Custom Hand Rails Prescription (external and internal) 15/9 OTSIH
2022-09-15 07:30 - 08:30 (Australia/Perth) | Zoom Online
The next OT Services in the Home Interest Group meeting will take via zoom
Beth Wiggins-Teede will discuss prescription and measurements for custom handrails.
Presenter: Beth Wiggins-Teede
Date: Thursday 15th September 2022
Time: 7:30am – 8:30am
Virtual: Zoom link will be emailed. Please ensure you log on 10 minutes earlier
Cost:
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
Free for WA OT Association members
$10 for non-members.
Book Online

OT Week Breakfast – Keynote Speakers Emma Gee: OT and Stroke Survivor and Annette Barton OAM: Lessons Learnt from OT Through the Ages

Ergonomics 19/9 - Workplace Rehab Interest Group
2022-09-19 17:30 - 18:30 | Custodian Work Assist, Level 1, 188-198 Churchill Ave, Subiaco, WA, 6008
The Workplace Rehabilitation Interest Group are holding there next meeting on Monday 19th September on the topic Ergonomics, presented by Sarah Cliff. The face-to-face PD will be held in Subiaco with free street parking available.

Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
Book Online

OT Week Breakfast – Keynote Speakers Emma Gee: OT and Stroke Survivor and Annette Barton OAM: Lessons Learnt from OT Through the Ages

Hand Interest Group PD 19/9
2022-09-19 17:30 - 19:00 | Zoom Online
The Hand Interest Group are holding there next meeting on Monday 19th September with 3 presenters from InHand Occupational Therapy.
Topics

Elisha Stefanelli: The Floating Elbow – Paediatric Supracondylar Fracture with Ipsilateral Forearm Fractures
Teagan Maloney: Digital Nerve Repair and Rehabilitation
Linda Canty: Latest Update on 1st CMC Osteoarthritis

Time: 5.30pm
Date: Monday 19th September
Location: via zoom, link will be emailed. Please ensure you log on 10 minutes earlier
Cost
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
Free for WA OT Association members
$10 for non-members.
Book Online

OT Week Breakfast – Keynote Speakers Emma Gee: OT and Stroke Survivor and Annette Barton OAM: Lessons Learnt from OT Through the Ages

Geriatric Rehab PD - WAOTA Student Committee 12/10
2022-10-12 18:30 - 20:00 | Zoom Online
WAOTA Students are pleased to welcome Jade Beck as our presenter for our October PD! Jade Beck graduated from Curtin University in 2013 and is currently a senior occupational therapist and occasional acting p3/coordinator at Fremantle Hospital specialising in Geriatric Rehabilitation.
Jade has worked in several clinical areas in the hospital setting over her career. After graduating, Jade worked at OPH for five to six years in geriatric rehab, elective surgery and in leave relieve. She also lived in London for two years where she had the opportunity to receive her first leadership role at the Royal Free Hospital where she was the team lead for a multidisciplinary team for renal and urology roles. Furthermore she worked in the acute medical unit, trauma and orthopaedic wards whilst at Royal Free Hospital. She then returned to Perth and had the chance to work at Fiona Stanley Hospital in general med, ICU and some relief in the state rehab service before going to Fremantle where she covered in stroke rehab before getting her current role.
Time: 6.30pm
Date: 12th October
Location: Via zoom, link will be emailed
Cost
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
WA OT Association members – $5
Non-members – $10
Book Online

Occupational Therapy in Palliative Care 17/11 - OT Services in the Home IG
2022-11-17 07:30 - 08:30 | Zoom Online
Our next Occupational Therapy Services in the Home Interest Group takes place on Thursday November 17th when we will be joined by OT Anthony Hartland for a presentation on OT and Palliative Care. Anthony is an Australian trained Occupational Therapist, with over 25 years’ international experience in a diverse range of clinical areas and management, including hospital, community, hospice, not for profit and private practice. He is currently working with the Bunbury Community Palliative Care Team. His presentation will cover palliative care and allied health – Living well until death and he will also provide an update of 12 months of Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) in WA.
Presenter: Anthony Hartland
Date: Thursday 17th November 2022
Time: 7:30am – 8:30am
Virtual: Zoom link will be emailed. Please ensure you log on 10 minutes earlier
Cost:
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
Free for WA OT Association members
$10 for non-members
Book Online

