PODCAST · education
OT Coaching Confidential
by The OT Coach Australia
OT Coaching Confidential - Real conversations. Real growth. Real therapists. Real world.OT Coaching Confidential is a mentoring podcast for occupational therapists and allied health professionals who want honest insight, genuine reflection, and the reassurance that they are not navigating this work alone. Each episode is a real, unscripted one-on-one mentoring session between host Alyce Svensk and an anonymous guest. An honest conversation about where they are right now, what they are working through, and what it looks and feels like to grow as a therapist and professional.Topics span the full breadth of practice life: clinical complexity, building confidence, managing a caseload, stepping into leadership, navigating private practice, career transitions, and everything in between.You will find:Real mentoring conversations grounded in everyday practiceThoughtful questions and gentle reframes that shift perspectivePractical strategies you can take straight back into your weekSp
-
44
Season 5 Episode 9: Growing a Practice Without Losing Yourself
In this final episode of OT Coaching Confidential Season 5, I’m joined by Rochelle, an experienced paediatric occupational therapist who has recently taken a significant next step in her business journey. After years of building a strong trauma-informed paediatric caseload as a sole trader, Rochelle has just transitioned into company structure and brought on her first employee. What sounds exciting on paper also brings a very real shift in identity, workload, and responsibility. Alongside holding her own long-term caseload of children and families with complex trauma backgrounds, Rochelle is now navigating onboarding, supervision, service agreements, business systems, payroll, and the invisible emotional load of becoming the person responsible for both clients and another therapist. This conversation explores what happens in those first few weeks after your first hire, when your clinical work remains full but the business suddenly demands a whole new layer of leadership and structure. We explore: Transitioning from Sole Trader to Company Structure Onboarding and Supervising a First Therapist Building a Caseload Intentionally Rather Than Reactively The Emotional Load of Trauma-Informed Paediatric Practic Boundaries Around Phone Calls, Emails, and Crisis Communicatio Balancing Client Care with Business Sustainabilit Planning Systems for Future Growth Including Clinic and Admin Support Key takeaways: Your First Hire Changes Your Role as Much as Your Business Supervision Needs Clear Structure and Intentional Tapering Responsive Care Does Not Mean Being Constantly Available Boundaries Protect Both Clinician Wellbeing and Service Quality Sustainable Growth Requires Systems Before Expansion Mentioned in this episode: The Master Timetable / Paper Planning Tool The OT Coach Business Hub Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia. Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like support through supervision, business mentoring, or reflective practice, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you.
-
43
Season 5 Episode 8: Stepping Into Private Practice: Navigating Autonomy, Admin, and Sustainability in Mental Health OT
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, I’m joined by Marie, an experienced occupational therapist who has recently transitioned from hospital and community mental health into private practice. With over 15 years of experience, Marie reflects on the shift from structured public health roles into the autonomy of private work. While the transition has brought flexibility and creative freedom, it has also introduced new challenges particularly around business systems, financial management, and the invisible load of admin. Together, we explore what it really looks like to build a sustainable mental health OT practice while balancing clinical care, business responsibilities, and personal life. We explore: Transitioning from public mental health roles into private practice The emotional and cognitive load of managing admin, finances, and systems independently Navigating payment boundaries and discomfort around money conversations Structuring caseloads across NDIS, Medicare, and private clients Letting go of work streams that don’t align (e.g., functional capacity assessments) The tension between flexibility, family life, and financial sustainability Using tools (like AI and practice software) to reduce admin burden The difference between “being the therapist” and “running the business” Key takeaways: A smooth clinical transition doesn’t always mean a well-structured business foundation Discomfort around money is common and requires clear, consistent systems Not all work streams are worth keeping, alignment matters more than opportunity Admin overwhelm is often a mix of clinical and business tasks, not just “extra work” External accountability (deadlines, supervision, structure) supports follow-through Autonomy is powerful but requires intentional boundaries and decision-making AI and digital tools can reduce cognitive load when used intentionally Sustainable practice comes from aligning workload, income, and lifestyle priorities Mentioned in this episode: Halaxy practice management system (invoicing, Medicare, client management) ChatGPT and AI tools for documentation, planning, and communication “She’s on the Money” podcast (financial literacy and planning) The concept of separating you from the business when setting boundaries Virtual assistants vs. clinical admin realities Financial planning, payroll setup, and income structuring for private practitioners Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like support through supervision, business mentoring, or reflective practice, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you.
-
42
Season 5 Episode 7: Building a Values-Led Practice: Slowing Down, Backing Yourself, and Letting It Unfold
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, Alyce is joined by Sophia, an experienced occupational therapist who is navigating early private practice while holding the weight of past system reform, identity shifts, and changing personal priorities. With over a decade of experience across government disability services, hospitals, schools, and child development teams, Sophia reflects on how previous large-scale funding changes continue to shape her response to uncertainty today and how those experiences have also deeply strengthened her clinical reasoning and adaptability. Now running a small private practice alongside motherhood, she shares openly about reclaiming joy and creativity in her work, redefining professional success, and building a service that aligns with her values rather than external expectations. We explore Living at a point of clinical mastery and why familiarity can feel unsettling The emotional imprint of past system reform and how it resurfaces during current NDIS uncertainty Identity shifts as OT becomes part of life rather than the whole of it Neurodiversity-affirming, relational, and nervous-system-informed practice Transitioning from government services into values-based private practice Navigating Medicare, NDIS, and private funding without shrinking clinical ambition Contracting, intentionality, and clarity in parent-focused work Holding space, slowing down, and trusting professional judgement Building sustainability without pressure to grow faster than feels right Key takeaways Feeling unsettled at a point of competence is often a sign of growth, not failure You don’t need to know everything before stepping into private practice Intentional contracting supports confidence, boundaries, and clinical clarity Presence and relationship are powerful therapeutic tools Success in private practice can be defined by alignment, flexibility, and values not just income or growth Mentioned in this episode Alyce’s Caregiver Capacity Framework The Therapy Conversation Planning Tool Contracting and intentionality in therapy delivery Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia. Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like support through supervision, reflective practice, or business mentoring, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you.
