Our names are Carise and Jessica, and we are the new graduate occupational therapists who joined the KFOT team in 2024! We have both really appreciated the level of support we’ve received from the team during our onboarding process. Together, we have thoroughly enjoyed the supportive team environment and the flexibility to take the time to prepare for sessions and complete other tasks.
Carise found she was initially nervous about building rapport with her clients, however has found it’s been going well so far! Her therapy approach using games and play has made establishing therapeutic relationships much easier than she anticipated. Using an ‘All About Me’ worksheet has also been beneficial in understanding her clients’ and likes and dislikes. Interestingly, she even discovered a shared interest in Kpop with one of her clients through this activity!
Before commencing her position as a new graduate Jessica was nervous about the transition between university theoretical learning and practical application as an occupational therapist. However, since starting her journey at KFOT she has found this transition to be much smoother than expected. Jessica has found she has gained confidence and competence in her role by observing experienced therapists techniques and engaging in regular supervision sessions to discuss her caseload and concepts.
We have both found the opportunity to conduct screenings valuable for honing our skills in engaging with children and particularly in improving observation skills and attention to detail. Working alongside experienced OTs during these screenings has provided us with valuable guidance and learning opportunities.
We both believe shadowing other OTs during their sessions has been a fantastic learning experience. We’ve observed their interventions and picked up new skills in interacting with clients and working towards therapy goals, specifically in the clinic environment. We’ve been particularly impressed by their quick-thinking and creativity.
Carise is currently exploring the idea of giving her clients more autonomy around the direction of the session. Empowering children to make decisions during therapy not only helps them develop planning and decision-making skills, but also ensures our sessions remain client-centred. This requires flexibility in session preparation and providing choices to enhance the child’s sense of control.
Additionally, Jessica is continuing to expand her knowledge and practice in the area of play as a therapeutic intervention. Jessica has begun to recognise the importance of following the child's lead through play to assist them to achieve their goals and is excited by the opportunity to engage in professional development in this area in the coming months.
So far, our journey as new graduates at KFOT has been incredibly enjoyable and enriching. The support and guidance we’ve received has been essential in helping me navigate the transition into my role as an occupational therapist. Moving forward, we are both excited to continue exploring innovative ways to engage with my clients and work towards therapy goals. We are very grateful for the opportunity to work at KFOT and are looking forward to growing and developing as occupational therapists to be able to help the children and families we work with to the best of our abilities.