Occupational therapist Dahliena Chavac shares about working as a school-based OT, discusses virtual occupational therapy, and shares advice for OTs just starting out.

<div class="text"><div>
<div>
<div>
<div><span style="font-size:18px">At Cross Country Education we have the best of the best from across the nation impacting the lives of students in the schools they serve every day. We take great pride in their shared passion for education, and we love passing along their words of wisdom, sage advice for those embarking on their careers, and great insight into the rewarding field of education.</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-size:18px">This week, we celebrate occupational therapist Dahliena Chavac. Dahliena took some time to explain what has motivated her to become a school-based occupational therapist and to offer advice for those just starting out.</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-size:18px"><strong>Why did you become an occupational therapist?</strong></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:18px">I became an occupational therapist because I wanted to help people with disabilities across the lifespan live a meaningful life by teaching them the skills to live with as much independence as possible. Whether it is helping a student learn and develop the skills to be successful and independent in school or teaching an adult the skills for independent daily living, I enjoy working with individuals to help empower them to live a fulfilled life. Occupational therapy allows me the opportunity to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to find creative ways to meet an individual's goals and help them engage in their daily occupations.</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-size:18px"><strong>What do you like about working with Cross Country Education?</strong></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:18px">I appreciate the flexibility that Cross Country Education offers with scheduling as well as the opportunity to take on a variety of assignments and roles that allow me to work with many different people and schools. I also enjoy collaborating with different providers and appreciate the support that my department provides when I reach out for assistance.</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-size:18px"><strong>What kind of advice would you give to those just starting to provide virtual OT services?</strong></span></div>

<div><span style="font-size:18px">I know that virtual OT services can present many challenges, but my advice would be to focus on trying to provide the best support possible and not focus on being perfect. We have a unique opportunity to help the parents feel involved and empowered in helping their children during this time and we can provide a unique insight to help families carryover strategies into the home setting. I think that with time and practice, like with all things, virtual services will eventually become easier. And of course, always check if you are on mute!</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-size:18px">Thank you, Dahliena, for all you do! We are grateful to have you as a part of the Cross Country Education team!</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div><span style="font-size:18px"><strong><a href="https://www.crosscountryeducation.com/home">Cross Country Education</a></strong> is educator-led, student-driven, and solutions-oriented. With over 50 years of combined dedicated expertise, we service the education industry exclusively. Focusing our knowledge and resources on engaging with and understanding educational organizations, industry trends, and leadership needs, we provide a wide range of services to our educational partners to meet their individual needs including special education and substitute services. We specialize in substitute teacher and instructional assistants, special education service providers, healthcare staff, early childhood education teachers, educator search services, consultation, and trainings. Cross Country Education, formerly DirectEd and Mediscan, is part of the <a href="https://www.crosscountryhealthcare.com/about-us">Cross Country Healthcare</a> family, one of the leading healthcare and education staffing companies in the nation.</span></div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>
<span style="font-size:18px"><strong><a href="https://www.crosscountryeducation.com/contact-us">Contact us</a></strong> today to discover how our experienced team of talent professionals at Cross Country Education can deliver solutions for your educational staffing needs.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: Dahliena C., Occupational Therapist