-
41
Season 5 Episode 6: The Hidden Skills of Leadership: Supervision, Systems and Accountability
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, Alyce sits down with Jane, an experienced occupational therapist working in a Grade 3 leadership role within the public health system while also running her own private practice. After more than twenty years working across clinical roles, Jane recently stepped into a leadership position supervising a growing occupational therapy team. While continuing her own clinical work privately, she now also supports supervision, service development, and team leadership within a public health setting. This conversation explores the realities of stepping into leadership as an occupational therapist. Many therapists find that the transition from clinician to supervisor brings a new set of challenges, including navigating difficult conversations, supporting team development, and balancing competing responsibilities across clinical and leadership roles. Jane shares openly about the complexity of holding these roles while maintaining strong relationships within the team. We explore: The transition from clinician to leadership roles in occupational therapy Supervising and supporting a growing team Navigating difficult conversations within the workplace Balancing clinical work, supervision, and service development Supporting team performance while maintaining positive team culture This episode highlights how leadership in allied health often evolves gradually as therapists take on greater responsibility for supporting colleagues, developing services, and shaping team environments. Key Takeaways Stepping into leadership often changes the nature of work from primarily clinical to a combination of supervision, service development, and team support. Difficult conversations are a normal part of leadership and often become easier when supported by clear systems and expectations. Regular check-ins and structured supervision can help create space to address small challenges before they grow into larger issues. Supervision approaches often need to adapt to the different learning styles and experience levels of individual therapists. Leadership roles often require therapists to balance multiple responsibilities while supporting the growth and development of others. Mentioned in This Episode Michelle Bihari – Supervision and Leadership Training Toni Knight – Wellbeing for therapists Situational Leadership Model for adapting leadership style to clinician experience Zoom AI Companion for supervision summaries and documentation Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like support through supervision, business mentoring or reflective practice, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you.
-
40
Season 5 Episode 5: Serving the Community Beyond the Caseload
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, Alyce sits down with Mary, an occupational therapist running her own private practice across several rural towns. After stabilising her caseload and building systems that support sustainable rural service delivery, Mary finds herself asking a new question. Not how to build a practice, but how she can best serve her community beyond individual therapy sessions. Working in regional areas often means therapists see the gaps in services very clearly. Schools needing support, education assistants feeling overwhelmed, and limited access to professional development and therapy services. Mary shares how she is beginning to explore new ways to contribute to her community, including developing educator workshops that support school staff to better understand regulation, behaviour, and practical strategies for supporting students. We also explore the role rural therapists can play in growing the future workforce, including hosting student placements and increasing awareness of rural practice opportunities. This conversation reflects a common shift many therapists experience after building a stable service. Once the day-to-day clinical work is running well, new possibilities begin to emerge around education, mentoring, and community support. We explore: Moving from building a private practice to expanding community impact Supporting educators and school staff through workshops and training The realities and opportunities of rural occupational therapy practice Hosting student placements and strengthening the future workforce Recognising the expertise that comes from building a service independently Key takeaways Building a sustainable clinical caseload often creates space to explore broader community initiatives. Supporting the adults around the child can have a powerful impact on outcomes for children. Rural therapists often hold valuable knowledge about community needs that can inform education and training programs. Student placements can play an important role in increasing awareness of rural practice and strengthening local services. Therapists working independently may underestimate the expertise they have developed through building and sustaining a service. Mentioned in this episode: Educator workshops and school-based training Student placements in rural communities Master timetable and structured scheduling approaches for rural practice Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia. Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like support through supervision, business mentoring, or reflective practice, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you.
-
39
Season 5 episode 4: Building Sustainable Mental Health Practice and Growing Into Supervision
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, Alyce sits down with Paige, an occupational therapist working in adult mental health and psychosocial disability within the NDIS. Paige reflects on her pathway into OT, including beginning her career in NDIS LAC and community roles before moving into clinical mental health practice and establishing herself as a sole trader. With several years in practice, she shares how her early experience shaped her tolerance for complexity, her ability to manage open work streams, and the systems she now relies on to work sustainably. As her clinical work has consolidated, Paige finds herself at a point of professional recalibration. The conversation explores her growing interest in supervision, not as an add-on to clinical work, but as a distinct professional role that requires intention, structure, and clarity. Together, Alyce and Paige unpack how supervision mirrors good clinical practice: understanding the person in front of you, setting clear goals, recognising strengths, identifying areas for growth, and choosing when to teach, guide, or reflect based on developmental stage. They also discuss the importance of time containment, boundaries, and pacing, particularly when supporting others alongside a busy clinical caseload. We explore: Transitioning from NDIS LAC and community roles into clinical mental health OT Managing complexity, open work streams, and non-face-to-face demands Building systems that support focus, pacing, and sustainability Clarifying scope and role boundaries in mental health OT Stepping into supervision and navigating confidence shifts Treating supervision as a distinct professional service Using structure and time boundaries to support effective supervision Knowing when clinicians need teaching, guidance, or reflective space Key takeaways: Early career experiences strongly influence how clinicians manage complexity later on Sustainable mental health practice relies on structure and pacing, not just clinical skill Supervision works best when it is intentional, structured, and clearly bounded Different clinicians require different types of support at different stages Confidence often follows action, rather than preceding it Supporting others highlights professional knowledge we often underestimate Mentioned in this episode: Michelle Bihari and her work on supervision and contracting Occupational Therapy Australia Mental Health Capability Framework https://otaus.com.au/resources/mental-health-capability-framework The Client Snapshot Tool The Supervisors Space, a peer thinking and reflection space for supervisors run by Alyce and Claire Britton. Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia. Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like support through supervision, business mentoring, or reflective practice, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you.
-
38
Season 5 Episode 3: Finding Sustainability in Regional Private Practice
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, Alyce is joined by Ruby, an experienced occupational therapist working across a broad regional caseload while building her sole trader business alongside part-time hospital work. Ten years into her OT career and around 18 months into self-employment, Ruby reflects on what it has been like to grow quickly without a clear structure to hold the work. With paediatrics, driving assessments, NDIS work, and support at home all sitting under one business, she finds herself overbooked, stretched thin, and carrying too many competing priorities at once. Together, Alyce and Ruby unpack how overwhelm can emerge when growth outpaces planning. Rather than framing this as burnout, the conversation focuses on workload volume, blurred boundaries, extensive travel, and the absence of a clear plan for how different types of work fit together. This episode is a grounded, practical conversation for therapists who are established in private practice but feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of their caseload, unsure how to create clearer structure, and wanting to work in a way that feels more contained and sustainable. In this episode, we explore • The realities of regional practice and the impact of long travel days • Holding a mixed caseload and the cognitive load of constant context switching • How rapid growth can lead to overwhelm without clear systems • Treating reports, planning, and admin as protected clinical work • The tension between flexibility and sustainability in sole trader life • Making values-aligned decisions about scope, income streams, and capacity Practical recommendations discussed: • Using a master timetable to group similar work and reduce cognitive load • Protecting non face to face time so reports and planning are not booked over • Planning leave and catch-up time intentionally using a yearly calendar • Narrowing clinical scope to improve sustainability • Completing a time and task audit before seeking admin support • Staying connected with peers or mentors to avoid holding decisions internally Resources mentioned: • Getting the Admin Support You Actually Need – a workshop focused on clarifying support needs before outsourcing admin Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia. Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like support through supervision, business mentoring, or reflective practice, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you.
