cOnnecT with Patricia Mortenson

cOnnecT with Patricia Mortenson, OT

Paediatric Representative for the CAOT-BC Advisory Committee

Why did you choose occupational therapy as a career?

It was so long ago, but the flexibility of the profession and the focus of helping people in practical, everyday ways was and is still very meaningful for me. 

What is your favourite thing about CAOT-BC?

CAOT-BC connects OTs from all practice areas and corners of the province. It is easy to become myopic in my own practice area, but staying connected to the association keeps me grounded in thinking about the larger perspective of occupational therapy. It is also inspiring to learn about the work OTs are doing in different areas of practice. 

Where have you worked over your career? Where do you work now?

I was very lucky to begin my OT career in a locum position in my ‘dream job’ at BC Children’s Hospital (BCCH) straight out of OT school, and with the exception of a 3 month sole-charge locum position in Campbell River, my clinical work has been entirely at BCCH. I really enjoy working in this dynamic, tertiary, teaching centre environment. There are so many different opportunities for learning and growth, and a strong commitment for excellence in family centred, inter professional care. I am also an instructor with the Rehabilitation Sciences Online Program at UBC, and teach the ‘Evidence for Practice’ course to a variety of working rehabilitation professionals, including OTs.

What do you find most challenging about working as an OT?

The most challenging aspect for me about working as an OT is keeping the focus ‘doable’. Many of the children I work with have multiple occupational and environmental needs, and even after prioritizing these with families, there is often a long list of potential OT issues to address. The top priority issues are often dictated by system and funding limitations, which can be frustrating for everyone.

If you are a volunteer for CAOT-BC, why do you do it?

I am just starting in the new position of paediatric practice representative on the CAOT-BC Advisory Committee. Having worked at BC Children’s Hospital for many years I have many connections throughout the paediatric OT community in BC and this position provides the perfect opportunity to advocate for our collective OT needs for children and youth in BC. I have observed the excellent work CAOT-BC has done to support other areas of practice and I am hoping to raise the profile and network of paediatric practice.

Tell me about someone who has influenced your occupational therapy practice.

Susan Garret, past CAOT BC board member and recently retired OT professional practice leader, has had a tremendous impact on my practice. No matter the day or the agenda, Susan prioritized the needs of “her people” (clients and staff) over administrative or system demands. Ultimately, OT is a caring profession and Susan’s arms were always open. 

What do you do when you aren't working and volunteering?

I keep busy parenting 3 teenagers in different stages of schooling during COVID and volunteering as a Girl Guides of Canada leader with my daughter’s Pathfinder unit (cookies anyone?). As a new COVID activity, I joined a socially distanced hand bell choir(!) and have been cycling A LOT all over Vancouver.  

#OT365