Spotlight Series: Leadership in Occupational Therapy
At Therapy Pro, we believe great leadership inspires great therapy.
In this article, we’re thrilled to introduce our community to Ainslee, our Therapy Pro Acting Head of Occupational Therapy.
We sat down with Ainslee to discuss her thoughts on leadership in occupational therapy, what makes therapy truly great, and the lessons she’s learned during her career to date.
A very warm welcome to our new Leadership Spotlight Series!
What is the Leadership Series about?
Our leaders here at Therapy Pro are the people who guide our therapy teams, inspire innovation, and help us achieve our mission to empower clients to live their best lives.
For those new to Therapy Pro, we’re a mobile allied health provider that works with people of all ages and abilities across Australia. Whether it’s in your home, school, or community, our therapists provide high-quality, flexible support to help clients reach their goals.
Our mission is simple: to empower people to live full and meaningful lives. We’re here for NDIS participants, aged care clients, and anyone looking for tailored therapy to suit their needs.
Let’s dive in and share some insights from our chat with Ainslee earlier this month!
What makes therapy great?
First and foremost, we asked Ainslee what makes therapy “great” and not “just okay”?
It was all about connection.
“A good therapist will listen,” she explains, “but a great therapist goes deeper. They really understand and empathise with their client’s experiences.”
This deeper connection creates a safe space where clients can feel truly heard and understood. They’re in a place where they don’t need to worry about judgment or criticism.
But great therapy doesn’t stop at empathy and connection; Ainslee also believes it’s about working holistically.
“You have to look at the whole person, their values, goals, and experiences, and collaborate with them as a team.”
This approach respects each client’s individuality and gives them an active role in shaping their therapy journey.
Ainslee also emphasises the importance of staying professional. “It’s crucial to follow ethical guidelines, and keep confidentiality,” she shares.
Finally, great therapy means being committed to learning.
“A great therapist is always growing,” Ainslee says. “They’re constantly updating their skills, staying on top of the latest research, and seeking supervision to make sure they’re providing the best care possible.”
A leadership style that shapes occupational therapy
When it comes to leadership, Ainslee’s approach is all about inspiring and empowering others.
“I love seeing people reach their full potential,” she shares. “I want to help them push past what they thought they couldn’t do.”
Ainslee’s approach to leadership in occupational therapy is transformational, focused on innovation, adaptability, and growth.
She believes in leading with empathy and authenticity, meeting people where they’re at and providing the support they need to move forward. It’s about building strong relationships from the start, which is essential to supporting team success.
“Everyone’s at a different stage and needs something different from me,” she says. “That’s why I put so much focus on getting to know my team and building trust from the start.”
Continuous learning is just as important to Ainslee’s leadership style.
“Knowledge sharing is a two-way street,” she explains. “I support my team to grow, but they also teach me and challenge me to keep learning every day. I value every perspective.”
Ainslee is also passionate about creating a positive, empowering work environment. “I want the people I work with to feel valued, confident, and inspired to thrive,” she says. “Respect, open communication, and collaboration are the foundation of everything we do.”
Advice to her younger self
Growth comes from experience. So, we asked Ainslee if she could go back in time, what would she tell her younger self about stepping into leadership in occupational therapy:
- Take risks: “Not everything will work out, and that’s okay. It’s not failure, it’s how we grow and learn for next time.”
- Be authentic and empathetic: “When you’re genuine, people see it. Staying true to yourself really does make all the difference.”
- Invest in professional growth: “Keep learning, building your skills, and seeking feedback. Growth is a journey, and it’s worth it.”
Inspiring teams, transforming therapy
Effective leadership in occupational therapy is about fostering empathy, collaboration, and continuous learning.
Ainslee’s transformational leadership style highlights how leaders can support both their clients and teams to achieve greatness.
It’s a perfect example of how empathy, collaboration, and a passion for growth can make a lasting impact.
Whether she’s empowering her clients through great therapy or working with her team to reach new goals, Ainslee’s commitment to making a difference is obvious.
As Ainslee puts it, “Great therapy and great leadership aren’t so different. They both start with empathy, understanding, and believing in the potential of others.”
Stay tuned for more insights from our leadership team
This is just the beginning!
Our Leadership Spotlight Series will continue as we introduce you to the incredible people driving innovation, growth, and support across our therapy teams.
Follow us on social media or check back in with our blog regularly to meet more leaders, discover their unique styles, and learn how they’re transforming great therapy, one client at a time.
