During October, occupational therapy students at the Faculty of Human Health and Natural Sciences Khrystyna Betsko and Anastasia Paten, had a unique opportunity to practice their professional skills at the Zevenbergen center in Belgium. This trip was not only a source of valuable professional experience, but also inspired new achievements.
The Zevenbergen center provides occupational therapy services to children, young people and adults with intellectual disabilities. The training allowed the students not only to gain theoretical knowledge, but also to acquire practical skills in interacting with patients.
The warm and welcoming atmosphere, high professionalism of the team made the greatest impression on the students, especially the team’s individual approach to each patient, high competence and desire for innovation. The students had the opportunity to participate in rehabilitation processes testing their knowledge in practice, learn from experienced specialists how to apply innovative approaches in working with patients.
“Among the techniques we got acquainted with during our training, it is worth highlighting “Smoke therapy” – a set of gestures for non-verbal communication; “Relax Beam therapy” – sensory sensations through rhythmic music, special equipment and massage movements; wheelchair dancing; classes in the sensory room and hydrotherapy; puppet theater and activities on the farm”, -says Anastasia Paten.
These innovative practices and multidisciplinary approach allowed the students to better understand the specifics of working with different categories of patients. The Center is well-equipped and it creates comfortable conditions for rehabilitation.
“Thank you “Zevenbergen” for the warm welcome and unforgettable experience! We sincerely thank the university for the opportunity to be in Belgium. This is not only an important step in our professional development, but also a unique chance to broaden our worldview, gain valuable experience and establish international contacts”, – note Anastasia and Khrystyna.
It is worth noting that the hands-on training at rehabilitation centers in Belgium and Romania takes place for the second year in a row and is possible thanks to the financial support of the non-profit organization “Oradea” (Belgium).
