Why is OT necessary for victims of crime?

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The occupational therapy (OT) evaluation process is focused on finding out what the survivors and their family members want and need to do and identifying the factors that act as supports or barriers to performance of desired occupations. Current occupational performance; routines and habits; activity demands; socio- cultural beliefs/expectations; and physical, cognitive, and psycho- social factors are addressed during the evaluation process.

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Interventions with adults who are survivors of domestic violence focus on empowerment and active participation in healthy occupations or daily life activities. These may include working on the development of a realistic budget, facilitating the use of effective decision-making skills regarding employment opportunities, learning calming techniques to use with their children, learning assertiveness skills, and teaching stress management and relaxation techniques to improve sleep patterns.

 

Interventions with children who have witnessed domestic violence may include facilitation of developmentally appropriate play skills, social skills training, the use of techniques for improving concentration and attention span during school activities, and assistance with the organization of study habits and school materials.

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Our Occupational Therapy consultations and services are provided for free (insurance not required) because we believe it shouldn't cost you to heal. Our services are offered by OT interns who are Master or Doctoral students and work closely with our OT clinical supervisor to plan and implement care. All our interns are trained through our trauma-informed interdisciplinary mental health track. 

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To learn more about these services, please reach out to Jamie Kellicut at JKellicut@HIRWellness.org or call our main line for more information at 414-763-5815.