As a high school student, Rachel Williams always wanted to be a nurse. There was just one thing standing in her way – she hated needles!
But then she discovered occupational therapy and it was the perfect fit.
“It’s both creative, problem-solving, and active, hands-on,” says Rachel who graduated from Curtin University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) and has been helping people solve everyday challenges ever since.
“I can be relentlessly positive when it comes to helping people achieve their goals. I love being part of their journey to realise their potential and all the possibilities out there for them.”
Sometimes it’s tasks like cooking and cleaning, shopping, or using a mobile phone or computer that Rachel will be helping her clients with. Other times it might be working on home safety or finding ways to enjoy art and craft.
Typically the solutions involve daily living aids, assistive equipment or assistive technology.
“I also really like to explain different problem-solving strategies so that people who are deafblind can use them to come up with their own solutions, independently, in the future,” Rachel says.
“There is a perception among the general population that people with limited hearing and vision cannot lead rich and fulfilling but that’s so not the case.”
Joining SensesWA in 2024 as an Occupational Therapist (OT), Rachel’s focus is on building independence, performance and safety in daily tasks.
Previous experience working as an OT in aged care means she brings an added depth of compassion and understanding to her role.
“I really love working with older adults, getting to hear their stories and finding out about their unique lives,” Rachel says.
“It’s especially rewarding to be able to support people to maintain their independence, increase their quality of life and re-engage in their hobbies and leisure activities.”
Now, as part of the SensesWA team, Rachel is using her skills and training to support older children and teenagers, as well as adults.
“Most people aren’t aware of the range of disability support, services and assistive technology that is available, so when they, or a loved one, experiences a sensory loss, they might not be aware of all the ways a service provider such as SensesWA can help,” Rachel says.
“When we start to work with them and they get to know the possibilities, their whole world can just open up and they start to imagine a much brighter future for themselves.”
About Occupational Therapy at SensesWA
We are dedicated to helping you live a happy and fulfilling life through comprehensive occupational therapy services. Whether you need support at home, in school, or in the community, our OTs are here to assist you. Get in touch today to learn more about how we can support you in achieving your goals.
