Michelle Ingham

Introduction

Kia ora,

My name is Michelle Ingham. I was raised in a rainbow family and have rainbow and Māori children in our blended family. Our whānau values inclusion, protection, and aroha for all peoples, cultures, and Papatūānuku.

As an Occupational Therapist, I bring a rich background that includes a variety of clinical, leadership, training, and supervisory roles. My true passion lies in healing spaces, where I work in partnership with kiritaki and whānau towards holistic wellbeing. I am experienced in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma across all age groups, and I am comfortable working with LGBTQIA+ communities and diverse cultures.

Services Offered:

• Anxiety Management and Confidence Building:

o Sensory exploration and tailored sensory diets to soothe and motivate.

o Gradual exposure therapy, supported by understanding sensory triggers and glimmers.

o Reconnection with self and others through meaningful activities.

o Confidence building through nature, art, animals, music, sport, and recreation.

o Goal identification, step-by-step planning, and celebrating achievements towards independence 

o Education to improve sleep quality 

o Assistance with organising daily routines and habits 

I am supported culturally by my professional OT supervisor (Pou Ārahi & Māori Healer). I have participated in several wānanga in rongoā (traditional healing) philosophies, matakite (seer of sickness and death), and wairua (spirituality).

My ongoing goal is to further enrich my understanding of Te Āo Māori and ensure my practice is culturally safe and appropriate by consulting and collaborating with current supports and other Kaupapa Māori organizations.

Qualifications

Post Graduate Certificate in Rehabilitation, Bachelor Health Science Occupational Therapy, Diploma Sports and Recreation 

Experience

I have extensive clinical and professional health sector experience within ACC contracts, MSD contracts and Private Insurance (mental health & medical complications), within leadership, supervisory, employee and contractor roles. 

Services I can provide: 

1. Assessment: Evaluate a person's physical, emotional, and mental abilities to see what might be holding them back. This can be achieved through sensory activities that help calm and motivate.

2. Goal Setting: Team up with kiritaki to set personal goals for daily living, work, and social life. We work closely with them and their whānau, celebrating every step towards independence.

3. Psychoeducation: Provide education on managing mental health conditions and coping strategies for kiritaki and their whānau. This includes gradual exposure therapy, understanding sensory triggers, and reconnecting with self and others through meaningful activities. Sleep hygiene and help with organizing daily routines are also important.

4. Environmental Modification: Suggest changes in the home, work, or school environment to make daily tasks easier and reduce stress. Sensory modifications can be a key part of this, especially when dealing with triggers or stress.

5. Support Groups: Might lead or join support groups where kiritaki can share experiences and learn from each other. Activities like nature walks, art, music, sports, and spending time with animals can help build confidence and connections.

Overall, as occupational therapists, we aim to help kiritaki live more independently and improve their quality of life by focusing on the unique challenges posed by mental health conditions