Reflections on
2017 highlights
So many new learnings in 2017 :- I always learn the most valuable information from my clients (and their families) – what works for them, their creative solutions, what new challenges arise – every year a greater depth of understanding emerges – and more need to master skills to help clients
The biggest event was my attendance at the Occupational Therapy Australia 2017 Conference at Perth, which had so many inspirational presentations- as well as practical strategies and information shared via presentations and eposters.
Gill Hicks keynote was a standout – she experienced horrific injuries in the London bombings but chose (and still chooses) to be grateful for being still alive. She challenged us to be aware of the ripples of our actions effecting others – and to be positive and promoting peace and understanding
I was privileged to present an eposter which showed the process my colleagues and I explored to produce a tool which explains the impact of sensory sensitivities/needs as well as the overall occupational performance context. This is being constantly refined to show neurological , pain and mental health factors – as well as being modified through client feedback to be as relevant and effective as possible. (Also contributing has been the Qld OT Mental Health Private Practice group)
Professor Anita Bundy also provided a strong message (backed by research) that people (especially children) benefit from being allowed to take risks to learn, develop, become creative and grow
So much wonderful research and practice results were also shared online (most notably Dr Ruth Buczynski’s Neurobiology of Trauma Treatment series – www.nicabm.com) and Tami Simon’s Sounds True Neuroscience series)
– understanding of trauma effects, memory and treatments
– self regulation ‘hands-on’ skills (multiple research and brainstorming with colleagues)
– greater depth of understanding of the physiology of breathing , and means to effective breathing exercises made fun and motivating
– understanding of and strategies to work with anxiety, depression
-use of compassion (including for self), gratitude (www.gratefulness.com)
– creative strategies (www.schoolofmodernpsychology)
utilising sandtray techniques as an additional tool for play
Very notable and inspiring information and tools shared has been from : Drs Dan Siegel, Steven Porges, Rick Hansen, Ruth Lanius, Bessel Van de Kolk, Pat Ogden, James Doty, Peter Levine, Ron Siegel, John Arden, Joan Boresenko, Janina Fisher, Catherine Pittman, Elisha Goldstein, Kelly McGonical, Kristen Nelson, Stan Tatkin, David Altman, Allan Schore.
Other additional information learned has been on organisational skills for people with ADHD,and keyboarding skills (via EDweb)
So much learned – so much more to follow up with in 2018 – will share