Getting Started with Travel Therapy
This blog is originally sourced from Trusted Health, written by Alexandra Harvey-Sprague. Please see the excerpt below or CLICK HERE to view the original content
Choosing my first travel contract was a challenge for me. I was nervous to make the leap to an unfamiliar setting. For my first assignment, I played it a bit safe and chose a familiar setting that I had completed a level II fieldwork in. This gave me the background knowledge I felt I needed to be successful and confident in beginning my travel journey. Since then I have taken assignments in unfamiliar settings, fueled by the confidence I’ve gained as I’ve traveled. I’ve found that each challenge I face becomes a stepping stone, always leading to professional and personal growth opportunities.
So, how do I pick my next adventure in the world of travel OT? Here’s a little peek into my process:
When I’m beginning the process to look for an assignment, I always narrow down my search to a region I’d like to be in next.
I reach out to my preferred agencies and relay my preferences for that contract. I’m sure to communicate whether setting, pay, or a specific state is the priority to me in the upcoming contract.
Length of contract is also something I take into consideration. Most contracts are 13 weeks, frequently with an option to extend. However, some may be to cover a leave of another therapist resulting in different requirements. I just wrapped up a contract that required 6 months minimum, which was a bit longer than standard
Finding my footing through the diverse experiences I’ve had as a travel OT.
I try to balance my personal and professional desires when selecting my next destination, and always take into account cost of living, what I’d like to do in the area, and the pay the contract can offer.
Embracing the Travel OT Lifestyle: My Story
I’ll be honest - pay was a large reason I first decided to begin traveling. The thought of earning enough to help alleviate my student loan debt, while also having the flexibility to take time off to enjoy personal travels and visiting family? Yeah, that was pretty enticing. I’ve doubled my weekly take home pay compared to when I was working my staff job.
However, it’s the people, the places, the experiences that have kept me traveling, assignment after assignment. I feel privileged to have had so many new experiences and moments of growth with my husband and my dog by my side.
With each assignment, new adventures take flight!
Here’s a snapshot of my travel OT scrapbook:
Memory Making: From little moments to big milestones, I’ve created memories to last a lifetime and have crossed many destinations off of my bucket list.
Life-Changing Encounters: I’ve been able to support and educate patients through life altering moments, hold hands in final hours of life, and support families while they navigate their loved ones' diagnoses.
Community Connections: I’ve had the privilege to work with amazing rural communities, the foster system, and various community resources to help increase their outreach and impact.
Each of my experiences with these diverse populations have impacted me and left marks on my heart that I’ll carry with me forever. I feel as though I leave a piece of me in each location I work and live.
