Interdisciplinary Therapy Assistant

Program overview

The Interdisciplinary Therapy Assistant program at Bow Valley College is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and hands-on experience needed for a rewarding career in interdisciplinary rehabilitation therapy. This diploma program focuses on training students in four key therapy areas: physical therapy, occupational therapy, recreation therapy, and speech therapy. Graduates will be prepared to support clients in various rehabilitation settings, helping them lead stronger and more independent lives. The program emphasizes teamwork and care skills, ensuring that students are career-ready and capable of making a meaningful impact in the lives of those they assist.

Program structure

The Interdisciplinary Therapy Assistant program spans 6 terms, providing a comprehensive education in rehabilitation therapy. The program structure includes:

• Four-in-one training covering physical therapy, occupational therapy, recreation therapy, and speech therapy.
• Hands-on experience in a dedicated therapy lab that simulates real rehabilitation environments.
• Supervised placements in various therapy settings, allowing students to apply their learning in practical situations.
• A final interdisciplinary practicum that integrates all learned therapies into a cohesive experience.

Students will also have the opportunity to engage in work-integrated learning placements across Calgary and Alberta, including rural areas. These placements may require students to work variable shifts, including evenings and weekends, depending on the site schedules. This structure ensures that students gain valuable real-world experience while completing their diploma.

Featured Experiences

The Interdisciplinary Therapy Assistant program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

• Training in a dedicated therapy lab that mirrors real rehabilitation spaces, providing students with practical skills.
• Meaningful placements in physical therapy, occupational therapy, recreation therapy, and speech-language pathology.
• An interdisciplinary practicum that ties together all aspects of the training, showcasing how different therapies work collaboratively.
• Opportunities for work-integrated learning placements in various settings, including community and healthcare environments.
• Focus on building essential skills in communication, documentation, and collaboration with diverse client populations.

Career Options

Graduates of the Interdisciplinary Therapy Assistant program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

• Physical Therapy Assistant: Support physiotherapists in implementing exercise and mobility programs for clients.
• Occupational Therapy Assistant: Assist clients in engaging in daily activities through adaptive strategies and equipment.
• Recreation Therapy Assistant: Lead therapeutic activities that enhance clients' quality of life and promote social connections.
• Speech-Language Pathology Assistant: Help implement communication and swallowing programs under the guidance of a speech therapist.
• Rehabilitation Aide: Provide support in rehabilitation settings, assisting therapists with client care and administrative tasks.

These roles allow graduates to make a significant difference in the lives of individuals requiring rehabilitation services, contributing to their overall well-being and independence.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.