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Strive Occupational Rehabilitation

Occupational Rehabilitation Services

Staff Spotlight: Meet Elle Balchin, Senior Consultant – OT

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In this Staff Spotlight, we’re pleased to introduce Elle Balchin, Senior Consultant at Strive, and recognise the important contribution she makes to our team and the clients we support. Elle brings a thoughtful, outcomes-focused approach to occupational rehabilitation, working closely with clients, employers, and key stakeholders to navigate complex situations and support meaningful progress.

Known for her professionalism, consistency, and calm presence, Elle is committed to delivering practical, sustainable solutions tailored to each individual’s circumstances. She takes the time to understand the broader picture, ensuring rehabilitation strategies are not only clinically sound but also realistic and aligned with long-term goals.

Elle’s collaborative style and strong advocacy for her clients reflect Strive’s values and our commitment to high-quality, person-centred practice. Her work plays an important role in helping people move forward with confidence, and we’re proud to shine a light on Elle as part of our ongoing Staff Spotlight series.

  1. Can you tell us a little about your role at Strive and how long you have been with the team?

I’m a Senior Consultant with Strive and I am lucky to have been here 7 years since joining as a new grad. While some of my time is spent providing traditional occ rehab services like ergonomics and return to work facilitation, in my role I generally focus on early intervention supports not just for individuals, but for teams as well. Over the past year or two I have gradually taken on more work in the team intervention space, looking at team and workplace dynamics and how they impact on culture, and providing recommendations and support to shift this gradually over time. I also love facilitating groups, programs, and workshops!

  1. What made you want to join Strive in the first place?

I was attracted to Strive while still working towards my OT degree – I was lucky to meet our now GM, Chris Merrilees, through a class and was intrigued to hear how much of occupational rehabilitation hinged on early intervention, particularly with mental health supports and interventions timed effectively.

  1. What’s something about your role that might surprise people who don’t work in this space?

I think most people think of occupational rehabilitation as quite a cold or transactional area of practice, particularly in OT circles – I’d probably put this down to genuine misunderstanding and misconceptions of the role of insurance and compensation schemes. In reality, my role is one where my warmth and optimism is not just welcome, but considered a strength and foundational to building relationships with not just the clientele, but partnering with workplaces, insurers, and other stakeholders.  

  1. Strive places a big focus on values like integrity, respect and wellbeing — which value resonates most with you?

Integrity is one of my personal values, which is also how I knew early days that working here would be a good fit for me. Showing up as my authentic self, doing what I say I’m going to do, and doing the right thing even when it’s hard are all important to me and ways I keep myself grounded when the going gets tough.

  1. What advise or suggestion would you have for someone who is trying to better balance their work and personal life?

True balance is a myth, but choice is in your hands. Going towards the things that are most important to you will rarely steer you wrong, and generally a healthy focus on your life outside of work will make you a better worker as well.