Supporting injured workers: Core principles of return-to-work practice (November 3, 2026)

Presented by: Ali Heighton Lamb  

Up to 50% of private practice involves workplace recovery interventions. Whether addressing injuries from motor vehicle accidents, personal or workplace injuries, or illness, work is a central occupation for adults and returning to work is essential for well-being. Yet, many occupational therapists receive limited education on supporting clients through this process (Désiron et al., 2011; Long et al., 2024). The webinar will provide a brief overview of workers’ compensation, including its history, background, and influence on current compensation models. It will review the impact of prolonged work disability on adults’ health and well-being. The majority of the webinar will focus on practical strategies for helping injured or ill adults return to work safely and in a timely manner. Ethical challenges clinicians may encounter while working within or alongside the compensation system will also be discussed, providing a comprehensive perspective on return-to-work practice for occupational therapists.

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

1. Describe the foundations of the workers' compensation model in Canada.
2. Identify common psychosocial barriers faced by injured or ill workers and appropriate interventions to address them.
3. Lay out a basic return-to-work program for an injured adult that can be adjusted to meet the needs of different individuals.

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

Area of practice Automobile Insurance, Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries, Ergonomics, MSK/Ortho/Cardio-Resp, Return to Work

Client age group Adults (20-64 years old)