The Magic of Travel Therapy: Deborra’s Journey as a COTA with Pioneer

For Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) Deborra, travel therapy is more than a career, it’s a way of life. From navigating new cities and work environments to building lasting connections and diving into unfamiliar communities, she has turned the unknown into adventure, growth, and purpose.

“Being a traveler allows me to grow not just professionally, but personally,” she shares. “I’ve built friendships that feel like family and explored towns I never thought I’d call home—even for a few months.”

Living Like a Local

Whether it’s perusing farmers’ markets, discovering local coffee shops, or joining community events, Deborra embraces every new travel journey with curiosity and joy.

“I’m not just working—I’m living. That’s the magic of being a traveler.”

Her most recent travel assignment at a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) was a standout, one that reaffirmed her passion for occupational therapy and deepened her love for the profession.

“This assignment reminded me that occupational therapy is more than a job, it’s a calling. I’m incredibly grateful to Pioneer for giving me this opportunity.”

Deborra’s 8 Tips for Travel Success in SNFs

Deborra shares her top 8 takeaways for fellow OTs and COTAs preparing for new assignments:

1. Know Your Scope – Embrace the OTPF and stay grounded in your role.
2. Prioritize Teamwork – A positive team dynamic enhances care and creates community.
3. Master Productivity Expectations – Work efficiently while keeping patients at the center.
4. Manage Your Time – Use checklists and note blocks to stay organized.
5. Document Clearly – Your notes are your clinical voice—make them count.
6. Stay Flexible – Adapt to diverse patient needs with curiosity and care.
7. Use Therapeutic Use of Self – Real relationships fuel real progress.
8. Lead with Compassion – Patience, creativity, and cultural humility make all the difference.

“Pioneer’s communication and mentorship helped make this one of the most fulfilling chapters in my career.”

Celebrating OT Month and the Power of Travel

As we celebrate OT Month, Deborra’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact occupational therapy professionals make every day, and how travel therapy creates space for both growth and adventure. Whether you’re looking to explore travel occupational therapy, pursue travel nurse opportunities, or discover new horizons through travel healthcare jobs and travel education jobs, Deborra’s story shows how embracing change with the right support system can lead to meaningful transformation.

At Pioneer Healthcare Services, we’re proud to support COTAs like Deborra who are making a difference, one assignment, one patient, and one adventure at a time.