In this episode, we’re diving deep into OT burnout prevention—what it looks like, why it happens, and how we can address it head-on. Whether you’re a seasoned therapist or a student just entering the field, burnout is something we all need to be aware of. But here’s the good news: burnout isn’t inevitable, and there are ways to prevent it.
I’m joined by Deanna M. Ottinger, ppOTD, OTR/L, CAPS, LSVT BIG, Associate Professor at Milligan University in Northeast Tennessee. Deanna shares how her interest in gratitude and stress management began while supporting her graduate students—and how that work can benefit all of us. Her OT passions include neuro rehab, low-end home modifications, and, of course, long walks on the beach.
Key Takeaways:
- 🚨 The early signs and symptoms of burnout
- 🧠 The powerful mindset shifts that can keep you grounded
- 🌬️ How breathwork and mindfulness can calm your nervous system
- 🧰 Practical strategies like micro-breaks, transition rituals, and peer support
If you’re an OT Accelerator member, don’t forget to log in and complete the post-course quiz for a CEU.
This conversation is full of real talk, encouragement, and immediately useful tips to help you care for yourself while you care for others.
🔗 Resources Mentioned:
🍃🍃🍃🍃
Also, be sure to check out the free resources available at OTflourish.com, including quick references, documentation and goal writing guides, treatment ideas, and helpful tools to support you in your OT practice working with older adults.
And if you’re ready to take your practice to the next level, the OT Accelerator is here for you! It’s the #1 resource and OT mentorship community for OT practitioners and students working in geriatric settings. Inside, you’ll get access to evidence-based resources, treatment ideas, and a supportive community to help you feel confident and capable in your practice.
Learn more and join today at OTflourish.com/membership
Connect with OT Flourish:
- Website: OTFlourish.com
- Instagram: @OTFlourish
- Facebook: OT Flourish
👉 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!
Your feedback helps us continue bringing valuable content to the OT community. 🎙️
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
Ridiculous History
History is beautiful, brutal and, often, ridiculous. Join Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown as they dive into some of the weirdest stories from across the span of human civilization in Ridiculous History, a podcast by iHeartRadio.