WA Occupational Therapy Association

geat2GO Program 23/5/2024 (OTIHS Int Group)
2024-05-23 07:15 - 08:30 (Australia/Perth)
geat2GO Program – OT Services in the Home Interest Group
Our next OT Services in the Home Interest Group will be presented by Emily Bennison, Occupational Therapist working in the geat2GO program for Indigo Solutions. Emily will present an overview of the geat2GO program and will also cover understanding and prescribing using HCP emergency funding. Emily will provide information on the personal alarm options under the national geat2GO funding program and advise of issues that commonly arise in prescription. There will be an opportunity for questions so please bring along your GEAT related queries.
Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

Hand Interest Group PD 27.5
2024-05-27 17:30 - 19:30
The WAOTA Hand Interest Group’s first meeting of 2024 is schedule for Monday 27th May 2024 from 5:30 – 7:30pm and will be conducted via Zoom. We’re excited to announce the following three insightful presentations:

Desiree (Desi) Bernhardt from Handworks will delve into a literature review focusing on trigger finger injuries.
Lauren Bland, also a hand therapist at Handworks, will share her literature review on the conservative management of scaphoid fractures.
Renee Lemi will discuss nail bed injuries. Having completed her presentation during her fourth-year placement at Handworks in 2023, Renee has since joined Jaslyn Cullen Occupational Therapy as a graduate therapist.

Each presentation will cover relevant anatomy and explore evidence-based practices for assessment and treatment.
Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
We hope to see you online!
Book Online

Workplace Rehab Interest Group-Psychological Worksite Assessments-29th May
2024-05-29 16:45 - 18:00
Presenters: Rozanne Biddle and Patrina Bosso – Psychological Worksite Assessments
Rozanne Biddle is an occupational therapist with over 25 years’ experience in injury management and workplace rehabilitation in Perth and Melbourne. Her first job, after graduating from Curtin University in 1996 was with CRS Australia, where she had completed her 4th year prac. Rozanne has worked with several workplace rehabilitation providers, large employers as an injury management advisor and as a rehabilitation claims consultant for a life insurer.
Rozanne has extensive experience in working with clients with mental health conditions and their treatment providers, including working as an occupational therapist in forensic psychiatry in London. She has also worked as a tutor at Curtin University delivering the Ergonomics and Safety Science unit in second year where there was a focus on learning the requirements of comprehensive workplace assessments.
Patrina Bosso is a registered Psychologist specialising in providing psychological intervention and therapeutic guidance in the non-compensable and compensable injury space, as well as working with corporate clients including ASX200 companies and C-suite executives.
Patrina has 7 years of experience within occupational rehabilitation and corporate recovery, as well as twenty years of professional experience including the facilitation of tailored coaching programs to executives and managers, delivering workshops on workplace wellbeing and early intervention, psychometric tests, personnel selection, workplace mental health support (Employee Assistance Programs and counselling), and vocational redeployment.
Patrina has a Bachelor of Psychological Science from the University of Queensland, a Graduate Certificate of Business from the University of Queensland, and Applied Psychology Certification from the Australian College of Applied Psychology and is an Associate Member of the Australian Psychological Society.
Date: Wednesday, 29th May 2024
Time: Registration 4:45pm – Presentation 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Location: Online
RSVP: By 22nd May 2024
Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

June Student PD 20th June
2024-06-20 18:30 - 19:30 | Curtin University (building/room TBA)
Disability and the NDIS
WAOTA Student Committee is pleased to present Disability and the NDIS.
Thursday 20th June 2024 at 6:30pm
Presenters
Hayley Nasi, a Senior Occupational Therapist at Superyou Therapy in Bassendean, has 2.5 years of experience in the disability sector. She specialises in assistive technology, Complex Home Modifications and Specialised Disability Accommodation. Hayley identifies as Autistic or “Neurospicy”. Her personal experiences enhance her ability to support clients’ diverse needs and goals.
Sandy Lin is a Speech Pathologist at Superyou Therapy in Fremantle with 8 years of experience in Taiwan and Australia. A late-diagnosed AuDHDer, Sandy is passionate about helping neurodiverse individuals thrive. She focuses on empowering ND people to discover their strengths and confidently navigate their environments.
Joni Howell, Clinical Manager at Superyou Therapy, has 18 years of experience as a Speech Pathologist. Specialising in pediatric care, she also supervises Occupational Therapists. As a parent of a neurodivergent child, Joni is dedicated to promoting awareness, acceptance, and advocacy for neurodiverse individuals.
Join us at our professional development event to learn from these dedicated experts and their unique insights into supporting individuals with disabilities
Date: Thursday 20 June 2024
Time: 6:30pm
Location: Curtin University, Bentley Campus. Room : 402:327
Cost: $5 for Members , $10 for Non-members
WAOTA Members (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