Elbow Assessment, Trigger Finger and Scaphoid Fractures 16/1 Hand IG
2023-01-16 17:30 - 18:30 | Zoom Online
Please join us for the first Hand Interest Group meeting of 2023. This quarters meeting is kindly presented by Hand, Upper Limb and Physiotherapy unit at RediMed
Topics

Kristie Di Loreto: Elbow Assessment
Alex Esterhuezin: Trigger Finger
Gabby Falco: Management of Scaphoid Fractures

Time: 5.30pm
Date: Monday 16th January
Location: via zoom, link will be emailed. Please ensure you log on 10 minutes earlier
Cost
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
Free for WA OT Association members
$10 for non-members.
Book Online

The Power of Playgroups - The LEaP Playgroup for children with developmental delay and/or disabilities
2023-02-07 18:30 - 20:30 | Virtually Online
Details: Dr Jodie Armstrong’s doctorate focused on developing and evaluating the LEaP therapeutic playgroup for children with developmental delays and/or disabilities. Developed as a ‘first line’ approach for children entering therapeutic services, this model showed to be effective in improving children’s developmental outcomes and increasing parental social support.
Jodie will be presenting on the LEaP playgroup model, key research findings, next steps for LEaP as well as outlining the core components of therapeutic playgroups for therapist wanting to implement such models within their practice.
Date: Tuesday 7th of February
Time: 6.30pm
Presenter: Dr Jodie Armstrong – Occupational Therapist and Researcher
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86745081431

Introduction: Basics of Wheelchair Assessment and Prescription 23/2 OTSIH
2023-02-23 07:30 - 08:30 | Virtually Online
Lisa Ozsdolay, Aged Care Team lead at Indigo presents an introduction into the basics of wheelchair assessment and prescription in the community, including posture, pressure and environmental factors to consider.
Date: Thursday 23rd February
Time: sign in from 7.15am, starts promptly at 7.30am
Location: Virtual
Cost:
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
WAOTA members free
Non-members $10.00
Book Online

Activities of Daily Living Assessments - 28th Feb - Workplace Rehab Interest Group
2023-02-28 17:30 - 18:30 | Virtually Online
Claudia Di Lazzaro is one of the founding directors of Incite Solutions Group with more than 16 years’ experience in the delivery of high-quality services within the vocational rehabilitation industry. Claudia has a Masters of Occupational Therapy and is a qualified Functional Independence Measure (FIM) clinician as well as Physical Work Performance Evaluation (PWPE) practitioner with a broad range of skills across physical rehabilitation, catastrophic injuries, home visiting, mental health and aged care.
Claudia is highly skilled in managing complex cases and delivering discipline specific assessments and services including activities of daily living assessments, aids and equipment prescription, FIM assessments, workplace ergonomics, functional capacity evaluations, work from home assessments, cognitive rehabilitation services, injury education and pain coaching across a range of markets including Department of Veterans’ Affairs and WorkCover. Claudia has a strong focus on delivering quality services and positive outcomes within the relevant customer frameworks whilst recognising the distinct and varying functional needs and goals that each individual service requires.
Date: Tuesday 28th February
Time: 5.30pm – 6.30pm
Location: Virtually (link will be emailed to you)
Cost
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
WAOTA members free
Non-members $10.00
Book Online

