We are currently looking for an Occupational Therapist to provide services in Alliston. Dance classes primarily take place on Fridays (October – May) and the candidate may provide anywhere between 2-10 hours a week of in-person or remote support.

OT Emma stands smiling with three dancers in costumes next to her (one using a walker).

Why Work with Us?

Working with The Dance Ability Movement is more than just a job. It’s an opportunity to use your talents to make a difference in the lives of dancers of all abilities. As an OT you will bring to life our Dance Ability Philosophy: we are all unique, we all deserve equal opportunities, and we all have the ability to dance. You will be joining a movement that embraces inclusion & belonging, and is committed to creating a community where everybody can experience the joy of dance and thrive.

Occupational Therapist, Casual Independent Contract Position

Pay Rate: $40/hour 

Program Description: 

The Dance Ability Movement strives to:

  • Be inclusive for all.
  • Enable dancers to express themselves and realize their potential.
  • Inspire dancer’s participation in a way that is adapted to provide appropriate challenges for each individual in a safe and enjoyable manner.
  • Develop a community among families and participants of The Dance Ability Movement programs and their host studios.
  • Raise awareness about individuals with special needs as contributing members of society.

The role of the Occupational Therapist is to carry out the above mission of The Dance Ability Movement. The OT will demonstrate the core values of The Dance Ability Movement, advocating for students of all abilities to participate in their community leisure occupations. The OT will enable the participation of all dancers within the host studio environment through collaboration and education of the dance instructor, host studio owner, volunteers, and dance families. The OT does not need to have dance experience, although this is an asset (especially teaching experience).

The OT responsibilities will include: 

  • Facilitating the studio culture in alignment with The Dance Ability Movement vision and values.
  • New Dancer Intakes & Support: Initial assessment meeting with dancer/family prior to starting classes. Setting participation-based goals with dancer/family. Ongoing communication & collaboration with family and DAM team to implement strategies to support participation goals. Maintaining dancers’ chart. Preparing summary report of strategies used to achieve participation goals.
  • Volunteer Training & Support: Supporting the training of volunteers prior to the start of classes; providing verbal and written feedback to volunteers throughout the session.
  • Instructor Support: Education and planning with dance instructor prior to start of classes. Ongoing collaboration & coaching throughout the session to support inclusive classes and facilitate participation of all.
  • Recital Support: Planning with the dance instructor for recital choreography (recommendations for teaching strategies, how to support dancers’ on stage, considerations for choreography, etc.). Developing a plan with studio owner (and instructor) for D.A.M. dancers’ participation in their show (i.e., accessibility considerations, recommendations to facilitate smooth processes for D.A.M. families and dancers, considerations for waiting times, costuming, volunteer and 1:1 support needs, etc.). Attendance at end-of-year recitals at the theatre to support implementation of plan and oversee participation of dancers at integrated studio events.
  • Other opportunities for advocacy, education, collaboration and support within the dance community.

Qualifications: 

  • Registration with the College of Occupational Therapist’s of Ontario (COTO) in good standing
  • Member of CAOT and/or OSOT; must have insurance coverage for independent practice
  • Proven success with essential competencies of Occupational Therapy practice
  • Preferred experience related to dance (or similar movement-based activities); or demonstrated initiative and willingness to learn
  • Results-oriented work ethic to work independently and undertake tasks needed to accomplish work objectives and deliver quality, consistent and timely results
  • Demonstrated leadership, conflict resolution, interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Proven written and verbal communication skills
  • Proven ability to adapt readily to change
  • Preference for a minimum of 2 years of recent and related experience working as an OT (although not required)
  • Preference for recent and related experience working with children (toddlers – young adult) with unique abilities including developmental delays and neuromuscular disorders
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Occupational Therapy theory, best practices, principles, and treatment techniques for clients with Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Ability to work independently and effectively collaborate with a team
  • Excellent computer literacy skills, including use of Zoom video conferencing
  • Valid Ontario Driver’s Licence and access to a car is an asset

Locations

The Dance Ability Movement currently works with several host studios across southern Ontario.  The successful candidate will provide services in Alliston at the following locations:

  • The Dance Workshop, 96 Victoria St W, Alliston, ON

With potential opportunity to service other locations as well.

Please send your resume and cover letter to Mallory and Jade at contact@danceabilitymovement.com. Interview and reference check will be completed with potential applicants on an as-needed basis.