Rebekah Lynch

Master of Physiotherapy Practice from University of Auckland
Physiotherapist

Why did you choose Lifestart for your graduate program?

I was first attracted to Lifestart's new graduate program for the multidisciplinary and collaborative approach. Being part of a new grad group with speech pathologists and occupational therapists as well as other physiotherapists has allowed me to develop both my skills as a physio, but also my skills when dealing with complex clients with multiple needs.

How was your experience when you first arrived at Lifestart as a graduate?

Lifestart provided an extensive orientation and supported us through navigating the industry as a whole and the disability sector to become a well-rounded and equipped professional beyond what our individual disciplines need.

Since day one, I have been met us with autonomy when wanted, and support when required. Having a team manager and a clinical supervisor has left me with the support I need in all areas. After starting at Lifestart only weeks after moving to Australia, the Lifestart team went above and beyond to help me settle both at work and personally.

What has your team been like to work with?

My team have been very supportive and collaborative. Most clients have multiple clinicians involved in their care, and the process of working together with other clinicians to support these families has run smoothly from working in a fun and dynamic team.

What have been the highlights of your time at Lifestart so far?

The biggest highlight so far at Lifestart has definitely been watching my clients achieve their goals. Working in the disability sector can be challenging but is so rewarding when you get to witness firsthand your clients succeed.

Nikki Sheppard

Master of Speech Language Pathology from University of Sydney
Speech Pathologist

Why did you choose Lifestart for your graduate program?

I was fortunate enough to have a student placement with Lifestart, so I was able to gain a lot of insight about the company. One of the reasons I chose Lifestart was their approach to delivering services to clients and their families, supporting them in the environments that would have the greatest impact on their lives. This meant that every day was going to look different, and I was excited to have this variety. I also appreciated that the billable hours were realistic and gradually increased throughout the year to help me consolidate my learnings before worrying about taking on new clients.

How was your experience when you first arrived at Lifestart as a graduate?

I really appreciated how organised and comprehensive the orientation was. We visited multiple offices and had presentations from various team members that prepared us for working at Lifestart and navigating the disability sector. I was made to feel like I was respected as a health professional from the beginning, this quickly helped me build confidence and shrug off the feeling that I was still a student. It’s naturally nerve-racking to begin managing a caseload of your own clients, however I felt very supported clinically and professionally from the start with weekly supervision from my clinical supervisor and area manager.

What has your team been like to work with?

The team at Lifestart were so welcoming and made time to answer questions and provide multiple observation opportunities with their clients. I’ve already learnt so much from collaborating and providing holistic care to clients that I share with my colleagues from other disciplines.

What have been the highlights of your time at Lifestart so far?

Establishing relationships and trust with families and helping them work towards achieving their goals has been the biggest highlight. Equally, I’ve loved getting to know my colleagues and feeling like a valued part of my team.

Alex Doe

Master of Occupational Therapy from University of Sydney
Occupational Therapist

Why did you choose Lifestart for your graduate program?

I chose Lifestart for my graduate program due to the comprehensive support provided by supervisors and managers, professional development opportunities, and the opportunity to work with a multidisciplinary team that includes speech pathologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and behavioral support practitioners.

How was your experience when you first arrived at Lifestart as a graduate?

Upon my arrival at Lifestart as a graduate, I felt warmly welcomed by friendly colleagues, managers, and supervisors. I received substantial clinical and professional support from both my manager and supervisor. A thorough two-week induction, along with joint visits with experienced therapists from various disciplines, helped me learn about my scope of practice, a typical day for therapists, and the relevant policies and procedures.

What has your team been like to work with?

Working with my team has been fantastic. Colleagues are eager to share their thoughts and ideas during regular peer supervision sessions. My supervisor offers diverse insights and poses questions that stimulate my professional growth as an occupational therapist. Additionally, my manager consistently checks in to ensure that I am managing my workload and any associated stress well.

What have been the highlights of your time at Lifestart so far?

The main highlight of my time at Lifestart have been when clients and their families express their gratitude for my support. Such moments of appreciation make me feel accomplished and proud of the work I am doing.

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