The Occupational Therapist Behind Passion Occupational Therapy
Hello, I’m Parish, an Occupational Therapist originally from Portsmouth, UK and I am now based in the sunny Gold Coast, Australia. With a passion for improving lives, I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals regain confidence and independence by enhancing their well-being. Over the course of my career, I've developed expertise across various domains, including modifications, manual handling, assistive technology, and beyond! I bring nearly a decade of hands-on experience and an infectious enthusiasm to every endeavor.
In addition to my clinical work, I actively support and supervise clinicians through professional development, emphasising the importance of their own mental health and well-being in the field. I firmly believe that true mastery in occupational therapy involves not just technical proficiency but also the cultivation of therapeutic presence and self-awareness.
But that’s not all—I’m also the host of The Passion Occupational Therapy Podcast. Through this platform, I share insights, tips, and stories from the world of occupational therapy. Whether you’re a fellow practitioner, a curious listener, or someone seeking guidance, my podcast offers inspiration, education, and a deeper understanding of this rewarding profession.
My Path to Occupational Therapy
Imagine being a 13-year-old dreaming of becoming a radio DJ, only to face challenges finding work experience in that field. That's where fate intervened in the form of a family friend—a community occupational therapist—who offered me the chance to shadow them for two weeks. Little did I know, those two weeks would change my life forever.
I had never heard of occupational therapy before that experience, but from the moment I stepped into the world of OT, I was captivated. I saw firsthand the profound impact occupational therapists have on people's lives—helping them regain independence, confidence, and joy in everyday activities.
This serendipitous introduction led me to pursue a degree in Occupational Therapy at Coventry University. During my studies, I immersed myself in hospital and community settings, gaining invaluable insights and skills.
After graduating, I knew that my passion lay in community practice. The ability to spend more time with individuals, truly getting to know them, and being invited into their homes and lives—it's a privilege and honor like no other. Community practice allows me to develop deep connections and tailor interventions that make a real difference in people's lives.
I embarked on a rewarding journey with Oxfordshire County Council, starting as a community-based OT and eventually leading teams as a Team Leader. My passion for OT only grew stronger, fueling my desire to make a meaningful difference in people's lives.
In 2021, I took a leap of faith and emigrated to Australia, continuing my mission to empower individuals through community-based OT roles and leadership positions.
Every day, I am grateful for stumbling upon this incredible profession that allows me to blend compassion, creativity, and problem-solving to help others live their best lives.
My OT Mission
At Passion Occupational Therapy, our mission is to redefine the practice of occupational therapy with innovation, integrity, and unwavering dedication. Drawing from nearly a decade of transformative experience, we believe in empowering individuals and communities through personalised, compassionate interventions that prioritise genuine well-being and independence.
Our journey began with a deep desire to challenge the status quo and create a practice that values people over profit. We are committed to supporting and empowering other OTs, believing that collaboration and mutual growth are essential to advancing our profession.
Driven by a passion for creativity and continuous learning, we launched our podcast to bridge gaps in professional development and raise awareness about the impact of occupational therapy. Through this platform, we aim to make valuable knowledge accessible to all and inspire quick boosts of insight during daily commutes.
The name 'Passion Occupational Therapy' embodies our dedication—combining passion for OT with a personal touch that honors family heritage. Our vision is to cultivate a community where everyone feels understood, supported, and inspired to live their best lives.
Join us on this transformative journey as we redefine occupational therapy and make a positive impact, one person, one story, at a time.