ENTRY-LEVEL OT SNF: INSIDER EDITION

In this video, I get to sit down with Mae OTR/L to learn more about what it's like to be an entry-level occupational therapy practitioner in a skilled-nursing facility (SNF).
SNFs are one of the most popular job settings for Occupational Therapy practitioners (of course depending on location). Some may have experience through fieldwork or shadowing opportunities which may help with future employment but is not always necessary.
Here we get to learn some of the challenges of being an entry-level therapist in this setting but also the amazing rewards that one might have.
To learn more about practicing in skilled nursing facilities please check out these links below:
AOTA:
tinyurl.com/ya...
tinyurl.com/y7...
tinyurl.com/y8...
Thank you for watching and Much OT love.
Alondra La OT
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[@corrinestrassner8410]

Wow. 4-11 patients! Good for you. I wonder what company. The most Ive had in one day is 23...still 90% productivity. Unfortunately regardless of how passionate you are in this field, they sometimes make it impossible for you to actually do a good job 😢. Glad you found a good place to start.

[@hollimckee9521]

Loved this! Proud of you Mae!!

[@aggiec1794]

What a cool cat in the background

[@bggrfafe]

Can you do a video about what it’s like to be a school-based therapist?

[@AlondraLaOT]

Hoping to do one soon!!! Thank you for asking!

[@mycavernomastory9897]

Best of luck

[@corrinestrassner8410]

I disagree with how long the treatments are at skilled nursing. I mainly see 30 minutes. Ive had ots for 15 minutes and rarely see a manager give consistent patients to the same therapist day after day. Sounds like you had a good experience, however I dont think its common in my experience.

[@AlondraLaOT]

Yes. I imagine it varies from facility to facility and states, etc. 🙂

[@narizona84]

great video!!!

[@joeykearney139]

How did you navigate the first few weeks after not having experience in that setting? I have worked in Hands for the past year, my field work was in hands and school based OT, so I’m a bit anxious about a new setting.

[@AlondraLaOT]

Good question. Thank you for asking. Hopefully, your new setting has experienced therapists that you can reach out to in case you have questions or concerns. However, the fact that you have experience as a therapist adds value to your clinical skills which are just as important. Go at your pace, learn the ropes, maybe take some continuing education courses, and know that some things will be new, and that's alright. Good luck with your new endeavor! That's exciting!

[@kabrinahobson9740]

Any advice/tips for my upcoming level II fieldwork for OTA at SNF?

[@akdennisjr]

I’m an entry level COTA and I have a few SNF interviews/ facility tours this weekday which I feel pretty comfortable with bc I definitely loved working in a SNF during FW, and I feel like I’ll definitely strive in that type of setting. But I’m not too sure how to negotiate my hourly pay rate or if I should. My sis is an OTR/L and she pretty much told me to take what they’re willing to offer bc I’m an entry level COTA with ZERO therapeutic experience other then FW. Idk how I feel about that due to the fact that I’ve heard that some rehabs will take advantage of new grads. (Not sure how true that is) Any suggestions or advice?

[@AlondraLaOT]

Congrats!!! Welcome to the world of job hunting! I would for sure do my research on the rate for entry-level new grads and the going rate for individuals with more experience. Negotiating pay can be tricky, especially if the job market is saturated with OTAs in your area. If you want to negotiate pay, I would be upfront if they ask how much. Just make sure you do your research beforehand so your not asking for some inflated rate. Also make sure to sell your qualities. Don't just ask for a higher pay just because you want more money...we all do. Lol. You need to let them know why you deserve it too as an entry-level COTA. Highlight all the skills you are bringing to the table! Good luck and I hope you don't fear asking for more, so ask for what is fair. :-)

[@akdennisjr]

Thanks for the advice! 😊 & FYI, I also started following your Instagram page. Keep up the great work!!

[@AlondraLaOT]

@@akdennisjryou're very welcome and thank you for the support!

[@corrinestrassner8410]

*patients, not ots