Maria Braithwaite

Occupational Therapy graduate with a First-Class Honours Degree and 1000+ hours' worth of practice-based learning across acute hospital, community mental health, and learning disability settings through studying at Northumbria University. My experience has supported me to develop a strong foundation in person-centred, evidence-based practice. I am looking to apply my skills for supporting individuals to promote their independence and quality of life, continuing to grow confidence in clinical reasoning, communication and MDT working.

Occupational Therapy Practitioner - Learning Disability - Harton Academy

(2025-10-27 - 2026-02-01)

• Delivered evidence-based therapy sessions based on individual therapy goals and outcomes, supporting engagement, participation, and skill development
• Independently managed a high-demand caseload, developing effective skills in prioritisation and time management within a busy service
• Demonstrated strong person-centred practice, being responsive to the needs of clients
• Maintained accurate and timely documentation for therapy outcomes, keeping activity logs up to date
• Recognised for working to a high standard of practice, taking a proactive approach for fulfilling service demands and continuing professional development

Occupational Therapy Practitioner - Memory Protection Service, Community Mental Health - Monkwearmouth Hospital

(2025-02-17 - 2025-04-13)

• Supported the information gathering process of individuals presenting with concerns related to early onset dementia or Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) to support medical diagnosis
• Completed initial and functional cognitive assessments underpinned by frameworks such as the MOHOST and PRPP model
• Strengthened understanding of the OT process and refined communication skills, being adaptive to outcomes and utilising clinical reasoning skills

Occupational Therapy Practitioner - Care of the Elderly, Acute Hospital - Sunderland Royal Hospital

(2024-05-20 - 2024-07-07)

• Contributed to the OT process through information gathering, contributing to safe and timely discharge planning
• Completed initial, transfer and ADL assessments to inform clinical reasoning and support person-centred decision-making
• Developed effective communication skills when interacting with older adults, families/carers, being adaptive to individual needs

First-Class Honours Degree - Occupational Therapy - Northumbria University