Gertrude Robertson

Occupational Therapist in Brooklyn, New York

Meet Gertrude Robertson

As an occupational therapist, Gertrude helps improve the quality of life for each of her patients.

Everyones needs and challenges are unique, and as such, Gertrude works with each patient to develop a unique plan of action. At the end of the day, the main goal of this partnership is to improve the patients comfort with daily activities and increase their independence. This career has taught Gertrude to never take anything for granted. “Appreciate every hour, minute, second that you’re able to function independently because many people are entirely dependent on others to do everything for them.” she explains.

Gertrude is constantly working to improve her craft. This includes researching the latest OT practices, as well as attending various seminars and conferences throughout the year. When Gertrude is not working, she keeps herself busy with leisure activities and her spirituality. This allows her to keep a healthy work-life balance.

What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapists are licensed rehabilitation care professionals.

The goal of an occupational therapist is to solve the problems that interfere with an individual’s ability to do everyday things. To do so, therapists must restore or improve physical abilities and promote behavioural changes.

Here are some of the challenges individuals face, and how occupational therapists:

Difficulty moving around the house: placing a key holder to make turning keys easier
Issues traveling around town: car modifications
Discomfort performing tasks at work or school: special tools that help prevent injury to hands and back

Often individuals receive these services on the referral or prescription of a physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner.

I motivate others through words of encouragement to help them find their inner strength. Sometimes when I am working with a patient, they can become easily discouraged; they don’t want to try harder or keep going. You have to continuously let them know that yes, they can do this, they just need to try a little harder or try a different way. Then when they do, I praise them with words of encouragement and let them know how proud of them I am.