Bronwyn is a Lead Occupational Therapist at the Ayr Clinic, where she helps turn creative ideas into meaningful therapeutic interventions that support recovery. In this blog, she shares her career journey, the support that shaped her development, and what it means to see patients grow in confidence and independence through occupation.

1. What is your role at Priory, and what do you enjoy most about it?

I am a Lead Occupational Therapist working at the Ayr Clinic. I enjoy being part of such a versatile team who are able to use their own skills to engage patients in therapeutic activity. I get to be a part of setting up new interventions and see this develop from an idea within the team to seeing the joy that this brings patients, motivating them and engaging in something so meaningful to them. Whether this is a vocational placement, within which they are able to develop their skills, self-efficacy and self-esteem. To engaging with cooking sessions, creative writing or life skill development groups... I could go on! In short, I most enjoy being able to be a positive part in a patient’s recovery and seeing them flourish within their occupations.

2. How has your career progressed since joining Priory?

I first started my post as a new graduate occupational therapist, with this being my first ever post. A brand new occupational therapist, at the very beginning of my career journey. I worked within this role for some time before becoming successful in obtaining an acting senior occupational therapist role, where I led the team through Covid and the challenges that this brought to the service and the wider healthcare setting. 

I was then successful in obtaining the Senior Occupational Therapist before progressing onto Lead Occupational Therapist. I then decided to change jobs altogether, deciding to attempt to try a career working within the NHS, however this was short lived as I missed my old role within the Ayr Clinic. I was lucky enough to be able to return to my old post, where I continue within my career.

3. What opportunities have helped your development at Priory?

I was hugely supported by my manager to be trusted to progress within my role and to be given the opportunity at each stage. I have attended an Inspirational Leadership Course and various development opportunities to support me within my role as a Lead Occupational Therapist. To support my development as a clinician, I have been able to undertake various training courses, such as: Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Walking Aid training, The Vona Du Toit Model of Creative Ability, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBTi), MOHOST and more! 

I have also been supported to attend conferences across the UK – all of these have been vital in my continued professional development and networking with other AHPs. I am also very lucky to have such an excellent occupational therapy team, who ensure to always strive to be the best we possibly can be for our patients and who are motivated to continuously develop our service. 

4. What advice would you give to someone considering a career at Priory?

Go for it! Ensure your values align with Priory’s. Meet or speak with the line manager or advertising contact to ask questions and prepare you for the role. Make the most of your learning and networking opportunities within the role. Ensure to achieve an appropriate work life balance, make the most of resources and support to ensure you look after your own mental health as well as others. 

Ready to take the next step in your career and explore a rewarding role in mental health? Explore our latest opportunities at jobs.priorygroup.com today.