-
37
Season 5 Episode 2: Balancing Clinical Work, Creativity and What Comes Next
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, I’m joined by B, an experienced paediatric occupational therapist navigating a demanding and uncertain season of practice. After eight years as an OT and nearly five years running her own business, B reflects on the emotional load of long-term paediatric NDIS work, the pull toward creative and entrepreneurial projects, and the challenge of holding multiple professional roles at once. While she remains committed to clinical work, she’s questioning what kind of OT work feels sustainable and meaningful moving forward. We explore: Sitting at a point of clinical mastery where work feels familiar but draining The cumulative impact of relational, family-centred paediatric work Balancing NDIS-funded therapy with content creation and product development Delegation, boundaries, and the emotional pull to say yes to referrals Clarifying scope and expectations when working with families Key takeaways: Feeling tired or uncertain can be a sign of growth, not failure Narrowing focus does not mean closing doors permanently Clear boundaries and contracting support long-term sustainability Relational, family-centred work carries both meaning and emotional load Mentioned in this episode: Alyce’s Caregiver Capacity Framework (also available in Adapting Therapy to Support the Family workshop) The Therapy Conversation Planning Tool, for structuring complex or emotionally charged conversations Like-Minded Bitches Drink Wine (Facebook group), for product-based and entrepreneurial business development Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia. Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like support through supervision, business mentoring, or reflective practice, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you.
-
36
Season 5 Episode 1: Starting Private Practice with Clinical Experience and Good Intentions
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, Alyce sits down with Elsa, an experienced occupational therapist with over 15 years across hospital, community, leadership, and NDIS practice. Elsa shares her journey from working within structured hospital systems overseas, into community-based roles in Australia, followed by leadership and management positions, and more recently stepping into solo private practice. With a strong background in adult services, equipment prescription, and home modifications, she reflects on how her clinical experience has shaped the way she approaches private work with clarity, boundaries, and realistic expectations. This conversation explores what it looks like to start private practice later in your career, not from urgency or pressure, but with intention and self-awareness. Elsa speaks openly about cognitive load, scope clarity, admin overwhelm, and the importance of building systems that support both the clients and the therapist behind the service. We explore • Long-term career evolution and changing professional priorities • Starting private practice after years of clinical and leadership experience • Choosing clinical work that aligns with strengths and energy • Managing cognitive load, admin, and decision fatigue • Using a master timetable to support capacity and decision making • Planning time, PD, and rest as part of sustainable practice Key takeaways • Starting private practice later allows for clearer scope and stronger boundaries • Clinical experience supports more confident and ethical decision making • Cognitive load increases quickly in solo practice without intentional structure • A master timetable can significantly reduce mental load • Good intentions need systems to be sustainable Resources mentioned in this episode Master timetable Sensational Start to Private Practice Getting the Admin Support You Actually Need Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia. Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like support through supervision, business mentoring, or reflective practice, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you.
-
35
Building with Intention: Supervision, Sustainability and Leading Well with "Ezra"
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, Alyce sits down with Ezra an occupational therapist and small practice owner who’s committed to doing leadership differently. Ezra’s service supports clients across mental health and disability, and she’s actively mentoring both a new grad and early-career OT. With strong values and a reflective approach, she’s created a workplace where learning is intentional and supervision is embedded not tacked on. But as the business grows, so do the demands. Ezra is navigating the reality of holding others, managing her own caseload, and leading a service all while asking, what does sustainable leadership actually look like? We explore: Supporting early career therapists in real, sustainable ways Building rhythms and systems that reduce mental load Honouring psychological safety and emotional wellbeing Supervision, reflection, and protecting your own growth as a leader Key takeaways Supporting early career therapists takes structure, not just availability Supervision and reflection need protected time not just good intentions Sustainable systems must support the leader too Psychological safety matters for clients and clinicians Mentioned in this episode Michelle Bihari – Supervision & Leadership Resources Client Snapshot Tool - download here Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like support through supervision, business mentoring, or leadership development, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you. To express interest in being featured on a future episode of OT Coaching Confidential, apply at www.theotcoach.au/podcast-1
-
34
Supporting Therapists with Clarity and Confidence: A Mentoring Conversation with “Kane”
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, Alyce Svensk shares a real mentoring conversation with Kane - a thoughtful OT who has transitioned from paediatric clinical work into supervision and management. Together, they unpack what it looks like to support early-career therapists, hold professional boundaries, and navigate the realities of leadership in private practice. Kane reflects on finding balance between helping and over-helping, how to manage reports and proofing while still seeing clients, and the art of having tricky conversations with clarity and care. This conversation explores the real learning curve of supervision. How to lead with purpose, support growth without losing yourself in the process, and keep your work grounded in empathy and reflection. You’ll Hear About • The shift from clinician to supervisor and manager • Supporting early-career therapists without over-helping • Contracting clearly with supervisees and families • Balancing caseloads, reports, and leadership responsibilities • Building confidence for difficult conversations • Using the Caregiver Capacity Scale to adapt therapy to fit each family’s capacity Key Takeaways Supervision isn’t about having every answer it’s about creating space for reflection, learning, and growth. Boundaries and clarity are essential for sustainable leadership. Frameworks like contracting, structured feedback, and the Caregiver Capacity Scale help therapists tailor support that fits both clients and teams. Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like to work with Alyce Svensk through mentoring, supervision, or professional development, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you. To express interest in being featured on a future episode of OT Coaching Confidential, apply at www.theotcoach.au/podcast-1.
