Have you heard that occupational therapists working in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) receive no clinical support and are overworked and under-supported? Let’s separate fact from fiction and shed light on the reality!
Myth: All occupational therapists in the NDIS are inexperienced and receive no clinical support.
Reality: This couldn’t be further from the truth IF you’re selective about the organisation you work for. Picking the right company and role will provide you with all of the development and support you could need to survive and thrive in this complex system. When looking for your next OT role, pick a company that fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth, who can confidently tell your (or better yet, show you) the clinical guidance and support you will receive there and the ultimate flex – let you interview their team so you can see for yourself they aren’t all talk.
Myth: Burnout is inevitable.
Reality: It’s a common belief that all occupational therapists in the NDIS experience inevitable burnout due to heavy workloads and challenging situations. However, it’s crucial to understand that the antidote to burnout are support systems that help identify it, manage it and ideally prevent it. Positive and supportive work environments that offer professional development and resources in self-care, stress management and emotional intelligence in conjunction with providing comprehensive clinical support, provides OTs with the tools they need to thrive and prevent burnout. Whilst we can all feel burdened by the system and its complexities, knowing how to recalibrate and look after ourselves will mean we can sustain playing a critically important role for our clients.
In essence, addressing these myths demonstrates that success and fulfilment as an occupational therapist within the NDIS are attainable through strategic choices and a commitment to self-care and growth. By embracing the reality and seeking out organisations that provide comprehensive support, therapists can navigate the challenges of the system while maintaining their own well-being and making a lasting impact on the lives of their clients.
