Occupational therapists: An ally to the eating disorder team

This webinar is delivered in collaboration with NWMPHN's Right Care, Right Place project, Mental Health Professionals Network and Eating Disorders Victoria.

Occupational therapists play a significant role in the field of eating disorders. They assess the impact of eating disorders on a person’s daily life and their family. This includes their ability to engage in meaningful and important activities such as self-care, school, work, leisure activities and social interactions. Engagement in these activities can enhance or re-establish important life skills and roles; supporting the development of a strong and supportive social network. Through a client-centred approach, occupational therapists use a range of evidence-based interventions to support recovery in the person’s meaningful environments.

Drawing on evidence, clinical practice, and knowledge of service model development, this presentation will use real-life examples to illustrate how occupational therapists contribute to the identification, treatment, and recovery of people with an eating disorder and their family and supports. Their unique contribution to the treatment team will be highlighted.

Speakers

Professor Genevieve Pepin is a passionate mental health occupational therapist and the Higher Degree Research Director at Deakin University.

Jasmin Watson is a registered Occupational Therapist experienced in providing mental health support for young people and adults. She has worked in both public and private sectors, specialising in the treatment of eating disorders and body image challenges. 

Rachel Knight is an occupational therapist with experience as a clinician, researcher, project manager and service transformation lead. She has held various positions in the public mental health sector in both Australia and the United Kingdom.  

Learning outcomes:

• Increase awareness of occupational therapy’s unique contribution to the multidisciplinary treatment of eating disorders, including the focus on meaningful daily activities, routines, and roles.
• Describe where occupational therapists work and what training and upskilling is available to occupational therapists who may want to explore working in this space
• Explain how occupational therapists address the impact of eating disorders on occupational performance, such as self-care, social participation, work, and leisure, across the recovery journey.
• Demonstrate practical evidence-based occupational therapy approaches and interventions that support clients in rebuilding healthy routines, body awareness, identity, and engagement in valued occupations.