Prevention & Management of Discomfort and Pain
Early intervention is critical for the prevention of discomfort, pain and injury.
Assessments and training can be provided to individuals or groups to identify any potential risks in the workplace and provide advice on risk management strategies to enhance the physical and mental well-being of employees.
Return to Work Programmes
I have extensive experience working with individuals and their employers to ensure the safe and sustainable return to work for individuals after an injury or health condition.
I provide individual assessment and plans for clients who work in a range of industries including farming, factory and office workers.
Workplace Well-being
I bring a bio-psychosocial approach to my practice and skill training to learn strategies for physical and mental well-being.
Physical, social, cognitive and psychological health is promoted and supported through an environment that encourages respect, initiative, connectedness and safety.
About Carin
OTBNZ | PgCertHSc | m,OTNZ | HASANZ Registered
Hi, I'm Carin, a New Zealand registered and practicing Occupational Therapist with 35+ years’ experience.
I work with employers and workers to create and sustain an environment or culture where all workers are enabled to achieve the demands of their work in a safe and supportive context.
My special areas of interests are in working with individuals and their employers to develop return to work programmes for staff who have been off work or are struggling to stay at work due to an injury or health condition.
I collaborate with the employer, the worker and other health professionals involved with that individual in order to develop a plan that will facilitate recovery and a safe and sustainable return to work.
I also work in the in the area of primary and secondary prevention by providing interventions to prevent the occurrence of an injury or disease, for example early intervention for those presenting with gradual process musculo-skeletal disorders, anxiety, stress or low mood and advice on adaptations to the work tasks or work environment for workers when returning to work post injury in order to prevent further decline or re-injury.
Workers are enabled to optimise their potential and to maximise productivity while maintaining health and well-being.
I have a philosophy of using education as my main tool when carrying out workplace assessments. I believe in the importance of empowering organisations, from management to individuals, by teaching practical skills to manage the health and safety needs within their workplace.
In 2014 I completed a post graduate certificate in health sciences which included ergonomics and vocational rehabilitation, and in 2015 I completed a workshop on Understanding Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I've completed ACC training for preventing and managing discomfort, pain and injury.
I work across a broad range of industries, as well as for small, medium and large organisations and government agencies.
Early intervention is critical for the prevention of discomfort, pain and injury. Assessments and training can be provided to individuals or groups to identify any potential risks in the workplace and provide advice on risk management strategies to enhance the physical and mental well-being of employees.
I have a particular interest in the prevention of musculo skeletal issues that can arise from computer operation in offices.
Interventions include recommending preventative measures to control for workplace hazards, providing education about body mechanics to minimise risks associated with workplace injury, advising on optimal sitting and standing posture, office equipment and adjustments to furniture that will optimise comfort.
I can provide early intervention for those presenting with Gradual process/musculo-skeletal disorders, anxiety, stress or low mood.
I have extensive experience working with individuals and their employers to ensure the safe and sustainable return to work for individuals after an injury or health condition.
I provide individual assessment and plans for clients who work in a range of industries including farming, factory and office workers.
I am able to provide workplace assessments, task analysis, functional job descriptions, graduated return to work plans, advice on equipment and environmental modifications for individuals who have been off work due to an injury or illness or are struggling to remain at work due to injury or illness. I am able to liaise with other medical health professionals, physiotherapist, and GP to ensure the appropriate medical certificate is obtained.
I am able to provide oversight and monitoring of the plan to ensure that the worker and employer are supported in the process and any adjustments can be made as required to support a safe and sustainable return to work.
I bring a bio-psychosocial approach to my practice and skill training to learn strategies for physical and mental well-being.
Physical, social, cognitive and psychological health is promoted and supported through an environment that encourages respect, initiative, connectedness and safety.
I provide individual interventions and interactive workshops on a range of work related subjects such as managing stress, fatigue, sleep management, connectedness and mental health. I assist individuals and teams to explore and identify strategies that will assist in the prevention and promotion of well-being at work.
Health and Safety New Zealand (HASNZ) Independent Occupational Therapist.