OT in Autism PD - WAOTA Student Committee 30/3
2023-03-30 18:30 - 20:00 | Curtin University 108: 119-120
WAOTA Students are excited to welcome Mathew Johnson and Jema Kerrich from Autism Association of Western Australia as our presenters for the first PD of the year!
Mathew Johnson is the manager of school aged therapy and clinical services at Autism Association of Western Australia (11 years and counting!) and has worked as an occupational therapist in the disability field for most of his career. Mathew enjoys being able to input into the growth and development of services, manage the challenge of the NDIS rollout in WA and support therapy staff to become excellent professionals.
Jema Kerrich is an occupational therapist who initially worked in private practice paediatrics with a focus on fine/gross motor skills and handwriting. Jema is now a key therapist in school aged therapy and clinical services at Autism Association of WA and has worked there for 3 years. Jema loves being able to assist children and adolescents to live their life to the fullest and upskill their family, school and community supports to facilitate this. Jema is involved in working on emotional regulation, sensory regulation, understanding their autism, motor skills, social skills and play.
Presenter: Mathew Johnson and Jema Kerrich
Date: Thursday 30th March
Time: 6.30pm
Location: Curtin University, Rooms 108.119/120
Cost:
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
WAOTA members $5.00
Non-members $10.00
Book Online – Tickets strictly limited

Private Practice Paediatrics - WAOTA Student Committee 13/4
2023-04-13 18:30 - 20:30 | Curtin University 108: 119-120
Kate Maskos graduated with the class of 2016 at Curtin University. Over the past 7 years she has worked predominantly in the paediatric sector, and has previously engaged in both clinic and community settings at larger business structures.
She now currently works as a Senior Therapist and Lead at Potion Therapy Support Services, which is her own business that was established in 2022. The driving force to establishing Potion OT was in recognition of the need for a more accessible and personable occupational therapy service that bigger establishments may not be able to provide on demand, and CONNECTION is a huge value upheld in her business structure.
Her area of passion within her scope of practice is social emotional and behavioural support for young children aged from approximately 3 to 12 years of age. However she also supports other functional challenges (such as life skills, mental health, motor skills) and demographics (young adults and adults) within her caseload. Currently her youngest person supported is 2 years of age and her eldest is 64 years of age.
Presenter: Kate Maskos
Date: Thursday 13th April
Time: 6.30pm
Location: Curtin University, Room 108.119/120
Cost
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
WAOTA members $5.00
Non-members $10.00
Book Online – Tickets Strictly Limited
Tickets now open for the WAOTA Inaugural Awards Ball. Why not get your friends together and help celebrate the fantastic work all OTs do within our communities across all regions of WA. The evening promises to be a night filled with laughter and of course plenty of dancing with music from the Esplanade Hotels residents DJ – more information

PRPP for Kids - the Perceive, Recall, Plan, Perform System of Task Analysis and its application to young children
2023-04-17 18:30 - 20:30 | Zoom Online
DOT(WA) are holding there next PD on Monday 17th April at 6.30pm. Paula Buttigieg will present on PRPP for Kids – the Perceive, Recall, Plan, Perform System of Task Analysis and its application to young children.
Paula has worked with children for most of her career and is a long-term user and advocate for the PRPP system as both an assessment and intervention tool. For the past 16 years, Paula has worked at WizeTherapy, a private, transdisciplinary organisation that supports children with disability or developmental delay and their families. Paula has also worked with Chris Chapparo and Judy Ranka, the developers of the PRPP system, to deliver components of the PRPP training. Paula will be presenting a brief background to the PRPP model and how the assessment and intervention can be used when working with a range of children who experience difficulties in the cognitive domain.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84689459812
Meeting ID: 846 8945 9812
WAOTA are holding a 4 day PRPP Intervention course on Monday 29th May – Thursday 1st June presented by Dr Chris Chapparo and Dr Judy Ranka. Places are strictly limited – more information