-
33
Finding Fit and Meaning in Mental Health: A Mentoring Conversation with "Al"
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, Alyce Svensk shares a real mentoring conversation with Al - a mature-age graduate whose path to occupational therapy began with degrees in writing and marketing, and evolved through a pivot into the health field during COVID. Together, they unpack Al’s discovery of OT after exploring nursing, how a youth mental health placement cemented his clinical fit, and the ongoing challenge of finding roles that value the full scope of occupational therapy. Al shares how enforced reflection, systemic observation, and critical thinking have shaped his practice along with a desire to work in settings that see OT as more than just functional assessments. This is a thoughtful and validating episode for any therapist questioning fit, navigating scope limitations, or figuring out how to practise meaningfully in systems that don’t always understand what we do. You’ll Hear About • Al’s transition from the creative industries to the health space • Discovering OT through patterns of thought and problem-solving in nursing • The power of a youth mental health placement to confirm clinical direction • Navigating misalignment in roles where OT is misunderstood or undervalued • Using solo reflection time as an unexpected form of supervision Key Takeaways You don’t need to fit a traditional mould to thrive in this profession. Finding your clinical “home” often starts with noticing what feels like a mismatch. And reflective practice isn’t extra — it’s foundational. Mentioned in this Episode • Robbie B – The Online OT for mental health OT training pathways and a supportive professional community • How to Choose Your Next OT Role - a practical workshop by Alyce Svensk & Nikki Cousins to help you evaluate supervision, scope, and service alignment when navigating career choices Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like to work with Alyce Svensk through mentoring, supervision, or professional development, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you. To express interest in being featured on a future episode of OT Coaching Confidential, apply at www.theotcoach.au/podcast-1
-
32
Building a Practice That Works for You (and Your Family): A Mentoring Conversation with “Hazel”
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, Alyce Svensk shares a real mentoring conversation with Hazel a mature-age early career OT who brings deep lived experience, clarity, and care to her sole trader practice. Together, they unpack how her journey into OT was shaped by 18 years of parenting and caregiving, how she built strong systems to support her growth when supervision was limited, and why she’s now prioritising sustainability over scale. Hazel has developed a small, structured service that works for her family and honours the kind of therapist she wants to be. This is a reflective and reassuring episode for any OT wondering if it’s possible to grow your practice slowly, intentionally, and without burning out. You’ll Hear About • Returning to OT as a mature-age student with a long-held professional goal • Navigating early roles with supervision gaps and building your own systems • Designing a part-time, term-based practice that protects energy • Reframing supervision and parent coaching to reflect your own style • Using structure and boundaries as tools for growth not limitation Key Takeaways Sustainable practice isn’t second-best it’s often the most intentional form of success. You can grow clinical confidence without rushing and your values can lead the way. Mentioned in this Episode ✔ The Art of Paediatric Therapy – for paeds clinical confidence and structured planning ✔ The OT Coach Academy – Paediatric Hub – for weekly support and practical resources ✔ Sensational Start to Private Practice – for finances, systems, and service foundations ✔ Caregiver Capacity Scale – to reflect and communicate around family engagement ✔ Paper-based timetables, bounce-back emails, and realistic admin planning strategies Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like to work with Alyce Svensk through mentoring, supervision, or professional development, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you. To express interest in being featured on a future episode of OT Coaching Confidential, apply at www.theotcoach.au/podcast-1
-
31
OT Week 2025: Building a Business You’d Actually Want to Work For: A Mentoring Conversation with “Ella”
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, Alyce Svensk shares a real mentoring conversation with Ella, a paediatric and young adult OT who brings deep intentionality to her solo practice. Together, they unpack how chronic illness shaped her career journey, why she’s redefining supervision and professional development as business essentials, and how she’s navigating the tension between flexibility and financial sustainability. This is a grounded, reflective episode for any therapist seeking to do private work differently and sustainably. This episode provides space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the kind of therapist you want to be. Whether you’re early in your career, leading a team, or building your own service. You’ll Hear About • Building a solo practice that protects energy and supports long-term sustainability • Reframing PD and supervision as essential business overheads • Exploring new business offerings that are nourishing, not just billable • “What if your business was a job you’d actually want to apply for?” Key Takeaways You don’t need to follow a traditional path for your practice to be successful, but you do need to be clear on what success looks like for you. Treating learning, reflection, and support as business essentials (not luxuries) can help you sustain your work and yourself long term. Mentioned in this episode Beki Eakins for inspiration around diversifying your OT income through supervision and training offerings. Find her podcast and offerings at www.bekieakins.com Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Supporting occupational therapists and allied health professionals to build confidence, clarity, and connection through mentoring, supervision, workshops, and The OT Coach Academy. If this conversation resonated with you and you’d like to work with Alyce Svensk through mentoring, supervision, or professional development, visit www.theotcoach.au to explore how The OT Coach Australia can support you. To express interest in being featured on a future episode of OT Coaching Confidential, apply at www.theotcoach.au/podcast-1
-
30
Season 3 Episode 8: Building Confidence in the Early Years of Practice with Nikki
In this episode, we chat with Nikki an early career OT who’s navigating her first year in practice with confidence, reflection and a clear sense of direction. After entering the profession with previous experience in the disability sector, Nikki began working as a contractor before moving into sole trader work offering a well-defined service. Now, she’s intentionally seeking an employed role that offers strong supervision and collaborative learning – building both roles side-by-side to grow her skills in a sustainable way. We explore: The realities of stepping into private work earlier than planned What to look for in supervision and team culture Navigating confidence, capability and scope in the first year Building referral networks and professional visibility The balance between autonomy and ongoing learning This is a thoughtful and grounded conversation about early practice, professional identity, and choosing growth with intention. Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Alyce Svensk is an experienced paediatric occupational therapist, business mentor and founder of The OT Coach Australia. She supports therapists at all stages of their career whether you're just starting out, building a business or redefining your next chapter. Through The OT Coach Australia, Alyce offers career mentoring, business Solutions Sessions, and ongoing support through clinical supervision, business mentoring and sole trader guidance. Need support with your next step in practice or business? Explore your options at www.theotcoach.au
-
29
Season 3 Episode 7: From Side Hustle to Something Bigger Tanya’s Accidental Business Expansion
