Thursday, September 18, 2025

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

What time is this for me?

Aging in place is defined as the extent to which older adults are able to age in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. Supporting Canada’s growing older adult population to age well, in reasonably good health, and to live independently requires a combination of health and social services (Iciaszczyk et al., 2023). Occupational therapists (OTs) have expertise in assessing and addressing the impact of the context on a person’s occupational participation (ACOTRO et al., 2021), including the fit between persons and the built environment (Ainsworth & de Jonge, 2018), as well as the need for personal care and other assistance. Given that the majority of current housing stock is inaccessible or unsafe for people living with physical and/or cognitive impairments (Choi, 2021; Reid, 2022; Statistics Canada, 2022), OTs are often asked to recommend home modifications, including assistive devices and structural adaptations. This requires an in-depth level of knowledge and training that OTs are unlikely to receive during their entry-level occupational therapy education (Meyer & Proganc, 2022).

This one-day workshop will build the competency of occupational therapists regarding what to assess and how, as well as how to overcome physical access barriers by matching home modification solutions to the needs of aging and older adults, and their care partners. This workshop will begin with an overview of how and where older Canadians typically live, the challenges they face both in terms of overcoming functional limitations and navigating the health care system, and the need for occupational therapy-based aging-in-place services. The presenter will then briefly touch on the collaborative role that occupational therapists (OTs) play relative to others involved in the home health and home modification industries (e.g., supplier-dealers, designers, contractors, builders, funders). Significantly more time and attention will be spent describing areas and methods of assessments, as well as residential design standards and guidelines for improved function, safety, and accessibility. This includes reviewing examples of home modification assessment tools, documentation, and report templates. Case scenarios and images of real-world projects will be used to explore best practices for age-inclusive, health promoting built environments. Small group discussions will be used throughout the workshop to assist participants in applying their knowledge to case scenarios.

Preliminary workshop agenda

Learning objectives

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

1. Define key terminology, including aging in place, home safety, home modifications, accessibility, and universal or inclusive design.
2. Understand the role of occupational therapists in facilitating aging in place via home modifications.
3. Identify methods and practices used during occupational therapy-based home modification assessments with older adults.
4. Describe home modification solutions to remove physical access barriers for aging and older adults.
5. Describe home modification solutions to promote occupational participation among older adults.
6. Respond to the individual and societal factors that influence the adoption of home modifications for aging in place.

Target audience

Occupational therapist clinicians with a minimum of 3-5 years of clinical experience working in the community with (older) adults. Late-career OTs who are planning ahead for their own aging journey 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), Older adults (65+ years old)

Areas of practice

Assistive Technology, Cognition, Dementia, Equipment Assessments, Home Assessment & Modification, Insurance Assessment, Medical-Legal Services, MSK Rehabilitation, MVA Rehabilitation, Older Adults, Role-Emerging, Universal & Inclusive Design, Veterans Affairs or Armed Forces

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

Margot McWhirter, MA, OT Reg. (Ont.)

Margot McWhirter is an occupational therapist with a Master's Degree in Gerontology, as well as certifications in Universal Design, Patient Navigation, and the Executive Certificate in Home Modifications (ECHM) from the University of Southern California. She operates her Ontario-based practice, Inclusive Aging, which focuses on family-centred, aging-in-place services. These services include both simple and complex home modifications, equipment and care coordination, and education for clients, family and/or care partners Margot also collaborates with businesses to enable accessible, age-inclusive products, spaces, and services. She is the co-chair of the CAOT's Home Modifications and Inclusive Design Network, a member of an interprofessional Design and Dementia Community of Practice, and a retired member of the Canadian Standards Association (CSA)'s B651 Technical Committee on Accessible Design for the Built Environment. Frequently invited as a public speaker and guest lecturer, Margot taught for York University's Faculty of Health - Health Leadership and Learning Network (HLLN) prior to its closure in May 2024. Margot is dedicated to ending one of the last socially acceptable prejudices - ageism - and is committed to empowering others to grow (b)older with purpose.

Registration fees

Registration deadline: September 18, 2025 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 3, 2025 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. No refunds will be given after September 3, 2025. Substitutions and transfers requests received by September 3, 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 August 8, 2025 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until August 22, 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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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, August 14 & Friday, August 15, 2025

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 autistic and other neurodivergent people and their families (e.g., Dallman et al., 2022; Kornblau & Robertson, 2021).

This two-day interactive workshop explores the presenter’s BEST (Body, Emotional, Sensory, and Thinking) evidence-based approach to co-create therapy plans with autistic and other 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 autistic and other 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 autistic and other neurodivergent individuals, and will discuss how to address these barriers.  

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

Preliminary workshop agenda

Day 1: Thursday, August 14, 2025

Day 2: Friday, August 15, 2025

Learning objectives

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

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) approach to support autistic and other neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults in engaging and participating in eating, sleep, and personal hygiene occupations.
3. Utilize the presenter’s BEST approach to support autistic and other neurodivergent children and adolescents in engaging and participating in meaningful play and school occupations.
4. Utilize the presenter’s BEST approach to support autistic and other 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

Autism/Neurodiversity, Caregiver/Family Education, Generalist, Health Promotion & Wellness, Leadership & Change Agency, Occupational Therapist Assistant, Pediatrics, Sensory Integration & Processing

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.

