At Home with VHA tells the stories of those who make up our workforce. In every role, VHA care providers and staff champion the needs of our clients and create possibilities for more independence. October marks Occupational Therapy Month, so we’re recognizing some of the spectacular rehab therapists on our team. Meet Ghazal Shearer, an Occupational Therapist on our team who provides care in Ottawa in the Champlain Rehab Solutions division.

How long have you been an Occupational Therapist (OT)?

Ghazal: I got my certification from McMaster University in 2016 and I began working at Champlain Rehab Solutions (Ottawa Region) in 2020.

What made you choose a career in Occupational Therapy?

Ghazal: I took a slight detour in my career after graduating actually. I have a master’s degree in Sports Management. I really enjoyed aspects of helping and engaging with people of all ages. Then, I realized I wanted to be in the healthcare profession. Occupational Therapist screamed out to me and once I found it, it was a great fit. It looks at the whole picture,  helping people achieve a better quality of life through problem solving.

What is your favourite part about being an OT?

Ghazal: My favourite part is knowing that I can make a different in improving my clients’ quality of life. To me, it’s like solving a puzzle. It’s always interesting and get to help them complete tasks that are meaningful to them. I find it very fulfilling to come up with solutions to the difficulties that they may be experiencing in the community.

What do you think is the biggest impact of your work?

Ghazal: I think for me that would have to be helping clients achieve greater levels of independence and self-worth through finding different ways of adapting the tasks that they want to achieve safely and comfortably.

Are there any client outcomes that have been particularly memorable to you?

Ghazal: Of course! There have been too many to count.