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, we meet Tanya an experienced OT who made the shift from public health to private work in search of better balance and flexibility. What started as a handful of clients quickly snowballed into a full-blown service, a small team of contractors, and the realities of running a business. Tanya shares honestly about the challenges of scaling without a clear plan, navigating financial pressures, juggling clinical and business demands, and learning to set stronger boundaries in service delivery. We talk about managing complex psychosocial caseloads, the limitations of non-attendance policies in outreach services, and why working on the business is just as critical as working in it. Together we unpack strategies for purposeful delegation, identifying admin support needs, and carving out protected time to refocus. This conversation is a must-listen for any OT navigating growth in their private practice. Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Alyce Svensk is an experienced paediatric occupational therapist, business mentor and founder of The OT Coach Australia. She supports therapists at all stages of their career whether you're just starting out, building a business or redefining your next chapter. Through The OT Coach Australia, Alyce offers career mentoring, business Solutions Sessions, and ongoing support through clinical supervision, business mentoring and sole trader guidance. Need support with your next step in practice or business? Explore your options at www.theotcoach.au
-
28
Season 3 Episode 6: From Burnout to Boundaries Michelle's OT Evolution
In this episode, we meet Michelle, a regional paediatric OT who transitioned from burnout in a large organisation to building her own therapy service. We explore the early years of business setup without clear mentorship, and the challenges of managing a long-term stagnant caseload while juggling a full-time mobile therapy load and motherhood. Together, we unpack strategies for sustainable practice: Shifting to term-based therapy planning Using contracting conversations with families to define what therapy is and isn’t Introducing goal-specific caseload mapping (top-down, bottom-up, holding space) Building in protected non-face-to-face time and defining when and why we do the extra Identifying whether admin should be outsourced or simply restructured Michelle reflects on her goals for the next chapter and what she’d do differently if she were starting again. Resources mentioned throughout: Master timetable Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia. Alyce Svensk is an experienced paediatric occupational therapist, business mentor and founder of The OT Coach Australia. She supports therapists at all stages of their career whether you're just starting out, building a business or redefining your next chapter. Need support with your next step in practice or business? Explore your options at www.theotcoach.au
-
27
Season 3 Episode 5: Seven Weeks In and Fully Booked - OT, Play Therapy and Doing It All Solo with Jane
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, I sit down with Jane, an experienced occupational therapist and trained play therapist who has just launched her own private practice. Seven weeks in and already full, Jane shares the early realities of running a solo service - from navigating boundaries and managing emotional load, to thinking ahead about admin support and long-term sustainability. We explore what it means to create “service rules” that protect your energy, the benefits of introducing a virtual assistant early, and how to streamline referral pathways so your time stays focused on therapy — not inbox admin. Jane also reflects on her dual pathways (OT and play therapy), and how being intentional from the start can help you build a service that aligns with your values, capacity, and lifestyle. Whether you're just starting out or looking to reset how your service is structured, this episode is packed with practical insight and thoughtful reflection. Mentioned in this episode: – Getting the Admin Support You Actually Need Workshop – The Master Timetable tool – Creating “service rules” to help manage referrals and expectations Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Alyce Svensk is an experienced paediatric occupational therapist, business mentor and founder of The OT Coach Australia. She supports therapists at all stages of their career whether you're just starting out, building a business or redefining your next chapter. Through The OT Coach Australia, Alyce offers career mentoring, business Solutions Sessions, and ongoing support through clinical supervision, business mentoring and sole trader guidance. Need support with your next step in practice or business? Explore your options at www.theotcoach.au
-
26
Season 3 Episode 4: Claudia’s Story: Reclaiming Clinical Identity and Evolving with the Sector
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, I chat with Claudia, an Occupational Therapist whose journey into OT began later in life and has taken some fascinating turns. From setting out to be a brilliant clinician, Claudia found herself unexpectedly drawn into the business support space - building a service designed to help solo OTs streamline their non-clinical tasks and free up their time to focus on therapy. We explore: The reality of working as a solo OT and how the “$193/hour” perception doesn't reflect the hidden workload Claudia’s shift from doing everything herself to hiring admin staff and creating scalable systems Her deep interest in mental health and psychosocial OT, and the importance of supervision and training when shifting scopes The evolving nature of the NDIS and the impact of recent changes on service delivery and therapist sustainability How Claudia’s business was born out of the exact admin frustrations she sought to escape and how she’s now helping others reclaim their time Thoughts on innovation, rural/remote access, and why “just keep turning up” has become her guiding mantra Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Alyce Svensk is an experienced paediatric occupational therapist, business mentor and founder of The OT Coach Australia. She supports therapists at all stages of their career - whether you're just starting out, building a business or redefining your next chapter. Through The OT Coach Australia, Alyce offers career mentoring, business Solutions Sessions, and ongoing support through clinical supervision, business mentoring and sole trader guidance. Need support with your next step in practice or business? Explore your options at www.theotcoach.au
-
25
Season 3 Episode 3: Falling Into Private Practice: Anna’s Shift from Health to Business Owner
In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, I chat with Anna, an Occupational Therapist working in the adult space with a growing private practice focused on chronic fatigue, Long COVID and invisible illness. We explore: Transitioning from public health into private practice (and the culture shock that can come with it) The discomfort around charging for therapy and how Anna is starting to claim the value of her time and experience Developing a therapy model that works in a flexible yet sustainable way - including clearer session structures, communication boundaries, and client pathways Using tools like Halaxy and Google Workspace with privacy in mind Strategies for growing a caseload, setting up referral systems, and building long-term client relationships Creative ideas for reducing admin load and building group or maintenance-style support in the future We also discuss my workshop Sensational Start in Private Practice Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Alyce Svensk is an experienced paediatric occupational therapist, business mentor and founder of The OT Coach Australia. She supports therapists at all stages of their career, whether you're just starting out, building a business or redefining your next chapter. Through The OT Coach Australia, Alyce offers career mentoring, business Solutions Sessions, and ongoing support through clinical supervision, business mentoring and sole trader guidance. Need support with your next step in practice or business? Explore your options at www.theotcoach.au
-
24
Season 3 Episode 2: Building Something Different, On Your Own Terms with Jamie
