Amanda Wilgus: A Dedicated Occupational Therapist on the Path to Certified Hand Therapist (CHT)

Occupational therapy is a rewarding field focused on helping individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life through purposeful activities and rehabilitation. One rising professional making an impact in this field is Amanda Wilgus, MSOT, OTR/L, a full-time outpatient occupational therapist based in Delaware. Amanda is on a determined path toward becoming a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT), demonstrating her commitment to specialization and excellence.

In this article, we will examine Amanda Wilgus’s education, professional journey, key experiences, and certifications that have shaped her career. From her academic roots at Thomas Jefferson University to her hands-on roles at Bayhealth and other notable organizations, Amanda exemplifies the dedication and skill necessary in today’s healthcare environment.

Who is Amanda Wilgus?

Amanda Wilgus is an occupational therapist who currently practices full-time in an outpatient setting. She holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) and is a licensed Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR). Amanda’s career is marked by varied clinical experiences across prestigious institutions and internships, along with her ongoing pursuit to become a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT). This credential denotes advanced expertise in hand therapy.

Amanda’s journey is a prime example of a motivated healthcare professional combining education, hands-on training, and licensure to build a robust foundation in occupational therapy.

Education: Building a Strong Foundation

Amanda Wilgus’s academic journey began at the University of Delaware, where she earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Health Sciences with a concentration in Occupational Therapy. This undergraduate education provided Amanda with the scientific and theoretical knowledge essential for a career in rehabilitation and therapy.

Following her bachelor’s degree, Amanda advanced her training by enrolling at Thomas Jefferson University, a well-respected institution known for its strong occupational therapy program. At Thomas Jefferson University, Amanda pursued and completed a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) between 2021 and 2023. This graduate degree is essential for occupational therapists seeking clinical and specialized practice, offering comprehensive coursework and clinical rotations that prepare students to meet the diverse needs of patients.

Licenses & Certifications: Professional Credentials

Upon completing her graduate education, Amanda obtained her Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR) credential through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). The OTR is a nationally recognized certification that demonstrates Amanda’s knowledge and commitment to professional standards in occupational therapy.

In addition to her national certification, Amanda holds a state license from Delaware, which authorizes her to practice occupational therapy within the state. These credentials are essential in ensuring that Amanda meets regulatory requirements and upholds the highest standards of care.

Her current goal of becoming a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) will further specialize her skills. The CHT credential is prestigious and requires additional clinical experience and examination, with a focus on conditions affecting the hand and upper extremity. Pursuing this certification highlights Amanda’s dedication to mastering a critical area of occupational therapy.

Professional Experience: A Path Through Diverse Clinical Settings

Amanda’s career encompasses a diverse range of clinical experiences, including internships and professional roles, which have prepared her to work competently with a broad spectrum of patients.

Bayhealth: Full-Time Occupational Therapist

Since January 2024, Amanda has been working full-time as an occupational therapist at Bayhealth in Milford, Delaware. Bayhealth is a prominent healthcare provider known for its comprehensive services and patient-centered care. In this outpatient role, Amanda engages with patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, and chronic conditions, applying therapeutic interventions to enhance function and independence.

Working at Bayhealth enables Amanda to apply her academic training and fieldwork experiences in a fast-paced clinical environment, where she provides direct patient care and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams.

Independence Fitz You: Level IIB Fieldwork Internship

Before starting at Bayhealth, Amanda completed a Level IIB fieldwork internship at Independence Fitz You in West Chester, Pennsylvania. This internship, which lasted from April to June 2023, provided her with valuable hands-on experience treating patients in outpatient settings.

Magee Rehabilitation: Level IIA Fieldwork Internship

In early 2023, Amanda undertook a Level IIA fieldwork placement at Magee Rehabilitation in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Magee is well-regarded for its rehabilitation services, including neurological and orthopedic care. This opportunity enabled Amanda to develop skills working with complex patient populations in a multidisciplinary setting.

Thomas Jefferson University: Graduate Assistant

Amanda also served as a Graduate Assistant at Thomas Jefferson University for over a year, from September 2021 to September 2022. This role allowed her to deepen her knowledge, assist faculty, and gain experience in academic and clinical settings simultaneously.

Bridging the Gaps: Internship at Hansjörg Wyss Wellness Center

During the summer of 2022, Amanda interned with Bridging the Gaps, a program that addresses disparities in healthcare access. She was placed at the Hansjörg Wyss Wellness Center in Philadelphia, where she worked on rehabilitation and wellness initiatives. This experience underscored Amanda’s commitment to holistic care and health equity.

Other Clinical Experiences

Amanda’s earlier clinical fieldwork also included internships at Encompass Health in Middletown, Delaware, and the Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center in Lansdale, Pennsylvania. These roles further enhanced her exposure to various patient needs and treatment modalities.

Early Work Experience: Leadership and Responsibility

Before fully immersing herself in occupational therapy, Amanda gained valuable skills in leadership and customer service through roles as a lead lifeguard, server, hostess, and lifeguard at various locations in Delaware and Pennsylvania.

• Lead Lifeguard at Dover Air Force Base Oasis Pool
• Amanda managed scheduling, conducted training, and ensured compliance with safety regulations.
• Server and Hostess Roles
• These roles helped Amanda develop communication and interpersonal skills essential for patient interaction.

Such experiences fostered leadership, responsibility, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments, all of which are transferable to healthcare settings.

Amanda Wilgus: A Professional on the Rise

Amanda Wilgus’s educational achievements, rigorous fieldwork, and full-time clinical experience underscore her dedication and skill as an occupational therapist. Her journey from undergraduate education to advanced clinical practice exemplifies the commitment required in healthcare professions.

Pursuing the Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) credential signifies Amanda’s ambition to specialize further and provide expert care in hand and upper extremity therapy, which is crucial for patients with injuries or surgeries affecting these areas.

Amanda’s story is an inspiring example for occupational therapy students and professionals alike, demonstrating how comprehensive education, practical experience, and ongoing certification can lead to a rewarding and impactful career.

Also Read: Empowering Mental Wellness, Inside the Therapy Approach of Emily Chernow, LCSW

Conclusion

Amanda Wilgus stands out as an emerging occupational therapy professional who combines strong academic credentials, diverse clinical experience, and a clear vision for future specialization. Her work at Bayhealth and previous internships illustrate her hands-on expertise and passion for patient-centered care.

With her sights set on becoming a Certified Hand Therapist, Amanda is well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to rehabilitation services, helping patients regain independence and improve their quality of life. Her ongoing growth and dedication make her a notable figure to watch in the field of occupational therapy.