About Us
Psychiatric Occupational Therapy (Psych OT) is a specialty area focused on identifying effective strategies for managing daily life in the midst of a mental health crisis. We specialize in assessing how patients' functioning has been impacted by their mental illness and identify effective strategies for promoting success and adaptation in the face of a challenge.
Our Mission
We support the recovery and wellbeing of individuals with mental illness through successful engagement in meaningful activities.
How We Can Help
Psychiatric occupational therapists prioritize establishing a therapeutic relationship, a holistic approach, and individualized treatment to maximize patient success in daily living.
Interventions may include:
- Medication management
- Routines
- Self-care
- Emotional regulation
- Concentration
- Problem-solving
Available Services
Inpatient Units
Psych OTs play a significant role on the inpatient psychiatric units by providing mental health treatment to individuals across the lifespan. Psych OTs specialize in addressing the impact of mental health symptoms on daily functioning and using effective treatments based on individual needs. The Psych OT team provides group therapy and individual sessions to assist patients in meeting their personal goals.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
The Adult Psychiatric Day Hospital at UMMC Midtown Campus is an all-day program for individuals seeking intensive mental health treatment. The PHP includes Psych OT services to assist individuals with addressing symptom management, stress management, and successful participation in tasks inside and outside the home. Psych OTs works closely with the PHP treatment team to ensure patients are receiving quality services and support.
Consult Liaison (CL)
CL services focus on providing individual treatment to patients on medical units who are experiencing mental health symptoms impacting their recovery. Psych OTs help to promote independent functioning by assisting patients with adapting to changes in their responsibilities and routines, managing stress or emotional difficulties, enhancing engagement in meaningful activities, and problem-solving through challenges experienced.
Education and Training
We train students from various universities in the practice of psychiatric occupational therapy.
Contact Us
Pamela Walker, OTR/L
Manager, Psychiatric Occupational Therapy
Phone: 410-328-6071
Pamela.walker@umm.edu