Pain Care OT: Approaches and Strategies for Chronic Pain Recovery (OTIHS Int Group)
2023-04-20 07:30 - 08:30 | Zoom Online
We are pleased to invite you to our upcoming meeting where we will have the privilege of hosting Ian Cheok, Principal Occupational Therapist from Lifeworks OT. Ian is an occupational therapist with expertise in providing chronic pain care therapy. He will be speaking on the topic of Pain Care Occupational Therapy: Approaches and Strategies for Chronic Pain Recovery.
In this presentation, Ian will provide insights into the role of occupational therapy in managing chronic pain, the biopsychosocial model of chronic pain, and evidence-based approaches that occupational therapists use to manage chronic pain, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based interventions and activity-based therapy. Ian will also discuss practical strategies for managing chronic pain, and provide case studies that illustrate how occupational therapy can help individuals with chronic pain.
This presentation is an excellent opportunity for members of the OTIHS group to learn about the latest developments in chronic pain care therapy and to gain valuable insights into the role of occupational therapy in managing chronic pain. We hope you can join us for what promises to be an informative and engaging session.
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
WAOTA members free
Non-members $10.00
Book Online
Inaugural Awards Ball – Tickets Now Open

Neuro-affirming Practice: WAOTA Student Committee 11/5
2023-05-11 18:30 - 20:30 | Curtin University 108:118
WAOTA students are excited to welcome Sandy Lin, Hayley Thorburn and Joni Howell from Superyou Therapy for our May PD on Neuro-affirming practice!
Sandy is a speech pathologist who spent 3 years working in hospitals for all ages in Taiwan, and 4 years working in a paediatric setting in a multi-disciplinary team at Karratha. Identifying as an autistic Speechie and a neurodivergent person, Sarah has special interests in social communication and strives to advocate and support neurodiverse people with all ages to live in inclusive communities and be their best self.
Hayley is an occupational therapist with 2.5 years of experience working in the disability sector. Hayley is passionate about working with a wide range of clients of different ages and disabilities, with special interests in paediatrics, assistive technology, and Specialised Disability Accommodation. When Hayley was in year 10 at high school, she was diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome, Anxiety and ADHD. Hayley previously used to call herself an “Aspie”, however now identifies as Autistic.
Joni has been a speech pathologist for 17 years and has worked predominantly with paediatric clients. Joni has also worked with and alongside OTs and played a role in supervising OTs for a number of years. As a parent of a neurodivergent child and having supported neuro-divergent clinicians and clients for many years, Joni is passionate about ensuring that Superyou Therapy do their best to support awareness, acceptance and advocacy within the space.
Date: Thursday 11th May
Time: 6.30pm
Location: Curtin University, room 108:118
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
WAOTA members $5.00
Non-members $10.00
Book Online

Hand Interest Group PD 15/5
2023-05-15 17:30 - 19:30 | Zoom Online
The WAOTA Hand Interest Group are pleased to invite you to our upcoming meeting to be held on Monday 15th May at 5:30pm via zoom.
We have 3 wonderful presentations kindly prepared by Joondalup Health Campus/Ramsay Health. Please join us for an evening of learning and sharing!
Alex Mcleish (OT) – CMMS plaster casting & case study
Simone Paget (Snr OT) – Hand Therapy and Medical Imaging
Scott Pickering (Snr OT) – Current concepts in rehabilitation of distal bicep tendon repairs
Cost:
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
WAOTA members free
Non-members $10.00
Book Online
WAOTA Ball: Tickets sales close Sunday 23rd April. Family and friends welcome

Worksite Assessment & Staged Return to Work Programs
2023-05-23 17:30 - 18:30 | Zoom Online
Workplace Assessment is a key component of the injury management and workplace rehabilitation process. Ashlee Bowler will be presenting on workplace assessments including best practice measures on workplace assessments, how we complete them, and the importance of the assessment in assisting injured workers and their treating parties develop a staged Graduated Return to Work Program to achieve a timely and successful return to work.
Presenter:

Ashlee is an Occupational Therapist with Rehabilitation Services by Altius where she is employed as a Principal Consultant. Ashlee’s role encompasses all components of injury management, primarily within the WA worker’s compensation schemes specializing in complex management support for both physical and psychological injuries, across various industries and injury types, in regional and metropolitan areas.
Ashlee is a strong advocate of the importance of clear assessment and analysis of workplaces and duties, to develop successful staged Graduated Return to Work Programs.
Most recently, Ashlee has taken on the role of Team Manager, which involves the supervision and mentorship of a team to further develop their workplace rehabilitation and case management skills. Ashlee is passionate about assisting workers to return to work and mentoring the next generation of Injury Management Consultants.
Presenter: Ashlee Bowler
Date: Tuesday 23rd May
Time: 5.30pm – 6.30pm
Location: Zoom online, link will be emailed
Cost:
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
WAOTA members free
Non-members $10.00
Book Online
Inaugural WAOTA Ball – Tickets now open, family and friends welcome