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

Registration deadline: August 14, 2025 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 July 30, 2025 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. No refunds will be given after July 30, 2025. Substitutions and transfers requests received by July 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 July 4, 2025 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until July 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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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.

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.

Online workshop

Thursday, April 17, 2025

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

What time is this for me?

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition (World Health Organization, 2023), with the Canadian prevalence significantly increasing over the past 10 years (Statistics Canada, 2023). Only 28% of Canadians with a mental health disorder felt that they received counselling or psychotherapy services that met their needs in the past year (Stephenson, 2023). OTs are well suited to deliver the gold standard treatment of exposure therapy for anxiety disorders (e.g., Chowdhury & Khandoker, 2022; McDermott et al., 2023); however, many OTs lack foundational knowledge and training that is specifically geared towards occupational therapy.

This one-day workshop will provide occupational therapy professionals the core skills needed to deliver exposure therapy confidently and effectively while incorporating the occupational therapy lens. The workshop will begin with an overview of clinical anxiety disorders and discussion of cognitive-behavioural conceptualizations and transdiagnostic maintenance factors. An overview of exposure therapy will be provided, including what it is and how it works (habituation, learning models, values-based models). The therapeutic process when delivering this intervention will be explained, including providing psychoeducation, self-monitoring of behavioural patterns, identifying core fears, cultivating an exposure mindset, developing an exposure menu, designing exposure plans, and implementing exposure exercises with coaching support from the therapist. Finally, common challenges will be explored. Lectures, demonstrations, as well as large and small group discussions will be utilized throughout the workshop to facilitate learning and applying concepts.

Preliminary workshop agenda

Learning objectives

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

1. Identify core features of clinical anxiety disorders. 

2. Understand cognitive and behavioural maintenance factors and implications for exposure therapy. 

3. Develop session agendas and create an exposure therapy treatment plan for their clients. 

4. Explain different types of exposures (in vivo, interoceptive, imaginal). 

5. Leverage occupational therapy models and skills in the delivery of services. 

6. Develop practical exposure therapy coaching skills through observing demonstrations and small group experiential practice.

7. Identify common challenges encountered in the delivery of this intervention and troubleshoot accordingly.

Target audience

Occupational therapist clinicians, occupational therapist assistants, students in occupational therapy programs, and students in OTA/PTA programs who wish to help their clients face their fears and reclaim their lives by learning about the first line treatment for anxiety disorders - exposure therapy! Social workers, nurses, and psychotherapists 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.

Areas of practice

Autism/Neurodiversity, Caregiver/Family Education, Case Management, Education & Fieldwork, Generalist, Mental Health, Occupational Therapist Assistant, Parental Health, Primary Care, Psychotherapy, Return to Work, Role-Emerging

Client age group

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.

Presenters

Aliza Ladak, OT Reg. (Ont.)

Aliza Ladak (she/her) is an occupational therapist practicing in the area of psychotherapy. She currently provides assessment and treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety disorders through her private practice. She has 12 years of mental health experience and has worked in several hospitals. Aliza currently works part-time at Sunnybrook's Frederick W. Thompson Anxiety Disorders Centre in their intensive OCD program. Aliza is very passionate about exposure-based interventions and provides educational initiatives to build capacity in community clinicians in this area.

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

Nathania Lukman (she/her) 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 team lead. As part of her role, she oversees the day-to-day operations of the intensive program, develops, and delivers individual treatment plans, and facilitates various groups within the program. In addition, Nathania continually engages in program evaluation and development efforts to improve client access to services and overall client outcome. 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 (I-CBT) for OCD, ACT, CFT and Motivational Interviewing. Nathania has a special interest and passion in working with neurodivergent individuals and the perinatal population.

Registration fees

Early bird rates: Registration and payment completed by February 19, 2025

Regular rates: Registration and payment completed after February 19, 2025

Registration deadline: April 17, 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.  *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 2, 2025 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. No refunds will be given after April 2, 2025. Substitutions and transfers requests received by April 2, 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 March 7, 2025 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until March 21, 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.

  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.

March 21 to April 3, 2025 (on your own) 

Fridays, April 4 & 11, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

What time is this for me?

Cognition is a functional domain that can be impacted by an injury, condition, disability, or significant changes in contextual demands. Cognitive difficulties can be difficult to navigate for occupational therapists due to the multi-factorial determinants of cognitive abilities. These difficulties, which can be modulated by contextual factors, can affect the occupational participation of clients, as expressed by the Canadian Model of Occupational Participation (CanMOP; Egan & Restall, 2022). Occupational therapy professionals can be leaders on the health care team in assessing function cognition and providing cognitive rehabilitation that includes interventions to improve cognitive functioning, to change the activity demands, or to change the social or physical environment (Giles et al., 2019).