In this episode, we chat with Jamie - a regional paediatric OT who’s blending community therapy with the launch of a sensory-friendly café. Jamie shares her unique career journey. From early roles in aged care and burns to leading services across rural and remote settings. Now running her own business, she reflects on the challenges of working solo in a large region, the realities of clinical burnout, and how she’s building a new model of service delivery rooted in flexibility, family values and neurodiversity-affirming practice. We explore: Starting over in a new region The headspace required to run both a clinic and a café Balancing solo work, motherhood and executive function Using AI tools with caution and intention in clinical practice Reframing creativity and rest for business owners This is an honest and insightful conversation about burnout, boundaries and bringing new ideas to life. Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Alyce Svensk is an experienced paediatric occupational therapist, business mentor and founder of The OT Coach Australia. She supports therapists at all stages of their career - whether you're just starting out, building a business or redefining your next chapter. Through The OT Coach Australia, Alyce offers career mentoring, business Solutions Sessions, and ongoing support through clinical supervision, business mentoring and sole trader guidance. Need support with your next step in practice or business? Explore your options at www.theotcoach.au
-
23
Season 3 Episode 1: Redefining Success in Private Practice with Lisa
In this episode, we chat with Lisa, an experienced OT working in the neuro, palliative care, and driving assessment space, who took the leap into private practice after recognising the traditional model wasn't sustainable for her life or values. Lisa reflects on how she built a business that works for her family, her energy, and her clients. She shares honestly about letting go of the internalised version of “success” that many of us hold, including the idea that we need a clinic or a full-time admin team to be legitimate. Together we explore: Moving from burnout to boundaries Building a schedule that works with, not against, your life The mental load of perfectionism and redefining success Delegating admin tasks and navigating VA support The tension between wanting a clinic and actually needing one Why sustainability, not busyness, is the real measure of success We also chat about what kind of support actually helps in business, including the role of clinical supervisors, business mentors, and emotional support. Alyce shares practical strategies like time tracking, defining what support you actually need, and accessing free state-based business coaching. Mentioned in this episode: Alyce’s free eBook “Reframing Success in Allied Health” https://www.theotcoach.au/pl/2148657871 Toni Knight, a psychotherapist and supervisor who works with OTs on burnout, perfectionism, and building emotionally sustainable careers. Connect with Toni at or email her at Toni Knight | Burnout Recovery & Personal Transformation Coaching Brought to you by Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia Alyce Svensk is an experienced paediatric occupational therapist, business mentor and founder of The OT Coach Australia. She supports therapists at all stages of their career, whether you're just starting out, building a business or redefining your next chapter. Through The OT Coach Australia, Alyce offers career mentoring, business Solutions sessions, and ongoing support through clinical supervision, business mentoring and sole trader guidance. Need support with your next step in practice or business? Explore your options at theotcoach.au
-
22
Season 2 Episode 10: Growing a Team, Holding Your Values: A Conversation on Leadership and Change with Isabelle and Paige
Summary For the final episode of Season 2, I’m joined by Isabelle and Paige. Co-founders of a paediatric OT service built on shared values, strong team culture, and thoughtful, reflective leadership. We explore the realities of growing a team, supporting clinicians across sites, and navigating change. Including how they’re preparing for one founder to relocate while maintaining connection and cohesion. We also cover practical tools and strategies including: Zoom-based supervision with transcript summaries Structuring sustainable workloads for new graduates Creating space for supervision to feel meaningful (not rushed!) Planning future clinic expansion without overcommitting Using ChatGPT for service planning and content ideas This is a beautiful, grounded conversation for any therapist reflecting on leadership, growth, or staying aligned with their “why.” If you’ve loved this season and would like to be a guest on a future episode of OT Coaching Confidential, I’d love to hear from you. Register your interest OTCC Podcast EOI Hosted by: Alyce Svensk The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
21
Season 2 Episode 9: Finding Your Clinical Voice: Boundaries, Confidence, and Doing Things Differently with J
Summary: In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, I sit down with J, an early-career paediatric occupational therapist who is working hard to bridge the gap between clinical training and real-world therapy. J shares what it’s like to feel well-trained but still unsure — navigating multiple models, complex family dynamics, and unclear expectations in NDIS-funded therapy. Together, we explore: The challenge of integrating approaches like DIR/Floortime, CO-OP, and SOS Therapy contracting and how to explain your “why” to families Setting boundaries early in your career How supervision can help build clarity and confidence Developing your clinical voice when things feel uncertain This episode is an honest reflection for any OT working in paediatrics who’s still piecing it all together — especially in those early years where growth often happens outside the textbooks. We have various workshops coming up that address some of the practice areas discussed Caregiver Capacity Using a coregulation approach in therapy The Art of Paediatric Therapy – Live July 2025 Hosted by: Alyce Svensk The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
20
Season 2 Episode 8: Figuring Out Time, Boundaries, and Working for Yourself with Taylor
Summary In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, I sit down with Taylor, an Occupational Therapist who has moved through hospital rotations, mental health, and now community-based NDIS work. She’s built strong clinical confidence - but is now planning how to run her own business! Taylor shares her reflections on navigating time pressures, unclear expectations around billables, and the early stages of considering what working for herself might look like. Together, we explore: What it feels like to be confident clinically but still unsure of your direction. Managing time and ensuring you are billing effectively across a mixed caseload. How sole trading is often the next step for building a professional practice that aligns with your professional values. Why reflecting on what doesn’t work can help shape what comes next. This thoughtful, real conversation is for any therapist who’s built something solid—but is starting to wonder what comes after “getting good at the job.” Resources: We didn't speak about this during the pod - but Verve OT Learning has a great workshop about billable time Navigating Billable Time & the NDIS Spreadsheet Hosted by: Alyce Svensk The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
19
Season 2: Episode 7 Building a Business That Works for You – Not the Other Way Around with Jess
Summary In this episode of OT Coaching Confidential, I sit down with Jess, a sole trader OT with a decade of experience and a clear vision for the kind of business—and life—she wants to build. Jess shares her journey from early NDIS work to leadership roles, and eventually, stepping back into sole trading for the flexibility it offered her growing family. We unpack the complexity of doing it all—functional assessments, home mods, assistive tech, reports, supervision, student placements, and dreaming up bigger things like subcontracting and building her own team. Together, we explore: The challenge of wearing all the hats as a sole trader Pricing, self-worth, and saying no to unaligned opportunities Structuring time and caseloads to avoid burnout Why supervision and teaching are core to her future goals Navigating student placements and early-stage hiring plans The tricky reality of juggling family, admin, and ambition This honest, relatable episode is full of practical reflection for anyone building a service on their own terms—especially if you're craving a slower pace, but dreaming big. Resources: Sample Diary - https://alyce-svensk.mykajabi.com/pl/2148656142 Hosted by: Alyce Svensk The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
18
Season 2 Episode 6: From supervisee to sole trader life with Abigail
