June 30, 2026

Get to Know | Jordan: From Volunteer to OT Professional

For many, the path to a career in healthcare starts with a single spark of interest. For Jordan, that spark was ignited in high school. “I knew I wanted to work with people,” Jordan shares. “I knew that the work you do as a healthcare professional has the potential to significantly improve the lives of patients, families and communities.”

That ambition led Jordan to the University of Windsor, where she completed an undergraduate degree in Human Kinetics. With sights set on a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy, Jordan knew she needed more than just classroom theory, she needed hands-on experience.

“I reached out to the Manager of the Rehab Unit here at CKHA to ask about volunteering,” Jordan says. “To my luck, they created a role specifically for me.”

For several months, Jordan was a fixture on the Inpatient Rehabilitation unit, shadowing OTs, PTs, and therapy assistants twice a week. It was here that Jordan cultivated the skills that define a great practitioner – active listening, patient empathy, and creative problem-solving.

“That experience was the bridge that helped me get into grad school and reach where I am today,” Jordan notes. “I couldn’t recommend volunteering here enough.”

More Than Just Rehab

“I have been at CKHA for three and a half years now,” said Jordan. “My current role at CKHA is Occupational Therapist on Inpatient Psychiatry.” When asked what the most common misconception about Occupational Therapy is, Jordan explains, “people think it’s just physical rehabilitation. In reality, it’s a holistic profession that tackles mental health, cognitive function, and environmental factors.”

In her day-to-day work on the Inpatient Psychiatry unit, Jordan focuses deeply on restoring functional independence. This involves assisting patients with rebuilding crucial life skills, restoring social skills, and managing their symptoms so they can engage in meaningful daily occupations. A major part of her role includes helping patients develop and enhance coping strategies, as well as structuring daily routines to ensure a successful and safe transition home from the hospital back into the community for ongoing treatment and support.

For Jordan, the impact of this work is deeply fulfilling. “Having the opportunity to help others learn and acquire new skills and participate more fully in the activities that give their lives stability, purpose, and joy is very rewarding,” said Jordan.

Because the field is so vast spanning hospitals, schools, family health teams, and community centres, Jordan offers one piece of advice to those looking to pursue a career in healthcare. “Shadow everywhere” Jordan suggests. “Spend time in various settings like rehab, pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, or even home care. It’s the best way to understand the true scope of the profession and find exactly where your passion lies.”

Life Outside the Hospital

When the scrubs come off, you won’t find Jordan sitting still. Whether it’s spending quality time with friends and family, outdoors playing baseball, or going for a run, Jordan stays active. You’re also likely to find her out on the golf course, currently working hard to perfect her short game.