Occupational therapist Louise Whitton and her team at Focus on Function take a holistic approach to helping participants achieve their goals in life.

The trained specialists assist adults who often present with severe disabilities related to mental health, physical, cognitive and neurological conditions.

“Our job is to help participants to achieve their goals which can be returning to something they love doing, or it might be to get a new wheelchair or have better access in their home environment,” Ms Whitton said.

“We also consider social factors and look at the whole person to get the best outcomes for them.”

The Gunnedah business owner recently celebrated 12 months in operation as founder of Focus on Function.

Six new staff have since come on board, covering Narrabri and Tamworth.

Such is the demand, Ms Whitton - who has practised as an OT in Gunnedah for 11 years - is looking to recruit more staff for her growing business.

“OTs are very rare, there’s not many of us around,” she said.

The Gunnedah clinician also believed women form an invaluable part of the local business community.

“Women have a lot to offer business in general and the economic growth, as well as their contribution to the community,” she said.

“We have a great sense of community and diverse industries which attract lots of different people.

“We are really keen to stay here for the long run and would like to expand to serve more people with disabilities.”

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Article by Women In Business.