Jennifer Radonicich 

I started my career in paediatric occupational therapy in 1998 after graduating from University of Toronto. I still remember my excitement to get started, see clients, and make a difference. Over the past 25 years, I have had many roles within the community, including supporting clients in their homes, classrooms, childcare settings, treatment centres, and a private practice clinic. I have provided consultation to caregivers, staff, and parents as well as provided direct treatment.It has been an honour to stand alongside many amazing children and their families as they navigate their lives. Helping families during some of the most challenging times of their lives is a very special part of my job.

The field of paediatric occupational therapy has various paths to follow. I have had the opportunity to explore different fields, including neurodevelopmental therapy, sensory integration, motor control theory, the use of music to support the nervous system, oral motor strategies, child-led play intervention strategies, and trauma-sensitive practices. Throughout my career, I have worked for VHA Rehab, Geneva Centre, Community Living, Lumenus, Ellen Yack and Associates, and Paediatric Physiotherapy Associates. It has been a wonderful learning experience to have such diverse learning opportunities. 

I have had many special moments during my 26 years career. One of those was when my client's vision was restored, and she saw my colorful socks for the very first time. I also had a client who became comfortable enjoying the roller coasters at Canada's Wonderland, and another who was able to ask for what he wanted for Christmas for the first time when he was 9. These experiences remind me of the small yet significant victories that come with helping others overcome challenges. It’s these milestones that make my work so rewarding, as I get to witness people discovering new possibilities and living fuller lives. As I work with clients in a private practice setting, I am free to be creative in applying various frames of reference to support my clients and their families, and to meet their specific needs. This continues to be one of the most enjoyable aspects of my work. Early in my career, I could attend only 2-3 in-person courses each year as there were no virtual options back then. With the expansion of virtual learning, I can now attend almost any course, anytime I want - what freedom!.

I am not the same occupational therapist who graduated many years ago, and I believe that the experience of more than two decades helped me grow. OT in the past for me was more about fine motor skills and now my focus is more on trauma recovery and interoception. Due to OAP funding more families can access the support that they need. I was meant to learn about myself while learning information for my clients, and as a result, I made changes along the way. OSOT helped me feel part of the community of OT 's within Ontario. I have taken education through OSOT that has been helpful in developing my career. I am so very proud to be part of a profession that offers such potential for growth and development.