Full Biography

Susan Ormerod – Occupational Therapy Technical Instructor
Team Member at Rehabilitation for Independence (since October 2016)

Susan Ormerod is a highly experienced and committed Occupational Therapy Technical Instructor (OTTI) who has been part of the Rehabilitation for Independence team since October 2016. With a career shaped by both professional training and personal life experiences, Susan brings compassion, understanding, and a holistic approach to every aspect of her work.

Her passion for occupational therapy and neurological rehabilitation was inspired by her studies and her own personal experiences supporting family members through illness. Susan completed her Diploma in Occupational Therapy and Therapeutic Studies at Coventry University in 2010. The course was strongly practice-led, and her placements focused on mental health and stroke rehabilitation, laying the foundations for her future in complex care.

Susan's current role is uniquely split between two specialist teams within RFI, allowing her to apply her knowledge and skills in varied and impactful ways. One part of her role is within the Sensory Team, where she delivers sensory intervention sessions directly to clients, working collaboratively with families and schools to integrate sensory strategies into daily routines. Her work helps support emotional regulation, focus, and wellbeing—especially for children and young people.

The other part of her role is within the Litigation Neurology Team, where she works closely with clients who have sustained complex neurological injuries. Susan is instrumental in encouraging client engagement with the Occupational Therapy process, helping individuals pursue their personalised rehabilitation goals. Her supportive presence and ability to build strong therapeutic relationships make her an invaluable part of the team.

Susan is known for her approachable manner, thoughtful practice, and unwavering dedication to improving client outcomes. She combines evidence-based techniques with genuine empathy, always placing the individual at the centre of her interventions.