What are competencies?

The Competencies for Occupational Therapists in Canada provides a standard that occupational therapists across Canada must meet in key areas of the profession including education, regulation, examination, accreditation, and continuing professional development. These competencies are taught in occupational therapy programs and upheld 

What are the competencies in Nova Scotia? 

Occupational therapists across Canada are held to the same standard of competencies under the Competencies for Occupational Therapists in Canada. Canadian occupational therapists organizations (Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists, the Association of Canadian Occupational Therapy Regulatory Organizations, and the Association of Canadian Occupational Therapy University Programs) collaborated to create the new Competencies for Occupational Therapists in Canada with guidance from occupational therapists and key stakeholders across Canada.  

The new Competencies for Occupational Therapists in Canada cover important aspects of occupational therapy practice. There are six domains each with competency statements that outline what is expected of every Occupational Therapist. Indicators provide additional guidance. 

The Competencies for Occupational Therapists in Canada reflect the broad range of skills and abilities required of all occupational therapists in Canada at every stage of their career. They also serve to guide a variety of professional quality assurance processes such as provincial regulatory activities, accreditation of educational programs, entry-level examinations, and continuing professional development.

Why are there new competencies?

Occupational Therapy is a dynamic profession that adapts to changes in culture, technology, and growing skill level. Implementing the Competencies for Occupational Therapists in Canada will advance safe, effective and ethical care for all individuals served by occupational therapists. 

 

This project was funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Foreign Credential Recognition Program.