“Anxiety can be as limiting as physical disability. I help people understand their fears, challenge them gradually, and rebuild confidence in their ability to cope with daily life.”
Heidi brings a unique combination of physical rehabilitation and mental health expertise to the Medella team. Covering a wide area from Chandler’s Ford through to Bournemouth and Poole, she’s particularly valuable for clients where anxiety or low confidence is affecting their recovery.
A Career Built on Experience
Heidi has worked in multi-disciplinary therapy teams since 2006, initially as a therapy assistant. This hands-on experience convinced her that occupational therapy was her calling, and she graduated from Bournemouth University in 2018. Her years as an assistant give her a practical, grounded approach to care.
Hospital Experience
After qualifying, Heidi worked in a rehabilitation ward for older persons at Bournemouth Hospital. Here she ran exercise classes, activity groups, and mobility work, while also supporting those lacking in confidence through music, memory stimulation, and massage. She saw first-hand how much environment and emotional wellbeing affect physical recovery.
Mental Health Expertise
In 2020, Heidi moved to a mental health team delivering a ‘Recovery Through Self Discovery’ programme using Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) approaches. She specialised in anxiety management, facilitating groups that helped people understand, manage, and challenge their anxiety. This training is invaluable for clients whose confidence has been shattered by falls, illness, or bereavement.
Current Practice
Heidi now works as a Senior Therapist at Bournemouth Hospital, combining hospital and community work. Her ongoing NHS role means she’s always up-to-date with available services across Dorset and Hampshire, and she can easily link clients with GPs, memory clinics, and social services when appropriate. This network is invaluable for families trying to coordinate care.