Workplace Rehab Interest Group-Managing Difficult Conversations-Workers and Employers-18th July
2024-07-18 16:15 - 17:30
Presenter: Chris Mather
Chris Mather is an experienced professional in the vocational rehabilitation and return to work industry, with a specialisation in managing difficult conversations between workers and employers. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by both parties, Chris brings a unique perspective and valuable insights to the table. Throughout their career, Chris has successfully facilitated numerous conversations and negotiations, helping workers and employers find common ground and reach mutually beneficial solutions. Their expertise lies in creating a safe and constructive environment where open and honest dialogue can take place, fostering understanding and collaboration. As a passionate advocate for vocational rehabilitation and return to work, Chris is dedicated to empowering individuals and promoting healthy and productive working relationships. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights and practical tools to navigate challenging workplace situations with confidence. Chris is excited to share his knowledge and experience with you during the upcoming PD session on ‘Managing Difficult Conversations – Workers and Employers.’
Date: Thursday 18th July 2024
Time: Registration 4:15pm – Presentation 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Location: Online
RSVP: By 11th July 2024
Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

Student PD 24th July
2024-07-24 18:00 - 19:00 | Zoom Online
Student PD 24th July
WAOTA Student Committee is pleased to present OT in Vision Impairments and Sensory Issues
Wednesday 24th July 2024 at 6:00pm
Presenters
Jemila Kanu – Over her 12 years of experience, Jemila has had the pleasure of working in private, government and community health clinics. Her passion and speciality is in Paediatric Ophthalmology, Neuro-Ophthalmology and childhood development and Low Vision Rehabilitation and has led her to work closely with families with children diagnosed with Cerebral Vision Impairment (CVI) to provide early childhood orthoptic interventions. She specialises in ophthalmic ocular disease, strabismus diagnosis and management and neuropathology. Jemila graduated in 2011 with a Bachelor of Health Science, and completed a Master of Orthoptics and Ophthalmology Sciences.
Ruth Leong – Ruth has worked primarily as an Occupational Therapist in a variety of community settings in Sydney and Perth and as a case manager at Princess Margaret Hospital. Ruth has developed a keen interest in Cerebral Vision Impairment (CVI) as she came across an increasing number of clients with low vision and the impact on their daily activities. Ruth graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) and completed a Master in Public Health.
Emily Truswell – Emily is passionate about improving the quality of life for children with complex disability, particularly in the field of dual sensory disability/deafblindness. She is currently working at Kinetic Kids WA. Emily has a Bachelor of Science (Occupational Therapy) and completed a Master of Disability Studies (Sensory Disability).
Date: Wednesday 24 July 2024
Time: 6:00pm
Location: Online
Cost: $5 for Members , $10 for Non-members
WAOTA Members (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

OT Services in the Home Interest Group PD
2024-07-25 07:30 - 08:30
OT Services in the Home Interest Group
For our next interest group we are joined by Keearny Maher, Senior Occupational Therapist from VisAbility.
Keearny will provide an overview of services and assistive technology for People with Vision Impairments. Keearny has worked with VisAbility since 2014 and has worked in the disability community space for most of her career.
Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