Shower Commodes (and more) 15/6 (OTIHS Int Group)
2023-06-15 07:30 - 08:30 | Virtually Online
Angela Newton, Business Development Manager for K care, will be joining us for the next OT Services in the Home Interest Group meeting on 15th June at 7:30am. Angela will provide us with an overview of K Care products with particular focus on wheeled shower commodes; different specifications and modifications available including bariatric options. We encourage you to bring along any commode related queries or experiences to share. Angela will also demonstrate some pressure care chairs and mattresses and introduce us to some new/ little known equipment from K Care. She will discuss ways in which K Care can provide support to community Occupational Therapists and their clients. Please note, this meeting is dial in only.
Date: Thursday 15th June
Time: dial in from 7.15am for a 7.30am prompt start
Location: Virtual event only. Link will be emailed
Cost:
Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
WAOTA members free
Non-members $10.00
Book Online

Recognising and addressing burnout 24th August - Workplace Rehab Interest Group
2023-08-24 17:00 - 18:00 | Virtually Online
Date : Thursday 24th August, 2023
Time : 5:00 – 6:00pm
Location : Virtual ( via Teams )
About the Presentation :

Registered Psychologist, Andrew, will discuss what steps can be taken to recognise the indicators of burnout and counteract the impact as quickly and effectively as possible. Andrew has worked across multiple ‘people-centric’ industries and recognizes the challenges of self-care face by those who focus on helping others.

Psychological (mental) health, just like physical health, is an important part of work health and safety. Work-related psychological injuries have a significant impact on workers, their families and business. Workplace burnout comes from cumulative challenges in both work and personal life, which are sometimes difficult to recognize until we become “burnt out”.

Andrew’s presentation will focus on common mental health issues; recovering from psychological injuries; tips for maintaining good psychological health; and psychological challenges specific to the workplace.

Aimed at those in people-centric industries, this presentation will also assist you identify the three key areas of burnout, how to know burnout is approaching, and practical steps you can take to both recover from burnout and how to avoid it happening.
Book Online

August student PD 24th August
2023-08-24 18:30 - 20:30 | Curtin University 108: 119-120
Presenters: Serena Ng & Bec Anderson
Date: August 24
Time: 6:30pm
Location: Curtin University Room 108.119/120.
Tickets: $5 members, $10 non-members
Welcome back from the midyear break! WAOTA Students are excited to present our annual new graduate experience PD. This year we have two new graduates who would love to share their experience post-graduation.
Serena graduated in 2022 from Edith Cowan University and started her New Graduate Occupational Therapist role at Therapy Focus. Currently, she has a mixed caseload which consists of paediatrics and adults with a range of diagnoses which require regular interventions, assessments, or assistive technology input. Her areas of interest are fine motor, sensory processing, neurological rehabilitation, postural support, and assistive technology. She completed her university placements in vocational rehabilitation, hand therapy, aged care, and assistive technology.
Bec graduated from Curtin University in 2022. She currently works in hand therapy at RediMed where she treats a variety of upper limb conditions using different assessments and treatment modalities. She has a particular interest in the management of fractures. She completed her University placements in hand therapy, acute hospital, paediatrics, and aged care.
Book Online

Hand Interest Group PD 28/8
2023-08-28 17:30 - 19:30 | Virtually Online
We have 3 wonderful presentations kindly prepared by HandWorks Occupational Therapy. Please join us for an evening of learning and sharing!
Catie Bott – Pulley injuries
Renee Skou – Radial Head Fractures
Lara Van Poecke – Galleazi Fractures
Date: Monday 28th August
Time: 5.30pm
Location: via zoom, link will be emailed separately
Cost:
WAOTA members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $10.00
Book online

