Louise Whittet

Senior Occupational Therapist

Hi, I'm Louise. 

As a child I required occupational therapy, which turned out to be a very positive experience! I was driven to assist young children facing similar challenges, and it inspired me to pursue my own career as an occupational therapist. I also have a passion for cross-cultural encounters.

I consider myself privileged to have completed my final OT placement at the Vellore Christian Medical Hospital in India, where I collaborated with fellow students and new graduates in their child rehabilitation program. This eye-opening experience revealed the transformative power of therapy for families living in poverty, enabling them to enhance children's prospects.

My focus lies in aiding children with sensory integration difficulties and collaborating with families and schools to optimise their development and lead fulfilling lives. This was deepened by my role as a mother to four girls, two of whom face sensory challenges. Consequently, I have developed a keen interest in exploring various strategies and interventions to support their own needs.

Prior to university, I worked as a care worker for children with multiple and complex support requirements. I began as a volunteer at 14 and transitioned to a paid position at 17 after high school. This invaluable experience allowed me to gain proficiency using alternative communication methods, such as communication boards, keyword sign language, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. In my current role, I eagerly build on these experiences, and I have already begun learning Auslan signs to further enhance my abilities.

Beyond my professional endeavours, I find joy in cooking meals for my family, baking, and decorating cakes, and embarking on walks amidst nature, often along the scenic Linear Park trail. Our family also includes an adorable Moodle named Rocky and four guinea pigs, each lovingly chosen for one of my daughters.

• Master of Occupational Therapy MOT