Faces of Caring: Meet Nikki Jefferson
We’re excited to introduce Faces of Caring, a new series that gives you a chance to get to know the people of Concept Rehab beyond their job titles.
We’re kicking things off with Nikki Jefferson, COTA/L, Occupational Therapist Assistant. We asked Nikki a few questions about her career and what she enjoys outside of work. Here’s what she had to say.
How many years have you worked in therapy?
I have been a COTA for 17 years and with Concept Rehab for 1 year.
Why did you decide to work in therapy? Prior to becoming a therapist I didn’t even know occupational therapy existed. I was on a college tour when I was introduced to the department. I instantly fell in love with the idea of helping people regain their independence and get back to the things they loved to do through the creativity of occupational therapy.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
The thing I love most about being a COTA is being able to interact with my patients and learn what they enjoy most about life. Being able to help my patients regain their strength and independence and be successful towards their goals is the greatest reward of my job.
What’s one patient success you’ll never forget?
One patient success that stands out to me in the past year I’ve been working with Concept Rehab was being able to work with a patient who suffered from a pretty severe stroke. When he was first admitted he was unable to walk or use his left upper extremity. Over the course of working with him he was able to come out of his shell more and share with us how he wanted to be able to return home and travel to Florida for the winters with his spouse. He was able to improve with his goals and return home.
What’s something you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and being in nature. We love to go camping and I have a goal to visit all 63 national parks.
We loved getting to know Nikki a little better and sharing her story as our first Faces of Caring feature. Stay tuned as we continue introducing the people making a difference every single day with Concept Rehab!