Chronic and Complex Conditions Occupational Therapy

Chronic Conditions Occupational Therapy helps individuals manage the daily impact of persistent physical health issues to improve their meaningful participation in life. Our approach focuses on the intersection of your physical symptoms, mental well-being, and environment.

Our work includes:

• Developing practical skills to manage variable symptoms like pain, fatigue, and brain fog in everyday situations.

• Identifying and overcoming barriers to participation in essential and enjoyable activities (self-care, work, leisure).

• Creating routines and habits that support energy conservation and consistent well-being.

• Adapting environments (home, work, community) to reduce physical strain and accommodate fluctuating health needs.

• Building confidence in your ability to manage your condition and engage in life fully.

We believe that engaging in purposeful activities is crucial for overall health. Our goal is to work with you to find creative ways to reconnect with the activities that bring meaning and satisfaction to your life.

Our Chronic and Complex Conditions Occupational Therapy service is designed for adults in Perth and across Australia who are dealing with the impact of conditions like:

• Hypermobility Conditions, including Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS)

• Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

• Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)

• Chronic Pain Syndromes

• Chronic Migraine and Headache Disorders

• Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and other forms of Dysautonomia

• Fibromyalgia

• Long-COVID

We provide personalised support that addresses how your specific condition impacts your daily functioning, helping you regain control and find joy in your daily activities.

We go beyond managing symptoms to addressing the functional impact of your condition:

• Practical Focus: We don't just talk about strategies—we help you implement them. Our therapists work with you to develop tangible, real-world solutions for managing daily challenges.

• Holistic Care: We understand that chronic conditions impact the whole person. Our approach considers your physical health, mental well-being, environment, and personal goals.

• Flexible Support: We offer therapy sessions in our clinic, at your home, or via Telehealth—wherever you feel most comfortable and where we can most effectively address your daily challenges.

• Skill Building: Learn evidence-based skills such as activity pacing, energy envelope management, graded exposure, and self-regulation techniques to improve your daily participation.

• Coordinated Care: We work alongside your doctors, physiotherapists, and other healthcare providers to ensure you receive comprehensive, well-rounded support.

Choosing Chronic and Complex Conditions Occupational Therapy at LifeWorks OT can lead to significant improvements in your daily life:

• Increased Participation: Re-engage with essential and enjoyable activities (work, hobbies, family life) through modified techniques and environmental support.

• Improved Energy Management: Develop personalised pacing strategies to minimise crashes and sustain activity throughout your week.

• Reduced Pain and Symptom Interference: Learn practical techniques to reduce the severity and impact of symptoms on your daily routine.

• Enhanced Quality of Life: Reconnect with activities that bring you joy and purpose, leading to greater life satisfaction despite your health challenges.

• Better Work/Study Performance: Gain skills to manage the demands of work or study, supporting job retention or a successful return to work.

• Greater Self-Efficacy: Build confidence in your ability to manage your condition and advocate for your needs.