An Interview with Independent OT Sharon Lewis
Sharon Lewis is a paediatric occuapational therapist who has been an associate for the last 3 years and is soon relocating abroad with her family. Before we say goodbye to her, we sat down to chat about her experience in private practice:
What first attracted you to private practice?
I was interested in private practice because it gave me more flexibility around my family and helped improve my work/life balance, as well as giving me the opportunity to provide treatment and support to families and children. I liked the idea of being my own boss and determining my own schedule, whilst still having the support and security of a company who deals with the clients and the associated administration that brings. With all this in place, I felt more comfortable venturing into private practice when I needed to make changes to my work schedule for my family life.
What would you say stands out about The OT Practice?
The OT Practice has been friendly, helpful and professional in all my dealings with them. When I've needed work they have tried to secure and source appropriate opportunities for me, but I've never felt pressurised to take on more than I can handle. When I've had personal issues that I've been dealing with, they've been understanding.
I also feel that they also have a very robust system in place for billing, note writing, booking in sessions, just about everything to do with the admin side of things. It just makes it all very easy. I feel that there’s always someone available to talk to if I need some support or advice. So, all around, they’ve just been really brilliant at everything!
What has given you the greatest sense of satisfaction in your career?
When I get to help a family or child in crisis, and I see the difference that it makes. Whether that’s providing a professional report towards an educational health care plan or it might just be some advice and strategies at home, or providing the treatment that then makes a difference in a child’s life. I love knowing that I have done something to make their lives a little bit easier and a little bit better.
And finally, what would be your advice for somebody thinking about coming into private practice?
I'd say that it's not as scary as it seems. For me, starting to work with The OT Practice felt like a bit of an easy and a gentle transition. It did feel like a little bit of a jump going from having a set salary to being self-employed, but I've loved the flexibility it's provided. I've been able to work around my family and my own needs and it’s been really great having that work/life balance. So, I'd say go for it.
For more infomation on stepping into private practice, contact therapistnetworkteam@theotpractice.com