Summary: Abigail didn’t plan to go solo—but after workplace changes, she found herself taking on private clients while figuring out her next steps. In this episode, we talk through the reality of stepping into sole trader work without a long-term plan, and the importance of pausing to reflect before making big career moves. We explore how supervision, curiosity, and practical self-awareness have shaped Abigail’s growth, and why it’s essential to think ahead—especially in paediatrics, where going solo comes with long-term responsibilities. Big Takeaway: Private work might seem like a flexible option, but especially in paediatrics, it’s not something to leap into lightly. Take time to clarify your vision, scope, and systems before making the move. Curious about private work but not sure where to start? Check out my Sensational Start to Private Practice workshop—it walks you through all the essential decisions before you leap, so you can start with confidence and clarity. https://www.verveotlearning.com.au/Sensational-Start-to-Setting-Up-in-Private-Practice Looking for your next role: This free workshop will chat through the considerations https://sensationalstart-au.zoom.us/rec/share/_cibZYCX7zsb62REFhGAPbnAuyUrI0z1eD0jM6Dw5-Du8rx336kij2iy51wOQqoG.u5U2YGdrbIYLEhnU Hosted by: Alyce Svensk The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
17
Season 2 Episode 5: Missy – Strengthening Clinical Confidence & Exploring Growth Pathways
Summary: After two years of building confidence in managing a mixed caseload and refining her clinical practice, Missy is now considering her next professional challenge—exploring whether a Master of Research could fit into her career growth. But how do you take on something new without overcommitting or disrupting the balance you’ve worked hard to achieve? In this episode, we explore: How Missy developed confidence in caseload management and structured her workload more effectively Balancing clinical work with professional growth – Creating space for new challenges while maintaining sustainability Exploring research as a potential pathway – How to trial research involvement before committing to a full degree Practical decision-making strategies – Considering workload, personal commitments, and long-term goals before taking the next step Resources & Strategies Discussed:Caseload Management Documents & Time-Tracking Tools – Practical ways to visualize workload and ensure time for growth opportunitiesClient Snapshot Approach – A method to track active cases, streamline workflow, and ensure balance across different client needsTimetable Strategies for Private Work – How to structure work blocks to account for billable and non-billable tasks effectively Big Takeaway: This episode is packed with insights on how to explore new opportunities while maintaining confidence in your current role. If you’ve been thinking about expanding your career but are unsure how to balance it with clinical practice, this conversation will help you reflect, plan, and move forward with confidence. Hosted by: Alyce SvenskThe OT Coach Australiawww.theotcoach.au
-
16
Season 2 Episode 4: Building a Sustainable Mobile OT Practice with Andy
Summary: Starting and growing a mobile OT practice is completely different from working as a clinician. In this episode, Andy shares her journey in the early stages of business setup, balancing metro and rural service delivery, and navigating the challenges of caseload management, business growth, and sustainability. We discuss: The biggest mindset shifts when transitioning from clinician to business owner • The challenges of balancing generalist vs. specialist work in a mobile OT service • Why structured intake systems and caseload tracking are essential for sustainability • How to avoid admin overload and manage report writing, referrals, and billing more effectively • Exploring therapy assistant models to support rural service delivery Big takeaway: Growing a mobile OT business requires clear boundaries, structured processes, and a sustainable caseload. You don’t have to figure it all out alone—mentorship, business coaching, and external support can make a world of difference! Listen now and learn practical strategies for structuring a mobile OT practice that works for you. Hosted by: Alyce Svensk The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
15
Season 2 Episode 3: Leadership & Business Growth with Peter
Episode Summary: Running a business and leading a team is completely different from clinical work. In this episode, Peter shares what he’s learned after years in leadership and business ownership. We discuss: • The biggest mindset shifts when moving from clinician, to business owner, to leader • Why business coaching and external supports are essential for growth and these needs may change over time. • How to step back from the day-to-day and let your business work for you Big takeaway: Business ownership is a skill that requires a growth mindset —you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Try and find someone to guide you through the journey! Hosted by: Alyce Svensk The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
14
Season 2 Episode 2: Navigating the First Weeks as a New Grad OT with Addy
Episode Summary: Starting your first OT job is a huge transition. After years of structured university learning, suddenly you’re expected to make clinical decisions, manage a caseload, and figure out your therapy approach—on your own. This week’s guest, Addy, is a brand-new OT navigating her first few weeks in paediatrics. She’s highly self-aware, and while that’s a strength, it can also make the transition even more overwhelming when you focus too much on what you don’t know. We cover: • The importance of knowing your own learning style • How self-awareness can be both a strength and a challenge • Why supervisors need to ask the right questions—not just assume a new grad is thriving Big takeaway: New grads don’t need to know everything straight away. Confidence comes with time and experience! Early Career Clinical Resource - https://alyce-svensk.mykajabi.com/pl/2148656146 Sample Diary - https://alyce-svensk.mykajabi.com/pl/2148656142 Client Snapshot Tool - https://alyce-svensk.mykajabi.com/pl/2148656130 Hosted by: Alyce Svensk The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
13
Season 2 Episode 1: Turning Creativity into a Side Hustle with Renee
Many OTs love creating therapy resources, but how do you turn that passion into a business? In this episode, Renee shares her journey of balancing full-time OT work while growing a successful side hustle in therapy resource development. We discuss: • The challenges of pricing and valuing your time • How to set realistic expectations for a side business vs. a full business • Some strategies to use when supporting a national clinical team. Big takeaway: Whether you’re thinking about creating resources, starting a business, or simply want to hear how another OT has done it, this episode is full of insights! Hosted by: Alyce Svensk The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
12
From Student to OT: Navigating Your New Grad Year with Confidence
The episode features Claire, a new graduate occupational therapist, preparing for her first OT role. Claire shares her journey to studying OT and preparing for her new graduate role. The discussion covers: Transition Challenges: Moving from student to professional, imposter syndrome, and learning to manage professional relationships and caseloads. Strengths & Growth Areas: Recognizing her strong communication and relationship-building skills while navigating new industry-specific expectations. Time & Caseload Management: Strategies such as the "client snapshot tool" for tracking cases and separating general admin from clinical management tasks. Self-Care & Boundaries: Managing cognitive fatigue, avoiding perfectionism, setting boundaries around work-life balance, and strategies to prevent burnout. Confidence in Clinical Decision-Making: Encouraging Claire to trust her knowledge, present her reasoning when asking questions, and recognize her growth throughout the year. Resources to download: Early Career Clinical Resource - https://alyce-svensk.mykajabi.com/pl/2148656146 Client Snapshot Tool - https://alyce-svensk.mykajabi.com/pl/2148656130 Hosted Alyce Svensk The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
11
Leadership, Imposter Syndrome, and Navigating Professional Growth Conversations
In this episode, "Franco" opens up about his journey in leadership, addressing imposter syndrome while supporting therapists with diverse learning needs. We explore how to manage professional growth conversations and provide constructive feedback in the workplace. This session offers strategies for fostering team development, handling self-doubt, and navigating leadership challenges with confidence. It’s a valuable episode for therapists in management roles looking to improve their leadership skills and effectively support their workforce.
