4min read
Mental Health Clinician Finley
3.5 years Occupational Therapist experience
Together with his fiancé, Anna, Finn is experiencing the perks of his first Affinity Allied Health contract. Recently coming back from working in the UK, they set their sights on something different—a new adventure in the heart of Australia, Alice Springs.
We’ve heard Anna’s side of the story in Part 1, now take a read of what Finn has got up to in the red centre!
1. How long have you been working as an occupational therapist for, and do you specialise in a particular area of practice?
I have been an OT for about 3.5 years, over this time I have worked within the mental health sector in both the community and acute settings. In Alice Springs, I have been fortunate to work in the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Team which I have really enjoyed. Being able to help children, young people, and their families navigate what is often extremely challenging periods of their lives is extremely rewarding.
2. What made you pursue travel contracts? What are you enjoying the most about it?
Myself and my partner were previously doing locum work in the UK and when we came back to Australia we were keen to try and do the same here. We love the flexibility and the opportunities that travel contracts provide. Being able to work in different areas and meet new people has been amazing.
3. How is your time going at Alice Springs Hospital?
I’ve really enjoyed my time with NT Health here in Alice Springs. The caseload has been very diverse which keeps things interesting and constantly challenges me to grow as a clinician. I’ve felt incredibly supported by the team, I have been provided with lots of opportunities for professional development and training which has been amazing. I have been extremely privileged to work alongside some amazing Aboriginal Health Workers while learning more about culture has been something I will value for the rest of my career.
4. What does your typical workday look like?
Working in the community team everyday is different from the last. Though it will often involve a combination of initial assessments, MDT meetings, and face to face appointments with young people and their families. I see and work with young people from ages 3-18yrs with a range of conditions including ASD, ADHD, mood and psychotic disorders. I work closely with the team of social workers, psychologists, nurses and Psychiatrists to develop safety plans.
A typical workday with the Child and Adolescent Mental Health team looks different each time. It will often involve a mix of client appointments, collaboration with the multidisciplinary team (MDT), parent sessions, and safety planning. I will review client progress, attend MDT meetings to discuss treatment plans, and conduct one-on-one therapy sessions with clients to address issues like self-regulation, life skills, and overall functioning. Parent sessions are key for teaching strategies to support the child at home, while safety planning ensures children are equipped with coping strategies and support in crisis situations. Due to the unique nature of Alice Springs’ population I will also work closely with our Aboriginal Mental Health Workers to appropriately support our Indigenous clients in a culturally appropriate way.
5. What have you gotten up to in the NT while on contract?
Alice Springs is known for its bad reputation but we have nothing but good things to say about our time here. There is so much on offer both in town and the beautiful national parks within driving distance. We have been super lucky in our short time to have had the opportunity to do some amazing camping trips and bushwalks which have allowed us to see even more of the stunning landscapes. We have also had the chance to try out some of the local cultural experiences such as Aboriginal art workshops and bush foods lectures.
6. Any hobbies you bring with you while on contract to relax between shifts? What makes you feel at home while travelling for work?
I love my sport and Alice Springs is the perfect place for it. I’ve been fortunate to be able to play in a wide range of social and competitive teams in all sorts of sports including cricket, netball, pickleball, and touch footy. These teams and organisations have been a great way to meet people and feel part of the community.
7. What has been the highlight of working with Affinity so far?
The highlight of working with Affinity has been just how easy and stress free it has made the whole process. Our recruitment officer Frances has been so accessible and happy to answer any questions or concerns we have had. She is regularly checking in to make sure everything is running smoothly.
8. Do you have a favourite photo from your travels? What’s the story behind it?
The landscape in and around Alice Springs is so stunning that it’s really hard to pick a favourite. I think it’s hard to go past the photo (featured at the top) of one of the permanent waterholes here at Emily’s Gap. Only ten minutes out of the centre of Alice Springs it is such a lovely spot to go and hang out and cool off even in the peak of the summer heat. A great picnic spot to be enjoyed by yourself or with friends!
9. What advice would you give other allied health professionals who are thinking of using their skills out in regional, rural and remote areas of Australia?
If you are considering it, do it! The opportunities to see places and do things that you may not have done otherwise are too good to pass up. At times it can be challenging, that’s why having a supportive agency like Affinity is so helpful in reducing the stress and workload of the recruitment process so you can focus on being a therapist. I am certain you will find the work extremely rewarding and beneficial for your learning and career progression.
Travel contracting rewards you with incomparable experiences and a magnitude of career development. The whole of Australia is your backyard, so why not go exploring? Register with Affinity today and find your next adventure.
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