT, registrants will receive a full refund of the registration fee. CAOT will not be responsible for other costs or expenses incurred by registrants as a result of any such changes.

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The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) is committed to accessibility as expressed in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). We provide an electronic copy of the handouts approximately one week ahead of time in multiple slide layouts, auto-generated closed captioning through Zoom (excluding breakout rooms), as well as access to the recording for two weeks following the workshop. If you require additional special arrangements for accessibility, please contact education@caot.ca or 1-800-434-2268.    

Please note that workshop is offered in English.

Thursday, September 12, 2024

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

What time is this for me?

Canadian occupational therapists are increasingly faced with the challenge of evaluating the functional cognitive impacts of concussion / TBI, mental health diagnoses, chronic pain, and other factors on an individual’s occupational participation. It is important for occupational therapists to have a solid understanding of functional cognition, what it encompasses, how it impacts an individual's capacity for employment, and how to assess and analyze the impact for the purposes of providing independent opinion and determining a therapy plan with the individual. Occupational therapists can utilize ecologically valid measures to assess the fit between the individual’s strengths and limitations and the specific job demands in their context.

A toolbox of measures that capture the functional cognitive limitations experienced by the individual that are also relevant to critical cognitive job demands is required to ensure an accurate and comprehensive assessment of this individual's abilities and limitations and the starting point for work-oriented rehabilitation.

The purpose of this workshop is to unpack the toolbox of measures to assess functional cognition and to familiarize occupational therapists with their utility to determine an individual’s strengths and challenges for employment. Workshop topics include:

  - Functional cognition: What is functional cognition? How do we assess an individual’s functional cognitive capacity?
  - Structured observations: How do we tailor the environmental parameters of the assessment and use structured observations to gather information on functional cognition?
  - Patient-related outcome measures (PROM): How do we consider an individual’s subjective reports regarding functional cognitive challenges?
  - Standardized measures: What standardized measures do we have available to measure functional cognition?
  - Work simulation: How do we utilize work simulation activities (generic and work-specific) to evaluate work-related functional cognition?

Please note that the focus of this workshop is on work-oriented assessment rather than work-oriented rehabilitation. This workshop will assist therapists in establishing a baseline of function and identifying where gaps for employment exist, assisting with formulation of targets for cognitive rehabilitation.

Preliminary workshop agenda

Learning objectives

By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:

1. Explain the concept of functional cognition within the occupational therapy scope of practice.
2. Utilize structured observations of functional cognition that will assist with formulation of opinion on abilities and limitations.
3. Select Patient-Related Outcome Measures (e.g., subjective reports) that will assist with formulation of opinion on abilities and limitations.
4. Select standardized measures (e.g., objective measures) that will assist with formulation on abilities and limitations.
5. Describe generic and work-specific work simulation activities that will assist with formulation on abilities and limitations.
6. Incorporate tests and measures to formulate an opinion on an individual's functional cognitive capacity and compare this with information on critical cognitive job demands.

Target audience

Occupational therapist clinicians who wish to further their knowledge and skills in the assessment of functional cognition for employment when working with adolescents and adults.

Please note: Each participant is responsible to ensure they apply the information within the context of their licensure, provincial/territorial legislations, institution regulations, scope of practice, etc.

Client age group

Adolescents (13-19 years old), Adults (20-64 years old)

Areas of practice

Brain injury/Concussion/Spinal Cord, Chronic Pain, Mental Health, Return to Work

Workshop level

Intermediate (3-5 years of experience) 

Please note: Participants with less than this stated level of experience are welcome to attend the workshop. The workshop content will be geared towards those with several years of experience in occupational therapy in their own area of practice.. 

Presenter

Tania L. M. Percy, B.A., B.Sc.OT, Reg. OT (BC)

Tania Percy has been working as a consultant occupational therapist with Progressive Rehab OrionHealth for approximately 20 years. Tania also worked in Ontario as a consultant occupational therapist for approximately 5 years. She has certification as a Work Capacity Evaluator (CWCE, 1998), is a Certified Cost of Future Care/Life Care Planner (Advanced, 2018), and has been accepted as an expert witness at the Supreme Court level as an occupational therapist providing expert opinion on functional capacity, work capacity and cost of future care. Tania is the clinical instructor for Cognitive Functional Capacity Evaluation and for the Cost of Future Care/Life Care Planning Certification Program with Matheson Education and Training Solutions.  Tania also provides education and clinical development in the areas of cost of future care, work capacity, brain and spinal cord injury, cognitive functional capacity evaluation and pain (CAOT, WorkSafe BC, RMA/METS).

Registration fees

Early bird rates: Registration and payment completed by June 5, 2023

Regular rates: Registration and payment completed after June 5, 2024

Registration deadline: September 12, 2024 at 9:59 a.m. (Eastern Time)

Please note that CAOT does not offer group registration fees.

*It may be more cost effective to become a CAOT Member or Associate rather than pay the non-member rate. See “Can a non-member register for a Workshop?” in our Professional Development FAQs to know which membership category you are eligible for.  

Included in your registration fee:

Online workshop, access to the recording for a period of 14 days following the workshop, electronic copy of presentation slide handouts, opportunity to network and make connections with other occupational therapists interested in this topic, electronic certificate of attendance.

Cancellation/refund policy

All cancellation/refund requests must be sent in writing to education@caot.ca. All cancellation requests received by August 28, 2024 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. All cancellation/refund requests between August 29 and September 4, 2024 will be given a 50% refund. No refunds will be given after September 4, 2024. Substitutions and transfers requests received by September 4, 2024 are permitted and are subject to a $50.00 administrative fee.

If you are exceptionally unable to complete the workshop, please reach out to education@caot.ca by 25 days following the end of the workshop for extended access to the recording (up to one month after the end of the workshop) or a one-time transfer to another offering of the  workshop if currently open for registration.  CAOT reserves the right to modify the workshop title, description, registration dates and information on the workshop webpage. CAOT will notify participants on or before August 2, 2024 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until August 16, 2024. CAOT reserves the right to modify the offering, interrupt Workshops, change the timing of a Workshop, cancel a Workshop or change the technology for the Workshop due to the presenter no longer being able to present the Workshop, severe weather, power failure, building closures or other special circumstances that are beyond the control of CAOT by notifying participants as soon as possible. If the Workshop is cancelled by CAOT, registrants will receive a full refund of the registration fee. CAOT will not be responsible for other costs or expenses incurred by registrants as a result of any such changes.

  Professional Development FAQs

  Provide suggestions for Professional Development


The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) is committed to accessibility as expressed in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). We provide an electronic copy of the handouts approximately one week ahead of time in multiple slide layouts, auto-generated closed captioning through Zoom (excluding breakout rooms), as well as access to the recording for two weeks following the workshop. If you require additional special arrangements for accessibility, please contact education@caot.ca or 1-800-434-2268.    

Please note that workshop is offered in English.