CBIS Spotlight: Charlene Iroanya
Categories: ACBIS Insider, Professionals
Charlene graduated in 2010 from Texas Southern University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health & Kinesiology. She became an occupational therapist (OT) after graduating from Samuel Merritt University with a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) in 2015. In 2023 Charlene was awarded her post-professional occupational therapy doctorate (OTD) degree from Marymount University.
Charlene is Neuro-IFRAH Certified (2016), LSVT-BIG certified (2019), a certified brain injury specialist (2020), and a certified neuro-specialist (2021). Practicing as an occupational therapist since 2016 in greater Houston, Texas, Charlene has experience in acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient neuro-setting. She joined TIRR Memorial Hermann in 2022.
What made you choose a career in brain injury? Why are you passionate about BI?
I chose a career in brain injury because of my interest in improving pts occupational performance after an injury that has impacted all aspects of their life. Occupational therapists are in a unique position with our scope of practice to significantly improve their quality of life through our holistic lens that we practice from.
What are some of your strategies and suggestions for brain injury professionals when it comes to managing stress and/or burnout?
When working with this population, you have to remind yourself that this person is in the recovery process after a catastrophic life event, and every interaction they have with a provider can significantly impact their life. You can use this awareness to remind yourself during stressful moments or challenging situations that we are in a place of privilege with our interaction with our patients and recognize that we should move with intention and take a step back if we feel we may not be able to be sensitive to their needs.
How has the field of brain injury changed in your time working?
The field has changed due to innovation through science and medicine and awareness of different transitions that patients go through in their recovery. Additionally we have significantly more technology at our disposal to aid in providing salient and intentional interventions.
Why is having a CBIS important to you? How is it helpful in your daily work?
This certification is important because it shows my dedication and interest in the field and it is a daily reminder to stay abreast to the advancement of research and intervention strategies that can advance OT in brain injury recovery.
What recommendations would you make regarding engaging CBIS and CBISTs and encouraging them to maintain their certification?
It establishes you as an expert, demonstrates your interest in persons with brain injuries recovery, and influences continued education in brain injury.