It has been such a long time since I’ve written or posted
anything, mostly because I really haven’t had anything to say and partly
because I’ve been too lazy to actually sit and write. Sometimes, I think I
should be back in school, it appeared that I had more discipline and wrote more
then, than I do now.
Well a lot has happened since I last wrote. If you don’t
know by now, I am officially an OTR/L. I was awarded this title in November
2012. In February I went back to my previous place of employment and got a job
as an OTR/L fulltime. It was quickly realized that I no longer fit in there. I
just felt that over a one year time period, things had changed and I did not
feel like this was the place for me anymore. I don’t’ know how to explain it. I
loved being with the girls, but at the same time I felt like my being gone for
a year, we all grew apart and I some how did not feel like a member of the team
anymore. I felt like I was a new employee trying to find my place and fit into
a very familiar setting. Also, I did not feel as though I was getting the
respect that I worked hard for. When I started working there I was a COTA. Over
the past several years I worked hard to achieve my degree and change my status
from COTA to OTR. This was not the case where I work; others did not accept my
change in status. I was not given the full responsibilities that an OTR should
be given (ok you might be thinking, are you crazy? You want more
responsibility?). With the exception of now officially doing the evaluations
legally, it felt like my judgment, clinical decisions and new leadership was
not accepted. Anyway, after a few short months, 4 ½ to be exact I left the only
place I’ve worked for the past 8 years. I will truly miss working with my
wonderful co-workers everyday.
So on 6/24 I began a new adventure and started a new job. So
far it’s been a nice transition. The facility is a lot closer to home. Instead
of taking 1-2 hours getting to / from work, I spend a total of 20-30 mins
getting to / from work. What a
nice change!! I also got a raise, so that helps. It sucks to start at the
bottom again and be the NEW person, but everyone is making me feel very
welcome. Everyone is very friendly, and I imagine that within a few months I
will have some firm relationships established and I will be respected for the
OTR/L that I have become. I am also feeling a bit more confident in this new
position. I will find my NEW COMFORT ZONE. I don’t’ know why and it’s hard to
explain, but I feel refreshed and have some great ideas for treatments.
Yesterday, I got what I thought was a nice compliment from my boss. She said,
“you are doing a nice job, it’s like you have always worked here.” I thought
that was a very nice compliment and it made me feel good. I am slowly getting myself organized and
learning about my new “home” away from home.
Well, I am going to go and enjoy the rest of the evening.
It’s hot and sticky outside, but I enjoy sitting on the front porch in the
early evening watching the traffic and listening to the birds.
Happy 4th of July!!!!!