Student PD 22nd August
2024-08-22 18:30 - 20:00 | Curtin University 108:118
Student PD 22nd August
WAOTA Student Committee is pleased to present New Graduate Experience
Thursday 22nd August 2024 at 6:30pm
Presenters
Josephine Sauzier: Josephine graduated in 2023 from Curtin University. After graduating, she did some contracting work developing an aquatic OT program for Swimming on the Spectrum while she applied for full time work in a hospital. Currently, Josephine works at Fiona Stanley and her current rotation is in the State Rehab Service’s neurological ward. Josephine completed a rural and international placement in her fourth year of university.
Ashby Gordon: Ashby graduated from Curtin university in 2023. She currently works as a Rehabilitation Consultant at APM Workcare assisting injured workers return to work following a physical or psychological workplace injury. Ashby completed her university placements in a rural hospital, pediatrics and community aged care focusing on equipment prescription and home modifications.
Date: Thursday 22 August 2024
Time: 6:30pm – 8pm
Location: OT building 108.118:FF
Cost: $5 for Members , $10 for Non-members
WAOTA Members (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with AHPRA requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

Hand Interest Group PD 27.8
2024-08-27 17:30 - 19:30 | Zoom Online
The WAOTA Hand Interest Group is pleased to invite you to our second meeting of the year on Tuesday 27th August 2024 via Zoom from 5:30pm – 7:30pm.
We’re excited to announce the following three presentations from Specialised Hand Therapy:

ULFI vs DASH assessments – Peter Lum
Functional Assessment of Handwriting – Jessica Chan
Post-op management of ORL repairs – Jessica Mirabile

Kind Regards, Bryce Marshall and Catie Bott, Occupational Therapists, HIG Convenors
Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Please be aware that, due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with AHPRA requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

Workplace Rehab Interest Group-ARPA Award Winning Case Studies-21st November
2024-11-21 16:15 - 17:30 | Virtually Online
Presenters: Gill Yates, Frances Parkhowell and Elise Parker
Gill Yates – Outstanding Achievement in Return to Work Award (Psychological Claim)
An Occupational Therapist with extensive experience in physical and psychological injuries, specializing in veteran rehabilitation. Her case study involved a 55-year-old former naval marine technician with PTSD and Major Depressive Disorder. Despite significant barriers, Gill guided the client through a non-return to work program, vocational assessment, and goal setting, ultimately helping him secure employment in project management with a salary comparable to his naval pay.
Frances Parkhowell – Outstanding Consultant Awards (Same Employer)
A Rehabilitation Consultant at Recovre since 2022, Frances brings a diverse background including geology and entrepreneurship to her recent transition into occupational therapy. Her case study focused on a worker with a serious ankle injury who was initially reluctant to return to work. Through facilitation of specialist case conferences, addressing safety footwear concerns, and resolving underlying fears, Frances helped the worker return to normal duties earlier than expected.
Elise Parker – Outstanding Achievement in Return to Work Award (Physical Claim)
A Rehabilitation Counsellor and Injury Management Consultant with over 16 years of experience across various industries. Her case study involved a 37-year-old Communications Technician who sustained a complex, traumatic injury to her left arm. Despite a 31-month recovery period and significant permanent impairments, Elise assisted the worker in redeploying to a new role with her pre-injury employer that accommodated her restrictions, resulting in successful long-term employment on a FIFO roster.
Date: Thursday 21st November 2024
Time: Registration 4:15pm – Presentation 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Location: Online
RSVP: By 14th November 2024
Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

Hand Interest Group PD 25.11
2024-11-25 17:30 - 19:30
The WAOTA Hand Therapy Interest Group is pleased to invite you to our third meeting of the year on Monday 25th November via Zoom from 5:30pm – 7:30pm.
We’re excited to announce the following three presentations from Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital OT Hand & Upper Limb Clinic:

Metacarpal head fractures and management – Chani van Swet
Triquetral fractures: a review of the literature and therapeutic considerations – Taya Klisowski
Hand therapy scope of occupational therapists in a tertiary hospital emergency department – Bec Kevill

Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Please be aware that, due to changes in the WAOTA policies, only WAOTA members will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending the meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
We hope to see you online!
Book Online

Hand Interest Group PD 17.02
2025-02-17 17:30 - 19:30 | Zoom Online
The WAOTA Hand Therapy Interest Group is pleased to invite you to our first meeting of the year on Monday 17th February 2025 via Zoom from 5:30pm – 7:30pm.
We’re excited to announce the following three presentations from RediMed:

