Sonya Erickson MS OTR/L
Minnetonka
Summary
Dynamic and innovative Occupational Therapist with extensive experience at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, specializing in mental health and neurological rehabilitation. Proven track record in interdisciplinary collaboration and patient education, enhancing independence through evidence-based interventions. Skilled in assistive technology, myofascial pain management, self regulation strategies and committed to optimizing patient outcomes through tailored treatment plans and effective communication.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Occupational Therapist Inpatient Psychiatry
Veterans Affairs Medical Center
07.2020 - Current
- Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient care and rehabilitation outcomes.
- Educated patients and families on therapeutic techniques, home sensory modulation and self emotional regulation programs.
- Conducted comprehensive evaluations to assess occupational performance and functional abilities.
- Developed individualized treatment plans to enhance patient's ability to self regulate and increase independence with ADls and IADL's
- Implemented evidence-based interventions to improve daily function and health maintenance in the context of mental illness
- Mentored students on best practices in occupational therapy strategies and documentation standards.
- Streamlined assessment processes, increasing efficiency in patient intake and treatment planning procedures.
- Documented patient progress accurately and efficiently, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Lead therapist on OT Mental Health Workgroup that develops protocols and provides education to the greater OT department
Occupational Therapist, NeuroRehab
Veterans Affairs Medical Center
12.2008 - 07.2020
- Conducted comprehensive assessments to develop personalized treatment plans for clients to improve overall function for ADL's and IADL's.
- Implemented evidence-based therapeutic interventions to enhance client independence and functionality.
- Driver Rehab Specialist, evaluated safety in driving and provided hand control training to individuals with spinal cord injuries and disorders.
- Assistive Technology Practitioner, provided assistive technology assessments and implementation for computer access, home environments and wheelchairs.
- Provided expertise treatment involving myofascial systems to manage chronic pain and improve AROM for daily function
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care and effective communication.
- Provided education to empower patients and families to understand conditions, treatments and treatment options for managing symptoms.
- Adapted environments by making changes to patient homes and workplaces to promote safety, independence and participation.
- Developed patient education materials on ergonomics and injury prevention, promoting wellness in community.
Occupational Therapist, NeuroRehab
Courage Kenny
07.2005 - 12.2008
- Evaluated and developed personalized treatment plans to enhance patient's daily functioning in ADLs and IADLs
- Procured appropriate DME through letters of medical necessity.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive patient care and rehabilitation strategies.
- Conducted assessments to evaluate patient progress and adjust therapy protocols accordingly.
- Provided interventions and treatments to improve patient abilities to perform daily activities, manage symptoms and prevent injury.
- Mentored occupational therapy students during clinical rotations, fostering professional growth and development.
Occupational Therapist, SNF
Benedictine Health Systems
05.2004 - 07.2005
- Conducted comprehensive assessments to identify clients' needs and establish treatment goals.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members for comprehensive patient care and optimal results.
- Promoted independence in activities of daily living through task analysis, environmental adaptations, and compensatory techniques.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing individualized treatment plans and monitoring progress.
- Adapted environments by making changes to patient homes to promote safety, independence and participation.
Education
Master of Science - Occupational Therapy
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND05-2004
Skills
- Family and patient education
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Group therapy
- Assistive technology
- Mental health interventions
- Neurological rehabilitation
- Mental Health
- Acute and rehabilitative care
- Time management
Certification
Assistive Technology Practitioner
Driver Rehab Specialist
Certified Veteran and Military Mental Health Professional
Craniosacral Training, Level 1,2, and SER 1
Timeline
Occupational Therapist Inpatient Psychiatry
Veterans Affairs Medical Center
07.2020 - Current
Occupational Therapist, NeuroRehab
Veterans Affairs Medical Center
12.2008 - 07.2020
Occupational Therapist, NeuroRehab
Courage Kenny
07.2005 - 12.2008
Occupational Therapist, SNF
Benedictine Health Systems
05.2004 - 07.2005
Master of Science - Occupational Therapy
University of North Dakota