Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Outpatient Occupational Therapy Vocational Services
Rehabilitative Services
Outpatient Occupational Therapy Vocational Services provides support to those who are experiencing barriers in gaining / returning to work (paid / unpaid) or school as the result of physical and /or cognitive impairments from injury or illness, including brain injury.  This service is intended for those who require extra supports for returning to school / work outside of what can be offered through Primary Care Practitioners or Employer / Employee Support Program / Human Resource support.
Services provided include:
  • Assistance in determining readiness to return to work / school and other productive roles.
  • Collaborating with employers, education programs, training facilities, government departments, insurance providers, and community agencies to assist individuals in returning to work and school. Including:
    • Identifying barriers to returning to work or school
    • Recommending work / academic accommodations / modifications as appropriate.
  • Consulting with other health professionals to identify resources to meet needs.
  • Assisting individuals in exploring resources for education / training and technical aids.
If you are looking to retrain or explore other employment opportunities, this service does not provide vocational / career counselling. If you are seeking career counselling, you will be connected with community resources that provide this service (e.g. Nova Scotia Works Employment Service Centers). Once an employment opportunity is identified, ABI OT Vocational Services will work with you to develop an appropriate plan that matches your current functional abilities.

Locations

Nova Scotia Rehabilitation and Arthritis Centre
1341 Summer Street, Level 6
Halifax, Nova Scotia. B3H 4K4
Fax: 902-473-1384

How do I access the Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Outpatient Occupational Therapy Vocational Services?

Referrals are accepted from healthcare practitioners attached to the Rehabilitation and Supportive Care Portfolio within Nova Scotia Health using the Outpatient OT Vocational Services Referral Form. Referrals can be faxed to 902-473-1384.

To be eligible for Vocational Services you must be:

  • 16 years of age or older
  • Diagnosed with an acquired brain injury (e.g. traumatic brain injury, stroke, brain tumor, meningitis / encephalitis, lack of oxygen to the brain)
  • Medically and psychiatrically stable
  • Living within Nova Scotia
  • A current patient with a Rehabilitation and Supportive Care service
  • Ready and willing to work with the Occupational Therapist (OT) to reach the goals agreed upon
  • Must not be engaged in harmful use of substances like alcohol or drugs that could interfere with progress towards vocational goals

How do I prepare for my first visit with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Outpatient Occupational Therapy Vocational Services?

You will receive a letter with your appointment time and location, as well as information on how to prepare for the appointment.

What will happen during my appointment?

The Occupational Therapist (OT) will ask you questions about your social, education and work history, and financial supports. They will complete an assessment of your functional abilities through a variety of ways. They will assess essential work duties and develop a return to work plan in collaboration with you, your employer, other health professionals, and community resources as needed.

Will there be any follow up?

Near the end of your time with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) outpatient Occupational Therapy Vocational Services, they will discuss the need for follow up whether you should be referred to other services.

Documents and forms

Outpatient Occupational Therapy Vocational Services Referral Form (.pdf)

Learn more