September student PD 14th September
2023-09-14 18:30 - 20:30 | Zoom Online
Presenters: Emily, Sam and Jemma
Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Location: Online via zoom
WAOTA is excited to present this month’s PD… in FORENSICS! Emily has been an OT for 8 years. Her current role is within the WA Department of Justice (DoJ). Emily has spent the last few years developing a new OT role based in Casuarina Prison (a men’s maximum-security prison) within the Mallee Rehabilitation Centre, where she supports engagement with the Solid Steps Program.
Sam has been an OT for 31 years, and currently works within the WA State Forensic Mental Health Services, primarily as an OT in Frankland Centre, but more recently as a Senior Project Officer working on projects such as the Criminal Law (Mentally Impaired Accused) Act review, where she also provides supervision and mentoring to staff (OT and AHA) working in forensic settings.
Jemma has been an OT for 10 years and currently works in a role where she provides a state-wide service to children and adults with an Intellectual Disability, Cognitive Disability and / or Autism who are interfacing with the justice system, as well as their support systems. Jemma is also involved in providing clinical support to the Disability Justice Centre; and delivering training about the disability and justice intersection to various departments.
Book online

Custom Rails 12/10 (OTIHS Int Group)
2023-10-12 07:30 - 08:30 | Virtually Online
Presenter: Blake Kennett will discuss prescription and measurements for custom handrails in the home environment.

Date: Thursday 12th October 2023

Time: Sign in from 7.15am, starts at 7.30am

Location: Virtual link will be emailed

Cost:

Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
WAOTA members free
Non-members $10.00
Book Online
About the Presenter :-
Blake is an Occupational Therapist that has been working with TADWA for close to three years and has recently moved into a senior position. He works mainly within the Community Aged Care setting; assisting clients to remain safely in their homes. He has developed a knowledge and understanding for the prescription of custom handrails while working closely working with the home modification team and fabricators.

2023 ARPA winners and their case studies - 4th December - Workplace Rehab Interest Group
2023-12-04 17:30 - 18:30 | Virtually Online
Presenter: Rebecca Kidd and Tiarn Mahney of WorkFocus Australia – Best New Starter & Outstanding Achievement in RTW Award – Physical Claim

Date: Monday 4th December 2023

Time: 5.30pm – 6.30pm

Location: Virtual (Teams)

Cost:

Please note in order to access the member rate you will need to log into your account on our website https://waota.com.au/login/
WAOTA members free
Non-members $10.00

About the Presentations :

Rebecca Kidd is an accredited Exercise Physiologist and Health Promotion practitioner with nearly 10 years’ experience in Vocational Rehabilitation field. Rebecca started her career with WorkFocus Australia as a new graduated Exercise Physiologist in their Bunbury office and over the years progressed into a team leader and Business Management role. In 2021 Rebecca took up the challenge of relocating to Kununurra to service the East and West Kimberley regions. Rebecca has a passion for providing quality and culturally sound services to the remote communities of the Kimberley and continues to strive for improved servicing for these clients. Living and working in the Kimberley presents its own unique challenges in providing effective Vocational Rehabilitation services. Thinking outside the box, building relationships and being open to listening, learning and reflecting on her own practices have been vital in adapting and implementing, quality services for her clients in this region. Rebecca will be presenting a case study located in the West Kimberley, which had her nominated as a finalist for the Outstanding Achievement In Return to Work Award for a Physical claim.

