I started Wizard OT in 2020 to provide a truly person-centred approach to therapy. At the core of our approach is the idea that each person should be treated as an individual. By considering each person's biological, psychological and social needs, we provide a tailored approach to improving every client's wellbeing. We don’t assume to know ahead of time what is best for our clients. Instead, we work with the individual, their family and their wider network to create an intervention.
In 2010 I suffered a serious head injury that left me physically and cognitively impaired. The injury made simple tasks hard and required some basic skills to be relearnt. Progress was slow and hard-won but, with time, support and consistent effort I was able to make a full recovery. As with many difficult experiences in life, I learnt a lot.
The understanding of what it’s like to have your life turned upside down by a debilitating impairment has informed everything I do throughout my career. It is the fire that drives me to help others. I know how tough it can be and I’ve also got first hand experience of our incredible ability to adapt and recover with the right support.
From 2015, I worked as a clinical consultant with people of all ages experiencing physical and mental health difficulties. The work was incredibly rewarding, but I couldn’t help but notice that there was something missing from the traditional approach to treatment. Whilst some patients benefited from the standard services being offered, others showed no signs of improvement. I knew there had to be another way.
In 2020 I started Wizard OT to help patients who weren’t suited to the typical, ‘cookie cutter’ services that are still offered to the majority of people today. Street Art Therapy is for everyone. No matter your physical abilities. No matter your psychological needs. No matter your background. You are welcome!
Gavin Symes Founder & Chief Wizard, Wizard OT
Wizard OT proudly acknowledges Victoria's First Nations peoples and their ongoing strength in practising the world's oldest living culture. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands and waters on which we live and work, and pay our respect to their Elders past and present.
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