For patients, navigating the differences between healthcare professionals such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, and athletic trainers can sometimes be tricky. We had an opportunity to dive into the role of occupational therapy with Sharniece Pierce, OTD, OTR/L, CPT, CSC, CLT-UE, CAFS, MFDc, an occupational therapist and hand therapist at our Spooner Ahwatukee clinic.
Sharniece was recently awarded Occupational Therapist of the Year by the Arizona Occupational Therapy Association, so we thought, what better time to learn more about her and what it takes to be an occupational therapist?
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational Therapy is the only profession that helps individuals across the lifespan be as independent as possible and able to best participate in their daily lives, leisure activities, work, play, and anything else they deem meaningful. Occupational Therapists (OTs) have a holistic perspective and collaborate with the patient to create goals and design interventions that are tailored to their specific needs. OTs are also able to provide comprehensive patient evaluations and are uniquely qualified to recommend adaptive equipment. OTs are an integral part of the therapy team.
What made you want to pursue a career as an Occupational Therapist?
I started off as an Exercise Science and Athletic Training major at Kansas Wesleyan University. Part of that experience included having to shadow a physical therapist. During my rotation, I realized I was not interested in being a physical therapist or in athletic training. I looked across the room, and I saw an OT, and I immediately wondered what they were doing. I then switched my rotation and started shadowing an OT. I knew immediately that was where I wanted to be. I then applied to Creighton University. They let me in, and here we are today!
What is the hardest part about being an OT? What is the best part about being an OT?
The hardest part could definitely be viewed as both a positive and a negative. You have to be adaptable. Every patient, diagnosis, and experience is going to be different. You have to be able to mold yourself in the moment and be able to adapt to change.
The best part? I love it when a patient comes in and says, “Oh, it’s never going to get better.” Then you see them a month or even a week later and see how much progress they have made. I’m really big on seeing progress. That is by far the most rewarding part of what we do every day, and I know I am helping my patients achieve or exceed their goals.
What is something you wish you had known before becoming an OT?
I would say I didn’t understand the amount of advocacy and education that I would have to do to be recognized as a valuable part of the therapy team. A lot of people have never heard of occupational therapy or they think it has to do with occupation/jobs. I regularly have conversations with people who wonder why they must go to an OT, not a PT. I find myself constantly explaining the difference between the two and promoting an appreciation for the holistic work of the OT practitioner.
What attributes make a great OT?
You have to be self-driven, do research outside of patient care and clinical experience, and definitely stay on top of continuing education classes. I think school sets that foundation, but after you graduate, you really have to zone in on what you need to do to progress yourself as a therapist and be most effective for your patients.
What advice would you give to aspiring OTs and undergrad students?
Be ready to advocate for yourself, your profession, and your patients at all times. I always try to keep a few students in the clinic. With everything that is going on with COVID-19, clinical rotations have been canceled, delayed, or pushed back, and a lot of students have nowhere to go to learn. I am fortunate that I have been able to maintain a group of students in Ahwatukee. We established the safety protocols and are able to have them safely in a welcoming learning environment. I am at the point in my career where I want to be a mentor and show students how to be a great OT.
What are you doing to further your education and/or professional development now?
I’m constantly seeking mentorship, both within and outside of Spooner. I don’t think I’ve ever gone even a month without taking some type of educational course. I definitely pride myself on that. I also like to take courses that are outside the box of traditional occupational therapy. There have been times when I was the only OT sitting in a room full of physicians or physical therapists.
Who has played the biggest influence in your career thus far?
The biggest influences so far have been God and my family. Thinking back to my Creighton experience, I would say Dr. Lou Jensen. She supported me both inside and outside of the classroom. My clinical instructor Dr. Abe Martinez. He’s a great hand therapist. As of recently, I would say Sophia Uehara. She is one of the leaders in the field that is definitely changing and making an impact on our profession. Sophia has made me a better clinical educator and a better mentor for the students I work with.
Where do you see the world of occupational therapy in the next 5 years?
The educational standards are changing. It’s an ever-growing field with unlimited opportunity. For instance, some OTs work in settings outside of the traditional hospital or outpatient environment. I would love to see us break out more into the sports realm. You now see physical therapists on the basketball court at NBA games. I would love to see OTs progress to that point.
What is your favorite memory at Spooner?
I’ve been at Spooner Ahwatukee for four years, and it has been a really great experience. I really enjoy the community events we hold, outside of COVID, of course. I like the fact that we get out in the community and are always willing to help people. I also love the education days that we do, which focus on continuously learning as a team and as an individual.
What does OT of the Year mean to you?
Overall, it’s a culmination of hard work over the years. It shows my dedication to the field and my dedication to students. The honor of being recognized by leaders in the field is huge to me. It lets me know the potential I have to make an impact on occupational therapy in the years to come!
Congratulations to Sharniece for winning the distinction of AZOTA Occupational Therapist of the Year! We are so proud of you. To schedule an appointment with Sharniece in our Ahwatukee clinic, click here. She can also be found through her Instagram.