Written by Chloe Debono
Hi, I’m Chloe. I’m just about to complete my third year of study in the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at the Port Macquarie campus.
If you had asked me what Occupational Therapy (OT) was five years ago, I would have had absolutely no clue. Even now, I sometimes find it difficult to explain, simply because OT is such a broad and versatile profession. Occupational Therapists work in so many areas, from physical rehabilitation, to mental health, paediatrics, aged care, and so much more.
Where it started
My first exposure to OT came from awareness by family and friends. Once I had heard about Occupational Therapy, I delved into research about it. I knew I wanted to work in an environment where I can help people and be part of their therapy journey. I had discovered that Occupational therapy, one of the many allied health degrees, has this at its core. I had always enjoyed PDHPE at school and loved learning about how the body works. That is where my spark for wanting to work in healthcare developed.
Why I chose Occupational therapy?
- I wanted to work in a hands-on environment, and help people achieve their goals
- I wanted to help people improve their independence, quality of life, safety and function
- I love the idea of incorporating therapy into everyday activities
- I am a thinker, and OT has that in its core approach, always thinking of different ways to approach, adapt, and intervene
- I value that it’s an area that can assist individuals and communities in so many ways
- It’s so rewarding to know that what you’re learning can have a real impact on someone’s life
Since studying,
Studying OT has shown me the importance of a holistic and client-centred approach to healthcare, something I find extremely valuable for future practice. This is because it enables clients to be part of their therapy, creating goals that are suitable for them to engage in and achieve.
A definition of Occupational Therapy I have developed through my studies is:
An occupation is anything you do that is meaningful, whether that be brushing your teeth, socialising with someone, understanding your emotions, manipulating objects, or mobilising. An Occupational Therapist, assists in adapting your occupations to make them more accessible, achievable, functional, and safe, ultimately enhancing quality of life.
Thinking of studying OT?
If you are unsure whether Occupational therapy is for you, do your research and explore what is out there.
I couldn’t recommend allied health enough – being able to work with people, support their goals, and help strengthen areas in their life is genuinely amazing.
I hope I have provided an insight into the world of Occupational Therapy, and what I find so valuable about it!
Charlie blog is a SSAF initiative.
