Empowering Lives Through Meaningful Activities: Celebrating Occupational Therapy Week

October 23, 2023

This week is Occupational Therapy Week, a time to acknowledge and celebrate the work they do to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives despite physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges. Occupational therapists play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for people of all ages, helping them engage in meaningful activities and achieve independence. In this blog, we uncover some little-known facts about occupational therapists and shed light on their invaluable contributions to the well-being of countless individuals.


Fact 1: Holistic Approach


Occupational therapists adopt a holistic approach to patient care, focusing not just on the physical aspect of recovery but also on the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of their clients. They work with individuals to identify their unique goals and aspirations, creating personalised treatment plans to address the barriers that prevent them from living life to the fullest.


Fact 2: Across the Lifespan


Occupational therapists work with people of all ages, from infants to the elderly. Whether it's helping a child with developmental delays achieve critical milestones, assisting a stroke survivor to regain their independence, or supporting seniors in maintaining their daily routines despite age-related challenges, occupational therapists are versatile professionals who cater to the diverse needs of their clients.


Fact 3: Home Environment Optimisation


One of the little-known roles of occupational therapists is their knowledge in how to optimise home environments to enhance safety, accessibility, and functionality. They assess clients' living spaces and recommend modifications or assistive devices to promote independent living. This aspect of their work significantly contributes to the well-being and confidence of individuals living with disabilities or recovering from injuries.


Fact 4: Mental Health Advocates


Occupational therapists are instrumental in promoting mental health and well-being. They work with clients to identify coping strategies, manage stress, and engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment. By focusing on the therapeutic use of meaningful activities, occupational therapists empower individuals to navigate life's challenges and improve their mental and emotional resilience.


Fact 5: Return-to-Work Experts


Occupational therapists are skilled in facilitating the return-to-work process for individuals who have experienced injuries or disabilities. They collaborate with employers and employees to create customised return-to-work plans, which may include modifying workspaces, providing ergonomic recommendations, and implementing gradual work reintegration programs.


Fact 6: Innovators in Assistive Technology


Occupational therapists are at the forefront of incorporating assistive technology into their practice. They leverage technological advancements to help clients with disabilities access and participate in daily activities more easily. From specialised computer programs and adaptive devices to cutting-edge robotics, occupational therapists continually explore innovative solutions to enhance their clients' lives.


As we celebrate Occupational Therapy Week, let us recognise and appreciate the dedicated occupational therapists who inspire and transform lives each day. Their commitment to fostering independence, promoting well-being, and embracing the uniqueness of every individual makes them true drivers for positive change. From assisting individuals in their physical recovery to uplifting their spirits and nurturing mental health, occupational therapists bring hope, empowerment, and joy to countless lives.


If you or anyone you know could benefit from working with one of our occupational therapists get in touch.

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Maximising the Benefits of Your Behaviour Support Service

