Sarah Pateman is an Occupational Therapist (OT) based in Wollongong, NSW. Her clinic is at Level 1, 1 Burelli Street, Wollongong NSW 2500.
Occupational therapy is all about helping people do the everyday things that matter. In many cases, that means looking at daily living activities like getting ready, cooking, dressing, showering, managing household tasks, and staying as independent as possible at home or at work.
Sarah works with people who want practical support and a clear plan. Appointments often start with an assessment of what’s currently working, and what feels harder lately. From there, she helps work out realistic steps that fit into your day, not just a plan on paper.
One big part of the work is recommending adaptive equipment. These can be small changes that make a real difference, like tools that reduce strain or improve safety during everyday tasks. At times, the focus is also on changes to routines, so activities feel more manageable.
Sarah also helps by developing personalised therapy plans. The idea is simple: set goals that make sense for your life, then build the skills and strategies needed to reach them. Plans can include practice at home, step-by-step suggestions, and support to help you build confidence over time.
Energy conservation is another key area. This is about learning how to pace yourself, manage fatigue, and avoid doing too much on good days and then paying for it later. You’ll usually get straightforward training in practical techniques you can actually use.
Sarah has training in occupational therapy and focuses on client-centred care that stays grounded and helpful. If needed, she can also help you think through what’s safe, what’s worth changing, and what to try first.
There’s no one-size-fits-all in occupational therapy, and that’s why the support stays personal. Whether you’re dealing with new challenges or trying to improve how you manage day to day, Sarah’s approach focuses on practical outcomes and steady progress.