CGOT is a holistic occupational therapy service for children, teens and adults, with a focus on mind/body connection and horticultural therapy, supporting people to be immersed in meaningful activities they may be having difficulty doing because of a health condition.
Tell us your story of how you came to be the brains behind CGOT?
Working in other occupational therapy settings, I noticed a gap in services offering nature immersion as a focus.
I have a background in horticulture and discovered horticultural therapy as an offering through the nursery I was working at, being involved in a stroke gardening group. It was through that work I discovered the connection with occupational therapy, and since then, it has been brewing in my mind to create an offering branching from this experience, with an occupational therapy lens.
What was your “lightbulb moment”? The moment you realised that CGOT would be your footprint on our community and the world?
Focusing on the nature side of things… I think outdoor landscapes give us a sense of expansiveness, giving us perspective and clarity of thought.
Also, the experience of awe… I think this can be so supportive of our motivation and give us all a zest for life. Living our lives ‘doing’ the things we want to do. I want to contribute to supporting people to be immersed in their natural environment as much as possible and to feel a sense of connection.
Everybody has something they love; what do you love about your job?
Seeing the joy and change people experience when they’re able to do things they’ve been wanting to do again or try something new.
This might be stepping out the door of their home. It feels like such a privilege to be able to meet people from all walks of life and support them in this role.
What do you find is the main reason that keeps you getting up every morning, heading out the door, and off to work?
I think it’s the rapport you build with clients and wanting to try different strategies, especially if it’s something I’ve just learnt about.
Tell us your secret… What are some of the little joys that you bring to people’s lives who have come to you for services and are finding the benefits in using CGOT?
A sensory expert with nature, somatic approaches, and mindfulness techniques – to break the hamster wheel of thoughts that impact so many parts of our life – our relationships with ourselves and others – that all influence how we go about our daily activities. Doing ‘general OT’ too, but these approaches are available if people are open or interested!
Engaging, individualised sessions while we work towards building your capacity in your daily life. This might also look like making changes to your environment or adding in items to support you.
Can you take us through the process – how did this idea of CGOT become a reality?
Well, I was very nervous at the start – going out on your own is a big step from being an employee! But there came a week when I knew it was time to get this long-time idea off the ground and do what I REALLY feel passionate about! I started with a website, some business cards, and a networking event.
Tell us about what you do that sets you apart from the other businesses offering occupational therapy?
Incorporating the natural environment into therapy. Focusing on the pillars of well-being – safety, security, self-care, supportive movement, living with purpose, community, a healthy relationship with self, and calming the nervous system.
Every business needs an adviser… Why did you turn to Canny Group, and with so many accountants Geelong has on offer, why Canny Group?
I chose Canny Group because they also provide NDIS Plan Management. Their knowledge of the NDIS system linked to the type of work I do gave this organisation an edge.
What kind of support have you received from Canny Group since joining forces with them as your accountant?
Amanda Wilkens has been incredible in helping me understand all my legal tax obligations in simple terms!
How do we get in contact with you to have a chat about your services?
Carolyn Gillen – OT
0431 273 294
cgotocctherapy@gmail.com