This workshop will provide occupational therapy professionals with a foundation of knowledge and skills in cognitive rehabilitation based on the publication Evidence-based cognitive rehabilitation: Systematic review of the literature from 2009 through 2014 (Cicerone et al., 2019). A pre-recorded lecture (approximately 2 hours) will review principles, theories, and models of practice in cognitive rehabilitation. During the two-day workshop, participants will learn the principles of cognitive rehabilitation assessment and intervention strategies to increase occupational participation for adults experiencing deficits in meta-cognition, awareness, memory, attention, and executive functioning. To consolidate learning, participants will have a chance to apply these strategies to case study examples and will complete a quiz at the end of each workshop day

Preliminary workshop agenda

Pre-recorded lecture: March 21 to April 3, 2025

April 4, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

April 11, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

Learning objectives

After watching the pre-recorded lecture, you will be able to:

1. Understand the principles, theories, and models of practice in cognitive rehabilitation.

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

1. Identify current cognitive assessment tools for attention, memory, executive functioning, and awareness impairments.
2. Apply bottom-up and top-down intervention strategies within occupational therapy practice to improve attention, memory, executive functioning, and awareness impairments that impact occupational participation.
3. Understand common recommendations and accommodations linked to assessment findings to support a return-to-work process.
4. Consider how to apply the evidence from Evidence-based cognitive rehabilitation: Systematic review of the literature from 2009 through 2014 (Cicerone et al., 2019) in a functional context with various client populations living with cognitive deficits.

Target audience

Occupational therapists, occupational therapist assistants, and students in occupational therapy programs working with adults living with cognitive deficits that impact occupational participation. Participants are expected to have watched the pre-recorded webinar (approximately 2 hours, available by October 27, 2023) prior to attending the two-day workshop.

Cognitive rehabilitation by occupational therapists has been researched with people who sustained a brain injury (e.g., Dougherty & Radomski, 1987), people with schizophrenia (e.g., Wykes et al., 2011), people who sustained a stroke (e.g., Wolf, 2011), people with depression (e.g., Motter et al., 2015), people who have a substance use disorder (e.g., Rezapour et al., 2019), people with multiple sclerosis (e.g., Chen et al., 2021). There is also preliminary support for cognitive rehabilitation for people experiencing long COVID-19 (e.g., Watters et al., 2021) and for adults with Parkinson’s disease (e.g., Foster et al., 2021).

Please note: Both the presenters' clinical experience is primarily in private practice with people with a mild traumatic brain injury and/or mood disorders who are off work or having difficulty at work (ages 18-65 predominantly). Therefore, case studies, assessment tools, and evidence-based guidelines are developed from these populations. 

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 

Brain Injury/Concussion, Cognition, Generalist, Mental Health, MVA Rehabilitation, Return to Work

Workshop level 

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

Language 

English

Presenters

Adam Ly, OT Reg. (Ont.)  

Adam Ly has been practising 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 an adjunct lecturer at Western University and trainer at CBI Health teaching cognitive rehabilitation. He is passionate about understanding and treating the complexity of cognitive performance and hopes that occupational therapists with their unique skill set and lens will be the seen as one of the experts in cognitive performance and function among the health care team.

Amandeep (Aman) Bains, OT Reg. (Ont.)

Aman Bains graduated from Western University in 2004. He started his career working in community mental health, prior to joining CBI Health in 2007. He has practised in many roles at CBI Health including as an outpatient OT, Senior Regional OT, Provincial Practice Lead for Complex Care, and currently as the Senior Manager of National Training & Development. He is also the National Lead for Physical and Cognitive Functional Capacity Evaluations at CBI Health. Aman has extensive occupational rehabilitation experience working on an interdisciplinary team assisting clients with physical, cognitive and psychosocial barriers in return to function. Over the years, Aman has facilitated a number of courses related to functional capacity evaluation, ergonomics, occupational rehabilitation, physical & cognitive job demands analysis, risk assessment & intervention, and cognitive rehabilitation. He is passionate about best practice in complex care, mental health, cognitive rehabilitation and assisting in the development journey of others.    

Registration fees

Registration deadline: April 4, 2025 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 March 5, 2025 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. No refunds will be given after March 5, 2025. Substitutions and transfers requests received by March 5, 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 7, 2025 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until February 21, 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.

  Professional Development FAQs

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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.

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 features of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and develop a behavioural conceptualization of OCD.
2. Identify and utilize appropriate occupational models to assess and  develop a therapy plan with individuals living with OCD.
3. Identify and utilize various standardized and non-standardized assessments for OCD.
4. Explain what exposure and response prevention (ERP) is and its mechanism of action.
5. Apply guidelines and principles to deliver ERP effectively and ethically.
6. 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.

Thursday, March 20, 2025

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 January 15, 2025

Regular rates: Registration and payment completed after January 15, 2025

Registration deadline:  March 20, 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.  

*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 5, 2025 will be given a full refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. No refunds will be given after March 5, 2025. Substitutions and transfers requests received by March 5, 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 7, 2025 if there is insufficient registration by that date and reserves the right to cancel a Workshop due to insufficient registration up until February 21, 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.

  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.