My Vision
I want to help people who are faced with mental health challenges or memory changes that are preventing them from doing the things that make them who they are and give them joy. I believe that supporting individuals to participate in the activities they value most can have a profound impact on their quality of life.
Who is this service for ?
This specialist service supports two groups of adults:
Adults experiencing low mood, anxiety, stress or burnout
If you are finding it difficult to manage day-to-day life, occupational therapy can help you understand what is getting in the way and find practical ways to make everyday activities more manageable. Together, we can work towards creating a life that makes space for fulfilment, confidence, satisfaction, a positive sense of self and enjoyment.
Adults experiencing cognitive changes
If you are experiencing changes in memory, attention, planning or other thinking skills, occupational therapy can help you understand how these changes are affecting your everyday life. We can work together to develop practical strategies to compensate for difficulties, maintain independence and support cognitive function for as long as possible.
Referral Information
Referrals are welcome from:
Individuals through self-referral
GPs
Consultant psychiatrists and other healthcare professionals
Appointments
Face-to-face appointments are available in Sligo and surrounding areas.
Online appointments are also available where appropriate.
Reports and communication with healthcare professionals
Following an initial mental health assessment or functional assessment, a written report can be provided outlining the assessment findings, recommendations and agreed goals.
With the client's consent, reports can be securely shared with GPs, psychiatrists and other healthcare professionals through Healthmail, Ireland's secure email service for healthcare professionals.
To make a referral or discuss whether occupational therapy may be appropriate, please get in touch.
Comprehensive Clinical Services
This comprehensive assessment package consists of three sessions:
Initial Occupational Therapy Assessment and Formulation – exploring the individual's occupational history, strengths, challenges, and goals.
Standardised Functional Assessment – utilising the evidence-based Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS) to objectively evaluate functional performance in everyday activities.
Feedback and Recommendations Session – discussion of assessment findings, provision of a written report, and recommendations to support functional independence and participation.
This service may be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing cognitive difficulties, mental health challenges, or concerns regarding their functional abilities.
This programme consists of four sessions and will be delivered in a small group format. Before attending the group, you will have a 15-minute free call with Claire to determine whether this group is the right fit for you.
Four structured sessions in small group with no more than 6 members
Two hours per session with a break halfway through with refreshments provided.
Evidence-informed interventions focusing on cognitive functioning, compensatory strategies, memory, attention, executive functioning, and practical approaches to managing cognitive challenges in daily life.
Tools to support cognitive function will be provided; this will include an orientation clock, a noticeboard and a Claire Matthews OT memory diary.
The programme is designed to support individuals experiencing mild cognitive impairment or with an early diagnosis of dementia. As well as learning tools and strategies from my experience as a qualified dementia champion you will experience peer support from people who are experiencing similar brain changes as you. I found this is one of the most powerful tools of group prgrammes.
Mental Health OT Assessment
A personalised Occupational Therapy assessment to understand what matters to you and identify practical ways to support you in your everyday life.
Your assessment begins with a free 15-minute consultation call, giving us an opportunity to talk about what you are looking for, answer any questions and decide whether Occupational Therapy is the right support for you.
If we decide to proceed, you will have a 1-hour one-to-one assessment with me. I will draw on my clinical experience and use an evidence-based Occupational Therapy assessment tool and model of practice that best fits your individual needs. I have experience using the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance and Engagement (CMOP-E) and the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO), and I am also incorporating my developing knowledge of the Kawa Model into my practice.
Together, we will explore how your mental health may be affecting the things you need, want or value doing in your everyday life — including your routines, relationships, work, self-care, leisure and sense of identity.
Following your assessment, I will provide you with a written Occupational Therapy report outlining your occupational strengths, areas of challenge and recommendations tailored to your needs.
Your recommendations may include:
Practical strategies to support your everyday functioning
Suggestions for developing routines and meaningful activities
Strategies to support confidence, motivation and participation
Signposting to other appropriate services or supports
Follow-up Occupational Therapy sessions, if these would be helpful
Any follow-up support will be collaboratively designed with you, based on your goals and what you feel would be most useful.