Occupational Therapists play a vital role in helping individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life. At Strive, Rehabilitation Consultants work across diverse settings to support clients through tailored recovery plans. We spoke with one of Strive’s Occupational Therapists, Ainsley Childs, based in Gold Coast/Brisbane to learn more about her work, passion and perspective on wellbeing.
What services do you provide as a Rehabilitation Consultant at Strive, and how do they support client recovery?
As a Rehabilitation Consultant at Strive, I support clients recovering from injury, illness, or mental health conditions to safely return to work and everyday life. My role involves developing personalised return-to-work plans, conducting functional assessments, and collaborating with healthcare providers, insurers, and employers to create a strong support network. A key part of my work is also promoting mental wellbeing and helping clients rebuild confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose throughout their recovery journey.
How do you tailor your approach when working with clients in different locations like Gold Coast and Brisbane?
Working across two different locations has really helped me in developing my client-centred practice skills as it’s about understanding not just the individual, but also the context they live and work in, so the strategies we develop are realistic, accessible, and sustainable. Even though Brisbane and the Gold Coast are geographically close to one another, our clientele in each is very different. I find in Brisbane I am working with larger organisations and therefore need to consider a few extra stakeholders in coordinating rehabilitation and return to work. This puts an emphasis on my timely communication and the case management aspect of my role. On the Gold Coast, the clientele tends to be a bit more flexible which allows me to tap into being a bit more creative and using my problem solving skills.
What do you do for self-care to maintain your own wellbeing while supporting others?
Something I value about working for Strive is the emphasis placed on looking after ourselves first to be able to give our best to our clients who need it. Self-care for me looks like running with friends including our Strive run club after work, spending time with my friends usually trying out a new restaurant or wine bar, cuddling any dog I can and making time for getting outside usually walking Mt Coo-tha or going down to the southern beaches on the GC. When I feel at my best, I know I can show up for my clients better.
What do you love most about working at Strive?
I love the variety, no two weeks look the same. I love that I have autonomy over my days and can plan things the way I know I best function. And of course the people at Strive, the most supportive, uplifting and patient group of people I have ever met!
What advice would you give to Occupational Therapists considering a role in Occupational Rehabilitation?
If you’re an OT who enjoys variety, seeing results for your work and problem solving, my advice would be to give it a go! It’s a rewarding field where you can make a real impact by helping people regain independence, return to work, and rebuild their lives after injury or illness. Be ready to think creatively, communicate with a wide range of stakeholders, and support both physical and psychological recovery. It’s a dynamic space that blends clinical skills with case management and advocacy, no two days are ever the same.
How do you stay motivated and continue growing professionally in a fast-paced rehabilitation environment?
Staying motivated comes from seeing the real impact this work has on people’s lives. It’s the thanks you get after helping someone navigate a tricky recovery and get back to what brings them a feeling of meaning and purpose. I also make professional growth a priority by staying connected with peers, engaging in regular supervision, as well as shadowing more experienced consultants on work I haven’t done before.
What is your favourite quote/saying that reminds people about the importance of self-care?
One of my favourites is “Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean ‘me first,’ it means ‘me too.’” — L.R. Knost.
This quote really speaks to the idea that self-care isn’t about being selfish, it’s about recognising that your wellbeing matters just as much as the people you’re supporting.
Meet Greg Pearce: Supporting Recovery and Return to Work with Heart