Salt Lake Community College

Occupational Therapy Assistant Program

OTA 1210 Professional Issues Reflection
Rebecca Withers, OTAS
Spring Semester 2016
I enjoyed the aspects and discussions in this course as it related to how we need to
conduct ourselves with our clients as well as our colleagues. There were aspects that were similar
to the mental health field I was able to relate to such as getting to know the client and possible
triggers. Identifying what types of communication are beneficial to a client and how to develop
a healthy, productive, and professional relationship with a client.
There were aspects of the course I hadnt considered beforehand in a detailed manner. I viewed
many of the topics as yes, this is how things should be and doesnt everyone do this? I learned
in depth how to start to critically reason and think like a clinician and I feel I had an eye opening
ah hah moment of why and how local and governmental affiliations are important to our field
of work. I enjoyed the aspects of the course that helped us understand our role as clinicians to
our clients and how I was able to better understand the clients right and how I need to advocate
for them as well.
Going over the laws and understanding my responsibility as a clinician was interesting and I
enjoyed the feedback and discussion within our class. I feel we are making the change and
understanding better what our role is and how to improve ourselves in a professional manner.
Overall Ive seen progression with my cohorts regarding their professionalism and how we
interact. Some of us have grown more than others.
I appreciate the personal insight and experience you gave as a clinician and how you represent
the field in a professional and realistic way. It was a great course and I am looking forward to
the next portion in the fall as we continue our transformation.