Tiarn Mahney is an Occupational Therapist who started her career as a Rehabilitation Consultant with WorkFocus Australia as a new graduate in 2022. Tiarn’s final practicum experiences allowed her to strengthen her clinical and case management skills in both community and acute settings, with her employment background complimenting her understanding of the employment industry and funding schemes with a focus on injury and disability. As a Rehabilitation Consultant, Tiarn is driven to achieve the best possible outcomes for her clients in the South West and is continually motivated to make meaningful difference to their lives. Tiarn will be presenting the case study that led to her being a finalist for Best New Starter and discussing the barriers and strategies that led to the client achieving a full recovery and positive return to work.
Book Online

Hand Interest Group PD 4.12
2023-12-04 17:30 - 19:30 | Virtually Online
The WAOTA Hand Interest Group is pleased to invite you to our final meeting of the year. Scheduled for Monday 4th December 2023 via Zoom from 5:30pm – 7:30pm, Jeannie Davis from Hand Clinic WA has kindly volunteered to present 3 presentations on infection control, wound management and Dupuytren’s Disease. Please join us for an evening of learning and sharing.

Date: Monday 4th December

Time: 5.30pm – 7:30pm

Location: via zoom, link will be emailed separately

Cost:
WAOTA members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $10.00
Book Online

Pressure Care Mattresses 22/2/2024 (OTIHS Int Group)
2024-02-22 07:30 - 08:30 | Virtually Online
The February meeting of the OT Services in the Home Interest Group will be hosting a presentation by Occupational Therapist Ilissa Liew on pressure care mattresses. This will include an overview of pressure care principles, the different types of mattresses available and advantages, disadvantages and client application for each. Ilissa is an Occupational Therapist with 15 years of experience in community neurology, geriatrics and disability. Ilissa’s approach to occupational therapy is grounded in a deep understanding of each individuals unique needs, enabling her to tailor evidence-based interventions that promote independence, well-being, and quality of life. She is currently Clinical Educator at Unicare Health.
The interest group runs from 7:30am for 1 hour on Thursday 22nd February.
Cost:
WAOTA members free (Please log into your account via our website to receive the member rate https://waota.com.au/login/ )
Non-members $10.00
Virtual link will be emailed prior to the Interest Group.
Book Online

April Student PD 17th April
2024-04-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Zoom Online
OT in Forensics
WAOTA Student Committee is pleased to present OT in Forensics.
Wednesday 17th April 2024 at 6:00pm
Presenters
Emma graduated in 2020 and has worked in community disability in both large and small businesses under NDIS funding. She worked in multidisciplinary teams providing both 1:1 sessions and therapeutic groups to children and adults. Emma has spent the last 2 years working as a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner, and enjoys how this role allows her to work with all key stakeholders in a clients life. Emma recently moved to the Department of Communities Disability Justice Service as a Disability Justice Clinician, providing consults to clients involved with the justice system as well as providing training to staff working in the justice system interacting with people with disability.
Emily has been an OT for 8 years. She has spent the majority of her career working in mental health settings at Graylands Hospital and her current role with the WA Department of Justice (DoJ). While at Graylands she worked across secure wards in the Hospital Extended Care Service, working with people with complex comorbidities. In 2021 she was given the opportunity of developing a new OT role based in Casuarina Prison (a men’s maximum-security prison) in the Mallee Rehabilitation Centre. This role supports engagement with the Solid Steps Program which is a 9-month drug and alcohol program within a modified therapeutic community. She’s always working to develop her generalist skill set, and is interested in the intersection of complex comorbidities and how to best support the people who experience them.
Sam has been an OT for 31 years, during which she has worked primarily in mental health (MH) and forensic settings. Her career has seen her working in forensic MH services in both WA and in the UK. Sam returned in 2015 to work within the WA State Forensic Mental Health Services (SFMHS), primarily as an OT in Frankland Centre. She recently spent the last few years as a Senior Project Officer in the SFMHS working on projects such as the Criminal Law (Mentally Impaired Accused) Act review, before returning to Frankland Centre as the Senior OT. She has provided, and continues to provide, supervision and mentoring to staff (OT and AHA) working in forensic settings such as the Frankland Centre, and prison settings.
Date: Wednesday 17 April 2024
Time: 6:00pm
Location: Online
Cost: $5 for Members , $10 for Non-members
Book Online

geat2GO Program 23/5/2024 (OTIHS Int Group)
2024-05-23 07:15 - 08:30
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.
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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!
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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.
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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
