I have worked in therapeutic settings since 1999. These varied settings and roles have enabled me to develop a broad skill-base prior to, during and on completion of my Occupational Therapy qualification. 
Prior to qualifying, my study involved completion of five occupational placements that enhanced my academic learning and afforded the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience prior to undertaking professional practice. My Final Year Emerging Role placement involved development of therapeutic services within Help For Heroes Facility at Tedworth House Personnel Recovery Centre. This placement allowed me to facilitate and aid the recovery process of the veteran client group, whilst developing and promoting the use of a sensory room and the sensory profile. 
Since qualifying as an Occupational Therapist I have gained valuable experience across a range of settings. These include work with Acute Adult Mental Health, providing assessment and intervention with clients experiencing a range of mental health difficulties. I also worked with Brain Injury Outreach Team, providing input for community-based clients who had newly acquired brain injuries and were referred from an inpatient facility. 
My recent posts have involved occupational therapy input, management and clinical leadership with charitable organisations focusing on emergency service and armed forces personnel. Through this work, I have developed knowledge, understanding and skills around Post Traumatic Stress symptoms and associated mental, physical and social difficulties. I am the recipient of a Dorset Healthcare Heroes award for being a learning organisation, this is an award that is nominated by colleagues. 
I am a believer in lifelong learning and commit a significant amount of my personal time to continuing professional development. This has been an interest since my first experience of therapeutic settings. In 1999, during work within Forensic Learning Disabilities Service, I became an Instructor in Therapeutic Management of Aggression and Violence. I am an Accredited Mental Health First Aid Instructor Member. I have also completed an online CBT course for therapists through the online provider Udemy. I am involved with PentUp Foundation Recovery Through Sport venture as a therapeutic mentor. I have also competed in three of the organisation’s Modern Pentathlon events.