-
10
Building a Mobile Therapy Service While Maintaining a Niche Focus
In this episode, "Sarah" and I reflect on the challenges of expansion and explore strategies for ensuring the core of her practice remains intact. Additionally, we discuss how to foster beautiful team cohesion as her service grows. This episode is filled with practical ideas, and reflections for therapists seeking to balance growth with maintaining a strong, unified team and a clear clinical focus. Hosted Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
9
Reflecting on Providing External Supervision Across Australia
In this reflective episode, "Agatha" explores how to provide effective external supervision to therapists across Australia. Rather than focusing on business growth, the conversation centers on the practical considerations and challenges of offering supervision remotely. We discuss the logistics, maintaining connection with supervisees, and ensuring high-quality supervision when working with therapists in different locations. This episode offers valuable insights for those considering or already offering external supervision as part of their practice. Hosted Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
8
Navigating Private Practice While Managing Chronic Illness
In this episode, "Rosie" shares her journey of navigating private practice while managing chronic illness and neurodiversity. The session explores ideas surrounding how to streamline services, where to allocate energy and time effectively, and what it means to serve a community in a sustainable way while staying true to your personal and professional values. Rosie reflects on the challenges of balancing personal health with professional growth, offering valuable insights for others in similar situations. A reflective episode for OTs considering moving in to private clinical work while managing health concerns. Hosted Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
7
Balancing Leadership, Supervision, and a New Clinical Scope
In this episode, "Kate" shares her experience of professional growth in a leadership role, juggling the many hats of management, leadership, and supervision, while also maintaining a clinical caseload and exploring a new scope of practice. We discuss strategies for balancing these responsibilities, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring continued growth as both a leader and clinician. This episode is perfect for therapists stepping into leadership roles who want to manage multiple responsibilities effectively while expanding their clinical expertise. Hosted Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
6
Exploring Maternity Leave and Clinical Role Transitions
In this episode, "Chelsea" and I explore strategies for navigating maternity leave while managing a clinical caseload. We dive into how to plan for a smooth transition, ensure effective client care, and balance personal and professional demands. We also consider the challenges of leaving a clinical role and ensuring that care is well-managed during transitions when there is not a clear handover option available. This episode is perfect for clinicians preparing for life transitions while maintaining professional responsibilities. Hosted Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
5
Transitioning from Employment to Private Practice: Navigating Challenges and Building Sustainability
In this episode, "Rachel" reflects on her transition from an employed role to setting up her own private practice, sharing the challenges she faced in the first year. We explore the importance of creating a strong business plan, incorporating therapy assistants into her service delivery model, and effectively serving a community while maintaining sustainability. Rachel offers insights into balancing her new responsibilities as a business owner while ensuring her practice remains focused on providing high-quality care. A must-listen for anyone considering the leap from employment to entrepreneurship. Hosted Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
4
Managing Diverse Caseloads and Developing Clinical Pathways in Regional Practice
In this episode, "Jennifer" shares her experience of managing mixed and diverse caseloads in a regional or remote area. We explore strategies for navigating the variety of client needs, developing a clear clinical pathways, and building confidence as a clinician in this unique environment. The episode provides practical advice for therapists looking to create structured clinical approaches while managing the complexities of rural practice. Perfect for those working in regional areas who want to refine their clinical pathways, manage diverse caseloads and professionally continue to grow while maintaining a primary role as clinician. Hosted Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
3
Exploring Future Plans for Private Practice After Health Sector Work
In this episode, "Holly" is in the early stages of considering a move into private practice after working in the health sector. We discuss the key factors to think about when transitioning to private work, including how to make it sustainable, plan for growth, and balance personal goals, such as family demands. Holly reflects on her long-term goals and the steps she might take to turn those ideas into a future reality. This episode is perfect for OTs who are exploring the possibility of private practice but aren’t ready to make the leap just yet. Hosted Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
2
Managing Paediatric Caseloads and Professional Growth
In this episode, "Anne," a new to paediatric OT, looks for guidance on managing her caseload and professional development while ensuring she completes her work within designated work hours. We explore practical strategies for caseload organisation, time management, and setting boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Anne shares her experiences and challenges in balancing her professional growth with the demands of a busy pediatric caseload. This episode is perfect for OTs aiming to stay efficient and grow their practice while preserving personal time. Hosted Alyce Svensk at The OT Coach Australia www.theotcoach.au
-
1
Welcome to the OT Coaching Confidential
In the first episode of OT Coaching Confidential, you will meet your host Alyce Svensk and hear an overview of the podcast and its purpose. The series is designed to provide real, honest mentoring sessions for occupational therapists at different stages of their careers. This podcast aims to create a space for OTs to feel connected, supported, and inspired as they navigate their professional journeys. Each episode will focus on a different OT, offering insights into their professional challenges and growth, allowing others in similar situations to learn and apply the lessons shared. In this episode you will hear Alyce reflect and share her own professional journey, starting as a pediatric occupational therapist and founding her practice, Sensational Start. Along the way, developing a passion for supporting other therapists, leading workshops, training programs, and various supervision and growth programs. Now, through The OT Coach Australia, Alyce's focus is on mentoring, providing supervision, and empowering therapists to build confidence in their careers—whether in clinical practice, private business, or leadership roles. Brought to you by The OT Coach Australia. www.otcoach.au
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
OT Coaching Confidential - Real conversations. Real growth. Real therapists. Real world.OT Coaching Confidential is a mentoring podcast for occupational therapists and allied health professionals who want honest insight, genuine reflection, and the reassurance that they are not navigating this work alone. Each episode is a real, unscripted one-on-one mentoring session between host Alyce Svensk and an anonymous guest. An honest conversation about where they are right now, what they are working through, and what it looks and feels like to grow as a therapist and professional.Topics span the full breadth of practice life: clinical complexity, building confidence, managing a caseload, stepping into leadership, navigating private practice, career transitions, and everything in between.You will find:Real mentoring conversations grounded in everyday practiceThoughtful questions and gentle reframes that shift perspectivePractical strategies you can take straight back into your weekSp
HOSTED BY
The OT Coach Australia
Loading similar podcasts...