REGISTRATION PROVES COMPETENCY

As members become registered, there has been a greater recognition of our professionalism and competency in the workplace. More often we are being asked for our practicing certificate. It brings us closer to getting recognized as a health professional such as Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapist, rather than the person who provides activities.

When you become a Registered Diversional Therapist you will have had to prove that: –

  • You have gained the National Certificate in Diversional Therapy.
  • You work within the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the NZ Society of Diversional Therapists.
  • You have completed a minimum of 3000 hours working in the field of Diversional Therapy.
  • You have been a member of the Society for a minimum of ONE year.

You will also have to have proved your competency to your supervisor or manager to get a reference from them. All this proof is then sent to the Registration Board who will look at it to make sure that you reach the standards expected of a Registered Diversional Therapist.

To retain registration you have to renew it every two years proving that you are: –

  • Continuing to practice to an acceptable level.
  • Continuing to access ongoing education, particularly in the field of Diversional Therapy. That you attend local support groups and/or conferences to improve the value of the service you give to your clients.
  • Prepared to help in the teaching/supervising of new activity people.
  • Participate in new initiatives in your workplace, on a local level or on a national level.

All this might seem like a lot of hard work but it is your proof to your Manager or a prospective employer that you are a valuable asset to your workplace.

It is one thing to say that you have worked in the field for the last 10, 15, or 20 years, it is quite another to be able to say that you are a Registered Diversional Therapist and have the certificate to prove it.

All registered members should have a Registered Badge. The badge is numbered can be verified by using our Verify a Diversional Therapist function.