4min read
Mental Health Clinician Sarah
10 years Occupational Therapist experience
Compared to metro, the opportunities out in Australia’s remote, rural and regional locations are sometimes too hard to pass up. Sarah secured a mental health clinician contract through Affinity and has been chasing sunsets ever since! Not only are you in demand, but you are afforded the lifestyle of being able to travel and work at the same time.
We checked in with Sarah to see how her experience was going.
1. How long have you been working as an occupational therapist, and what drew you to specialise in mental health?
I am in my 10th year working as an OT and for the most part have worked in mental health settings. I completed my first placement as a student in mental health and knew I wanted to specialise in it since then. I enjoy working with people in a holistic way and being able to support people to achieve what is meaningful for them.
2. What made you pursue travel contracts? What are you enjoying the most about it?
I recently returned to Australia after working travel contracts in the UK for the past 2 years. I wasn’t ready to give up the opportunity of being able to travel and work at the same time. I have enjoyed getting to know a new team and being able to get stuck into a role straight away, particularly when a team has not had an OT for a while which means your contribution is always welcomed and appreciated.
3. How is your time going at Riverland Integrated Mental Health?
It has been a great experience. The team is friendly and supportive and I have enjoyed the variety of the work I have been able to do. I work across the community and inpatient settings, so no two days are ever the same.
4. What does your typical workday look like?
My day starts with a multidisciplinary team meeting for both the community and inpatient teams, to discuss new referrals or receive a handover about patients. The rest of the day is balanced between home visits out in the community, or seeing patients on the wards.
5. What have you gotten up to in Berri while on contract?
I have enjoyed exploring the local area, in particular walks by the river and day trips to local towns.
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 was able to join up at the local gym which helped me to stick to my regular routine and switch off from work. I made sure to bring some creature comforts such as my kindle and a few personal items to make my space feel more homely.
7. What has been the highlight of working with Affinity so far?
The support from Affinity was great and I was able to have a role confirmed really quickly. They helped with navigating all of the logistics and kept me updated every step of the way.
8. Do you have a favourite shot from your time in Berri? What’s the story behind it?
I loved spending time by the river, either walking or sitting down with a coffee and a book. There were also some amazing sunsets that were even better in person.
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, just do it! It is a great opportunity to experience new career challenges and explore areas of Australia at the same time.
Your work doesn’t have to be confined to one place; apply your skills and expertise to some of Australia’s most beautiful locations. It’s time to use your ticket to adventure: register with Affinity today and see where you will catch your next sunset.
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