Alvin Pineda OTR/L : Pediatric Occupational Therapy and the Importance of Thinking “Outside the Box”

In this fun episode, I am joined by Alvin - also known as "OT.outside.the.box" on insta! He shares his 10+ year journey so far as an occupational therapist - reflecting on the occupational therapy school days, advice for new grad practitioners, numerous workplace settings explored and MOST importantly ... his love for occupational therapy in pediatric settings**If you are currently an occupational therapy student interested in pediatrics or a current OT - curious and looking to switch settings to peds... then this episode is for you!~Follow along on insta ~https://www.instagram.com/ot.outside.the.box/https://www.instagram.com/once_upon_ot/TIMESTAMPS:(1:35) Alvin, what is your occupational therapy story?(4:02) Experience in your occupational therapy program | weekend program & time management(7:47) Fieldwork 2 Experiences(11:03) What piece of advice might you share with someone listening — perhaps going through a difficult or challenging time in their fieldwork 2 rotation?(12:44) Building confidence and taking confident steps | how do I become more confident as an occupational therapist?(17:18) Navigating jobs as a new grad OT| mindset & approach (20:13) subsequent jobs and deciding what’s next for you on the OT journey(26:05) Any advice for new grad occupational therapists starting their career(28:20) How to go about looking for mentorship (31:24) Your current role & lifestyle as a pediatric occupational therapist(35:05) on handling challenging days, tackling burnout, and filling your cup(40:12) Favorite and least favorite parts of your current occupational therapy role(43:57) Most common conditions you see in general  + favorite interventions(47:08) Memorable moments in your day to day work as an OT(49:20) Any advice on sustaining and managing your energy levels in an OT role that requires plenty of play(53:23) Long-term goals as an occupational therapist (55:30) your social media handle — “OT.outside.the.box” — tell us more about your intent and impact you hope to make with the account(58:10) BONUS LIGHTNING ROUND