FCR/FCU repairs – Rebecca Anderson
Distal bicep repairs – Caitlin Pryce
PIP joint replacements – Thisbe Armanasco

Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Please be aware that, due to changes in the WAOTA policies, only WAOTA members will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending the meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
We hope to see you online!
Book Online

OT Services in the Home Interest Group PD 27.2.2025
2025-02-27 07:30 - 08:30 | Virtually Online
OT Services in the Home Interest Group
Our first interest group presentation for the year will be from Occupational Therapist Faye Baker from Osborne Park Hospital. Faye will provide an overview of the services provided by OT with a focus on outpatient clinics. She will discuss inclusion criteria, program content, outcomes, and referral pathways.
Faye has 8 years of experience across residential aged care, community home visiting and outpatient rehabilitation and has a passion for falls prevention and promoting patient centred care. Faye currently works in the OPH / SCGH falls clinic as a senior Occupational Therapist where she provides targeted falls prevention education and interventions for community dwelling older adults through a collaborative multidisciplinary approach.
Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

OT Services in the Home Interest Group PD 29.5.2025
2025-05-29 07:30 - 08:30 | Virtually Online
OT Services in the Home Interest Group
Topic: The importance, impact and intervention for sexual engagement
Presented by Simone Collins and Sarah Morrey
Simone and Sarah are experienced Senior Occupational Therapists specialising in assistive technology at Indigo. They have a wealth of knowledge about an often forgotten and ignored area of occupational engagement, sexual engagement. In this 1-hour presentation they will discuss the importance, impact, and intervention options for sexual engagement for people living with disability and ageing conditions.
Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

Hand Interest Group PD 3.06.25
2025-06-03 17:30 - 19:30 | Virtually Online
The upcoming WAOTA Hand Therapy Interest Group PD is on Tuesday 3rd June 2025 via Zoom from 5:30pm – 7:30pm.
The WAOTA HIG will be running a PD on the 3rd of June and will involve presentations from two senior therapists. The presenters will be Nandi Reynders, a Senior Hand Therapist from Hand Works who will be presenting on trigger thumb and current research surrounding its treatment, and Jocasta Lilleyman, a Senior Hand Therapist from InHand who will be presenting on carpal tunnel syndrome.
Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Please be aware that, due to changes in the WAOTA policies, only WAOTA members will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending the meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

Hand Interest Group PD 4.08.25
2025-08-04 17:30 - 19:30 | Virtually Online
The WAOTA Hand Therapy Interest Group is pleased to invite you to our third meeting of the year on Monday 4th August via Zoom from 5:30pm – 7:30pm.
We’re excited to announce the following three presentations from HULC:

Central slip injuries with a focus on Boutonniere’s deformity – Claire Miotti and Lucy Barrett
New findings on cubital tunnel syndrome – Daniela Lasser
Tennis and golfers elbow – Yvette Ladner

Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Please be aware that, due to changes in the WAOTA policies, only WAOTA members will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending the meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online

OT Services in the Home Interest Group PD 7.08.2025
2025-08-07 07:30 - 08:30 | Virtually Online
OT Services in the Home Interest Group
Topic: The Role of Occupational Therapy in Palliative Care
Presented by Anthony Hartland
For the August OT Services in the Home Interest Group we are pleased to be joined by Occupational Therapist Anthony Hartland who will discuss the role of Occupational Therapy in palliative care.
Anthony is an Australian trained Occupational Therapist, with 30 years international and local experience in a diverse range of clinical areas and management, including hospital, community, hospice, not for profit and private practice. Anthony currently works as the Senior Occupational Therapist with the WACHS Bunbury Community Palliative Care Team. Anthony will provide an overview of the Occupational Therapy role in palliative care and the focus on living well until death. He will also provide an update on Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) in WA.
We hope you can join us on Thursday 7th August for his presentation and the opportunity for questions and discussions.
Cost:
WAOTA Members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $20.00
Due to recent changes in the WAOTA policies, members only will receive a Certificate of Attendance after attending this meeting. Non-members are encouraged to retain their receipt and complete a written reflection on the PD session in accordance with Ahpra requirements for continuing professional development.
Book Online
