Questions your fellow practitioners have asked before jumping into OT Pioneers
* Can OTs really do pelvic health therapy?
Absolutely! I believe no one is better equipped than an OT to address pelvic health dysfunction. Here’s why…
When it comes to talking about something as intimate as pelvic health, nothing is more important than trust.
In fact, these topics are often overlooked by other practitioners, either because they don’t know how to ask the right questions or because the patient feels uncomfortable bringing them up.
That’s probably why these topics are sometimes called “hand on the doorknob” issues...
By the time a patient finally feels comfortable enough to bring up a problem like incontinence with their doctor, it’s usually just as they are opening the door to walk OUT.
OTs have a real opportunity to flip the script.
Because we’re trained to listen to our clients’ unique stories, connect with them on an emotional level, and take into account the whole person — not just the most immediate and obvious physical symptoms…
OTs are uniquely qualified to empower pelvic health patients to listen to the wisdom of their own bodies so they can heal and get back to enjoying life again.
* Will I be able to make a difference in my client’s lives?
Yes! One of the best things about working in pelvic health is, your clients are seriously motivated.
Think about it…
Peeing, pooping, and having sex are fundamental. Any chronically lingering problem in those areas of life won’t just affect your client’s body. It makes their world smaller and smaller and smaller.
And as you know, OT has such a tremendous effect on human function. When you help a client with a pelvic health issue, you’re giving them back their lives, their loves, and their dignity.
* Will my skills be enough to get hired?
While not everyone who takes OT Pioneers goes on to work exclusively in pelvic health, OT Pioneers grads find they start using what they've learned in the course right away.
The fact is, as OTs we have to address the whole person. So whether you’re working in a hospital, assisted living facility, or in a clinic… pelvic health therapy is a huge part of what our clients need.
You don’t have to open your own pelvic health practice (though I’ll be your biggest cheerleader if you do!) but you might just find that — once word starts spreading about your new skills, pelvic health clients may start seeking you out specifically.
Regardless, when you become an expert in pelvic health, you can better serve your clients, whatever your current role.
* Will OT Pioneers prepare me for Herman & Wallace PF1?
It sure can! I've heard from many OTs that the course gave them the confidence to walk into Herman & Wallace programs feeling just as prepared as anyone else in the class.
I know just the thought of performing an internal exam can make some OTs feel like they have two left hands! So that “hands-on” lab during the Herman & Wallace program can sound pretty intimidating, especially in a room full of PTs who are already pros at “hands-on” work.
That’s why I specifically include a detailed, step-by-step demonstration of an external and internal exam on a live model. You’ll get a clear picture of what to expect from your Herman & Wallace experience.
So if you don't feel quite ready for Herman & Wallace, OT Pioneers is an easy way to get you prepped!
* Do I have to be an OT to take OT Pioneers?
Not at all! In fact, plenty of doulas, midwives, childbirth educators, and fitness professionals have had great success in taking the course and applying it to professions outside of Occupational Therapy. Lots of practitioners can benefit from learning about pelvic health from an OT perspective.
* I’m really busy with work. How much time is this going to take?
Basically, as much time as you’re willing to put into it.
That’s the beauty of taking an online course. There is no travel required (and no hotel costs adding up!) so you can take the course at your own pace.
And bonus…
Unlike a live class, you don’t have to rush to take notes (I always miss something important at live seminars because I’m scribbling to keep up). Just back the video clip up and re-watch the modules as many times as you like!
* I’m a new OT. Is it too soon to take OT Pioneers?
It’s never too early to start exploring a specialty you’re interested in.
In fact, veteran OTs keep telling me how much they wished they had started with this course years ago!
OT Pioneers was created to be a non-scary way to dive into the basics of pelvic health. Wouldn’t you like to know ASAP if this is the field you want to pursue?
