External Supervision for Occupational Therapists
The value of external supervision
As committed clinicians, OTs work hard to achieve their degree and then build a career. While supervision is provided in the workplace, it does not always meet the needs of the supervisee. Sometimes more time, a different approach or skillset is needed.
Supervision done well is individualised, working to build skills across professional and clinical skills. It can’t help but touch on personal skills including the valuable skill of maintaining wellbeing. Learning to balance both a work day and a career in a way that remains emotionally and energetically sustainable is crucial. Being supported by someone with experience offers the teaching of new clinical skills, and years of practice brings exposure to mistakes to learn and grow from.
Why offer external supervision
Beth Dermer offers a limited number of one-on-one supervision sessions with a particular focus on supporting new and recent graduates. It’s really important that OTs new to their career can see their place in it, see the possibilities and be given the tools to thrive.
A growing career should feel exciting and full of possibilities.
As an employer of OTs for over 20 years, Beth has witnessed a shift in the support offered to new clinicians in terms of quality (experience of the supervisor) as well as frequency.
Every OT deserves the opportunity to thrive and love their career!
Clinical and supervisory experience
Beth started her career (graduating 1997) in the hospital system, working in orthopaedics, general medical, hands and community clinics (wheelchair prescription, cardiac rehab and arthritis support). She spent 10 years working in rehabilitation, primarily neurological as well as working across lower limb amputee units in NSW and QLD. As a senior clinician, she worked in acute stroke and brain injury and supervised staff across rehabilitation, ICU and Emergency. She has taught neurological rehabilitation to OT, Physio and Nursing students.
Having a strong interest in supervision of students and staff, Beth completed a Graduate Certificate in Clinical Education and held the position of Clinical Education Coordinator for the PA Hospital in QLD. She has held three honorary titles from Universities in recognition of her work with OT students.
In 2006, Beth started DOTS Allied Health, employing OTs for over 20 years who work in community OT under DVA, Aged Care (Support at Home) and NDIS funding. In 2011, Beth started a mobile paediatrics practice, growing to three clinics and a team of OTs. Beth advocates strongly for her business to operate as a teaching space, carefully supporting clinical placements wherever possible.
Enquiries
Enquiries for External Supervision can be made via the DOTS team on 07 3114 9445 or admin@dotshealth.com.au.
To find out if Beth is the right supervisor for you, get in touch to plan a free 15-minute chat.