PRACTICE CATEGORIES
Whether the goal was initially described by the client, a parent, a teacher or a job coach, I understand that clients themselves must understand the importance of their actions and what is possible with patience/diligence. I know how to internally motivate each individual to progress toward the lifestyle they desire.
IN THE HOME
- Kitchen skills: cooking, recipe building, menu planning, shopping
- Chores: making the bed, taking out the garbage, cleaning the house
- Scheduling: maintaining a calendar, managing free time, executive functioning skills
- Self-care: grooming, showering, medication
Example: placing marks on the stove and shower, so client can set the right temperatures on their own, allowing them to relieve stress and focus on the task.
ON THE JOB
- Communication: interacting with supervisor and coworkers
- Scheduling: reporting to work on time and remembering their daily schedule
- Independence: phasing out the need for a job coach by using an iPad to help clients remember individual tasks and related steps
- Confidence: holding a conversation with colleagues or strangers (learning flexibility and representing their own interests)
Example: Use QR codes to prompt client to implement the correct workflow at each workstation
IN THE COMMUNITY
- Independence: going for walks, visiting the library or other regular locations; using multiple transportation modes and accessing locations
- Quality of life: inviting friends for activities/socializing
Confidence: learning to navigate new spaces - Family assistance: helping family members feel comfortable as the client’s independence grows
- Advocating: Representing a client’s needs regarding an allergy with community members in person, by phone or email.
Example: Shooting and creating videos onsite to later reflect, to see “problems” with the environment or lacking skills, and find ways to teach or support so the goal can be achieved.