Jeena Parmar

My professional journey began many years ago in British Columbia. While pursuing a degree in Psychology, I was presented with a new opportunity to help improve people’s quality of life through an occupational therapy and physiotherapy lens. The role of Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant (OTA/PTA) embraced a holistic perspective, which I greatly valued in my day-to-day interactions.

It has been an exciting experience to be a part of a unique profession that continues to evolve and make positive strides through advocacy and research. Working under the supervision of a therapist, the occupational therapist assistant role involves implementing rehabilitation programs to maintain and enhance functional abilities and independence. Though not yet regulated, momentum is building across various platforms for this role to gain formal recognition, as we increasingly acknowledge the importance of collaboration. The opportunities arising from these open conversations have led to effective, positive outcomes. OTAs now have the opportunity to be members of OSOT and CAOT, which allows for greater representation of the profession and underscores the importance of being “stronger together.”

My career as an OTA/PTA was set in motion by exploring diverse settings, as is often expected when starting at an entry-level position. I gained experience and skills in long-term care, inpatient/outpatient rehabilitation, pediatrics, psychiatry, orthopedics, neurology, and general medicine. Eventually, I found myself working in acute care at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto for more than 18 years, specializing in cardiology, vascular surgery, and coronary intensive care. During my time there, I was honoured with the Health Discipline Clinical Excellence Award.

As an advocate and leader for the profession, my contributions as a preceptor and clinical instructor have been recognized across various platforms. Currently, I serve as the Vice-Chair of the OTA/PTA Program Advisory Committee at Centennial College. I have had the pleasure of being a preceptor for over 20 years, working with students at various levels. Our students, like our clients, come from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences. The additional guidance I offer within my OTA skillset has helped them embrace new concepts. Preceptors and students play a significant role in bridging knowledge gaps, and we must all remain open to adaptation—a hallmark of our profession.

However, there continues to be a limited understanding of the OTA’s abilities and how the OT-OTA practice complements one another. As a result, uncertainty about OTA responsibilities can arise, which makes education and awareness critical to overcoming these challenges.

With the evolution of the OTA role and the updated competencies, it is clear to see how we can align together to advocate for the profession and support each other for a successful exchange of ideas. We must see obstacles as opportunities to keep moving forward. In embracing change and understanding the importance of practicing advocacy, I needed to provide a safe space for open meaningful conversations around the role of OTA/PTA. Everyone does not have to agree, but sharing perspectives starts a discussion that can lead to collaborative learning. Transforming a culture takes time and transparency. I started to position myself in various environments to support these conversations. Innovation is important to the continuing success of any organization.

The introduction of the Classroom Teaching Support role in the Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy Department at the University of Toronto has brought a new collaborative lens to the academic setting. The skills and insights I bring as an OTA provide valuable support to students, faculty, and staff. I am excited to see what the future holds. Supporting an environment of collaborative learning is a partnership. If we can demonstrate the importance of relationships in our practice, the transition to new settings will be smoother and strengthen existing ones. This will allow us to foster an environment where interprofessional teams can build relationships and become effective leaders in this growing profession. .