When it comes to supporting people through life-changing injuries, illness and uncertainty, Chris Scott brings a thoughtful, practical and people-focused approach to rehabilitation.
As a Rehabilitation Counsellor on the Gold Coast, Chris is passionate about helping people recognise that an injury or setback does not have to define their future. By taking the time to understand each person’s strengths, interests, goals and circumstances, he works alongside clients to identify realistic pathways forward and build confidence in what is possible.
What motivates Chris most is seeing someone move from uncertainty towards greater clarity, purpose and self-belief. Whether supporting a return to work, exploring a new career direction or helping someone navigate a significant life transition, he values being part of a process that creates meaningful and lasting change.
Get to know Chris as he shares what inspired his career in rehabilitation, the advice he gives to people facing major life changes, what keeps him motivated, and why he enjoys being part of the Strive team.
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in Rehabilitation Counselling, and what do you enjoy most about the work you do?
I was drawn to Rehabilitation Counselling because it brings together several things that are important to me: working with people, understanding their individual circumstances, solving complex problems and helping someone identify a meaningful way forward.
What I enjoy most is helping people recognise that an injury, illness or major life change does not have to define what comes next. Rehabilitation is rarely a straightforward process, and people can sometimes lose confidence in their abilities or feel uncertain about their future. I value the opportunity to listen, understand what matters to each person and work alongside them to identify realistic options that reflect their skills, interests, health needs and goals.
It is particularly rewarding when someone begins to see possibilities they may not have recognised at the start of the process.
2. As a Rehabilitation Counsellor on the Gold Coast, what are some of the most rewarding aspects of helping people return to work and achieve their goals?
One of the most rewarding aspects is seeing someone rebuild confidence and regain a sense of direction. Returning to work is not simply about securing a job or resuming duties. It can also restore routine, independence, purpose and a sense of connection.
Every person’s circumstances are different, particularly when they are managing an injury, illness or significant change in their life. I enjoy taking the time to understand the whole person rather than focusing only on a diagnosis or employment outcome. This means considering their strengths, previous experience, interests, values, current capacity and the practical barriers they may be facing.
Being based on the Gold Coast also means working with people from a broad range of industries, backgrounds and communities. It is rewarding to help someone bring all the pieces together and develop a pathway that is not only achievable, but also safe, meaningful and sustainable.
3. What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who is navigating a significant injury, illness or life change?
My advice would be to give yourself permission to take things one step at a time. You do not need to have every answer immediately, and it is okay if your plans or priorities change as you learn more about yourself and your circumstances.
A significant injury, illness or life change can affect confidence and make the future feel uncertain. Try not to measure your progress only against where you were before. Instead, focus on what is possible now, acknowledge the progress you are making and remain open to support and different pathways.
Recovery is not always linear. A setback does not mean that progress has been lost, and asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Sometimes the most important first step is simply having an honest conversation about where you are and what you need.
4. When you’re not supporting clients, how do you like to spend your time outside of work?
When I am not working, I enjoy having time to slow down, recharge and spend time with the people who are important to me. I also enjoy learning, working through new ideas and tackling projects that allow me to be curious and solve problems.
For me, having interests outside work provides valuable perspective and helps me return to my work feeling focused and refreshed.
5. What do you enjoy most about being part of the Strive team?
What I enjoy most about being part of the Strive team is the willingness of people to share their knowledge and support one another. Occupational rehabilitation often involves complex situations, and it is valuable to work in a team where people are willing to exchange ideas, offer a different perspective and help each other find a way forward.
There is a genuine mix of professional knowledge, practical experience and personality across the team. I appreciate being able to ask questions, learn from colleagues and contribute my own experience where it may assist someone else. That collaborative approach helps us continue developing professionally while providing considered and high-quality support to our clients.
There is also a strong sense that good work is recognised and celebrated, which contributes to a positive and connected workplace culture.
6. What keeps you motivated, both professionally and personally?
Professionally, I am motivated by the opportunity to do work that has a practical and meaningful impact. Every client brings a different background, set of circumstances and idea of what a successful future might look like. That keeps the work challenging and encourages me to continue learning, researching and improving how I support people.
I am also motivated by seeing someone move from uncertainty towards greater confidence and clarity. Sometimes that involves returning to work, while at other times it may mean identifying a new career direction, undertaking education or training, or simply recognising that there are still worthwhile options available.
Personally, I am motivated by curiosity, continued learning and the satisfaction that comes from working through a complex problem until a clear and useful way forward emerges. I try to remain thoughtful in how I approach challenges and to focus on making steady progress rather than expecting everything to be resolved at once.
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