May 6, 2025
Behaviour support services are designed to help individuals reduce risk behaviours and improve their quality of life. A great behaviour support service adopts a person-centred approach, exploring a person's life holistically and focusing on their strengths. At helpz, you can expect your behaviour support practitioner to be neuroaffirming, providing support that respects and values neurological differences. They tailor strategies to align with each individual's unique needs and preferences. To help you maximise the benefits of your behaviour support service, we have put together a comprehensive list of tips and strategies. Set Clear Goals Identify Objectives: Work with your behaviour support specialist to identify specific, measurable goals. This could include reducing challenging behaviours, improving social skills, or increasing independence. Regular Reviews: Regularly review and adjust your goals to ensure they remain relevant and achievable. Engage Actively Participate Fully: Actively participate in all sessions and activities. The more engaged you are, the more you will benefit from the service. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about any aspect of the support plan. Understanding the process is key to success. Be Honest Open Communication: Be honest with your behaviour support specialist about your experiences, challenges, and progress. Transparency helps tailor the support to your needs. Share Concerns: If something isn’t working or you’re facing difficulties, communicate this openly. It allows for timely adjustments to your plan. Collect Data Track Progress: Keep detailed records of behaviours, incidents, and improvements. This data is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of strategies. Use Tools: Utilise any tracking tools or apps recommended by your specialist to make data collection easier and more accurate. Involve Key People Family and Caregivers: Involve family members or caregivers in the process. Their support and understanding can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the service. Collaborate with Professionals: Work with other professionals involved in your care, such as teachers or therapists, to ensure a cohesive approach. Implement Strategies Consistently Follow the Plan: Consistently implement the strategies and techniques recommended by your behaviour support specialist. Consistency is crucial for achieving lasting change. Monitor Progress: Keep track of your progress and any changes in behaviour. This information can help your specialist make necessary adjustments to your support plan. Stay Positive and Patient Celebrate Small Wins: Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Recognising achievements can boost motivation and confidence. Be Patient and Persistent: Behaviour change takes time. Stay patient and persistent, even if progress seems slow. Utilise Resources Educational Materials: Take advantage of any educational materials or resources provided by your behaviour support service. These can offer valuable insights and additional strategies. Support Groups: Join support groups or forums where you can share experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. Provide Feedback Share Your Experience: Provide feedback to your behaviour support service about what is working well and what could be improved. Your input can help enhance the service for you and others. By following these strategies, you can maximise the benefits of your behaviour support service and achieve meaningful, lasting improvements in your behaviour and overall well-being. Learn more about behaviour support here .

Parenting Tools: 5 Ways to Stay Connected to Yourself and Your Wellbeing

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Parenting is a rewarding journey, but it can also be incredibly demanding. Amidst the hustle and bustle, it's crucial to take time for self-care. Here are five essential tips to help you stay connected to yourself and maintain your sanity: Prioritise "Me Time" : Carve out a few minutes each day just for yourself. Whether it's enjoying a cuppa, reading a book, or simply sitting in silence, these moments can recharge your batteries. Stay Active: Physical activity is a great stress reliever. Find an exercise routine that you enjoy, whether it's a brisk walk, yoga, or a dance class. Regular movement can boost your mood and energy levels. Connect with Others: Don't isolate yourself. Reach out to mates, family, or support groups. Sharing your experiences and hearing others' stories can provide comfort and perspective. Practise Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, or journaling can help you stay grounded and present. Set Boundaries: It's okay to say no. Establish clear boundaries to protect your time and energy. Communicate your needs to your family and ensure you have space to recharge. Remember, taking care of yourself isn't selfish—it's essential. By prioritising your well-being, you'll be better equipped to care for your loved ones.  Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine and watch how it positively impacts your life and those around you.

Our Behaviour Support Practitioners Embrace Dr. Ross Greene’s CPS Approach

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At helpz, our behaviour support practitioners are increasingly adopting Dr. Ross Greene's Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS) approach to enhance the quality of life for NDIS clients . CPS is an evidence-based model that focuses on solving the underlying problems causing challenging behaviours rather than merely addressing the behaviours themselves. The CPS approach aligns seamlessly with Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) , a cornerstone of the NDIS framework . PBS is a person-centred approach that aims to improve an individual's quality of life by understanding the reasons behind their behaviour and addressing their needs in a respectful and supportive manner. By integrating CPS, helpz practitioners can proactively identify and solve problems collaboratively with clients, fostering a non-punitive and non-adversarial environment. CPS involves three key steps: identifying lagging skills and unsolved problems, prioritising problems to be solved, and engaging in collaborative problem-solving discussions This method not only reduces challenging behaviours but also builds essential skills such as empathy, communication, and problem-solving. For NDIS clients , this means a more tailored and effective support plan that respects their dignity and promotes their autonomy. By utilising CPS within the PBS framework, helpz practitioners are better equipped to create positive, lasting changes in the lives of NDIS client s . This approach not only addresses immediate behavioural concerns but also empowers clients to develop the skills they need to thrive in their communities. For more information on our behaviour support services, please c ontact us .