Luke Andrews is the newest occupational therapist (OT) to join our team at Ascend Health, so we sat down for a conversation with Luke to ask him all things OT and what it’s like working in the disability health sector. Luke is an active and new Occupational Therapist from Curtin University. With 2.5 years work experience at Ascend Health as a support worker, mentor, and therapy assistant, Luke enjoys working with families and helping people with differing abilities to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life. Luke has a special interest in working with teenagers and young adults transitioning into adulthood, independent living, and the workforce.

In your own words, what is OT?

Occupational therapy (OT) is a holistic health profession focused on promoting health and wellbeing through enabling participation in valued daily activities, improving function, and/or occupations that are unique to the individual and brings meaning to their lives.

What made you want to become an OT?

I have always loved working with people and their families with previous experience as a music tutor/teacher and have a keen interest in fitness, health, and wellbeing. Through these experiences I’ve seen the power and benefit of engagement in occupation that brings meaning to people's lives. This being the essence of OT attracted me and I hope to share and empower others through this therapy.

How has your background in Support Work and Therapist Assistance helped shape your career as an OT?

My experience as a support worker has given me great experience and opportunity to build the foundational skills needed to become a better therapist, including but not limited to communication, interpersonal skills, NDIS knowledge, and professional skills.

My experience as a therapy assistant (TA) has further solidified my experience as a support worker and built on those foundational skills in a more structured and therapeutic manner focusing on building people’s capacity.

Tell us about a memorable moment, recovery or advancement you’ve seen in your field?

One particular moment relates to a member reaching a personal goal to confidently socialise with others in the valued occupation of roller skating independently. This resulted in the building and maintenance of a social group into their routine improving mental and physical health.

Another moment involved a member building his confidence to identify and express his emotions to both familiar and unfamiliar people to assist him to regulate his behaviour and receive the support he needs.

What do you love about working with Ascend Health?

I love the interdisciplinary nature of Ascend, the flexibility and responsiveness of the team, and the culture at HQ who are willing to have fun and are passionate about making a difference.

What do you love doing in your spare time?

I love playing my guitars, home-brewing beer, traveling, and fitness training

What are three things you can’t live without?

Three things I can’t live without are my family, music, and food (foodie).

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If you are interested in Luke’s Occupational Therapy services he is currently available taking on new members in southern Perth suburbs commencing early October. Please feel free to contact Ascend on 1800 573 116 or send an email to hello@ascendhealthgroup.com.au