An Occupational Therapist, or OT for short, specialises in working with individuals, groups, and communities in various settings to help one perform daily tasks. The term 'occupation' refers to everyday activities that bring meaning and purpose to one's life—such as brushing one's teeth, preparing meals, getting dressed for work or buying groceries.

Being an OT is far more than mere physical rehabilitation; OTs work holistically, addressing the physical, mental, environmental, and emotional aspects of their client's recovery. OTs not only focus on the individual but also on the external barriers that may limit participation, such as physical environmental constraints or the lack of assistive devices.

They work collaboratively with clients to problem-solve and find new ways to accomplish tasks, which may involve modifying home layouts, introducing new tools, or adapting existing equipment. OTs design personalised plans to implement necessary modifications that better empower individuals to rebuild their independence and adapt to new circumstances, ultimately improving their overall quality of life. As Hsien Loong shares, being an OT requires an all-encompassing approach, blending problem-solving, effective communication, and education.

  An OT considers a client's personal challenges, the demands of daily tasks, as well as their home and external environment to create personalised plans for improvement.

An OT also supports the emotional journey of individuals coping with life-altering limitations. “You can't resolve grief or fear with textbook answers," he admits when asked about the challenges of his job.

Clients may come in with similar physical issues, but how one deals emotionally with recovery is always different. Hsien Loong is dedicated to honing his skills, not only to address clients' physical needs but also to support them through the emotional and mental aspects of recovery.

  Hsien Loong (centre) celebrates his graduation at the SIT Convocation 2024 with his university friends. Their shared journey through rigorous training and learning enabled them to forge a close-knit bond that extends beyond school.

More than just financial support, the CCS provided Hsien Loong with invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth. He credits the scholarship for connecting him with like-minded peers and experienced healthcare professionals who prepared him for the realities of being an OT.

During one of the scholarship events organised by MOHH, Hsien Loong got to know a Senior OT from Changi General Hospital (CGH), who provided valuable, grounded advice.

“The senior shared about how she advocated for the rights of clients. Doctors and nurses may not be familiar with the role of the OT, but as an OT, you have to advocate your perspective to others," he said.

This conversation changed Hsien Loong's outlook on being an OT. He realised that advocacy is not about demanding to be understood, but about consistently showing up and sharing your professional point of view. By doing so, OTs can help others see the value of their work and find a deeper sense of purpose in their own role.

“Networking helps us grow; it teaches us soft skills and so much more—things that you may not necessarily get to learn in school or through books," Hsien Loong shared. These soft skills have enhanced his ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively, making him a valuable team player.

  Hsien Loong fondly recalls having insightful discussions about occupational therapy with his peers, a cherished aspect of his university days that he now misses.

The scholarship also fostered a supportive community for Hsien Loong during his schooling days.

“We formed a group that understood the challenges of this path (OT). It wasn't just about ranting but also listening and learning from one another," Hsien Loong shares fondly. This meaningful bond he has fostered continues to provide mental and emotional support, which has been instrumental in his early career.

While the scholarship and his education provided strong foundations for his new role, nothing fully prepares a newly minted OT for the emotional demands of the job. One of his toughest challenges has been going beyond the expected duties of an OT. For him, it's not just about providing healthcare services—it's about truly being there for his clients, understanding their struggles and fears, and jointly pursuing their improvement. Driven by this deep desire to support his clients, Hsien Loong focuses on empathising with them to deepen connections, while also helping them achieve their goals to improve and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working.

“Each client's journey is unique," he says. “You can't apply a one-size-fits-all solution." He recalls seeking advice from seniors when navigating the emotional complexities of a client struggling and grieving their loss of ability. In the beginning, Hsien Loong found it difficult to reconcile his client's emotional pain with his physical loss. Upon his seniors' advice, Hsien Loong tried focusing more on counselling and motivation, rather than mainly on physical recovery. By trying to better understand his struggles and connect with him, the client eventually became more receptive to Hsien Loong's efforts.

“I reminded myself that I'm a human being trying to understand another human being," Hsien Loong reflects, acknowledging that being empathetic is essential in becoming a better OT, a skill he continues to cultivate. 

  OTs not only monitor physical progress but also strive to enhance the overall emotional well-being, happiness, and confidence of their clients.

Another challenge is contending with the intangible measures of success. Physical milestones like increased mobility are easy to track and celebrate, but progress in emotional resilience or self-confidence is harder to gauge in a client.

“In school, you receive feedback and results almost instantly. In the workforce, success is less clear-cut," he explains.

However, the positive feedback and appreciation from his clients and their families instil a sense of achievement, reinforcing the meaningful impact of his work. He also draws inspiration from concepts like Occupational Justice[1], which emphasises empowering clients to regain autonomy through meaningful routines. By focusing on these personal milestones and goals, Hsien Loong stays motivated to keep going and finds fulfilment in his work.

  In his work, Hsien Loong motivates his clients, and outside of work, he keeps himself inspired. Through self-study, he continually finds joy, passion and a sense of purpose that drives him forward.

Reflecting on his journey, Hsien Loong offers wisdom for those considering a career in occupational therapy. “Mistakes are your greatest teachers," he says. “If life were a hundred percent smooth sailing and perfect, I wouldn't be able to learn as much." He encourages future scholars to embrace challenges and grow from setbacks—a mindset that has profoundly shaped his professional and personal life.

Hsien Loong describes a career in occupational therapy as both rigorous and rewarding. “You begin to see life through a new lens," Hsien Loong reflects. “Every small act, like helping someone rediscover how to brush their teeth again, holds profound meaning."

For those contemplating a career in occupational therapy, Hsien Loong highlights the need for open-mindedness and empathy. “It's about understanding people—their lives and their struggles," he says. “Being an OT isn't just about clinical skills; it's about compassion and recognising the value in everyday acts."

Hsien Loong encourages aspiring scholars to embrace the journey, overcome challenges, and find purpose in the transformative work of being an OT or any healthcare role. By doing so, they can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while discovering the profound rewards of their own growth and path.

Interested in pursuing Occupational Therapy? Watch Hsien Loong Spill the Tea about Occupational Therapy here.

Occupational Therapy is offered under the Community Care Scholarship by MOH Holdings (MOHH) in partnership with the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC). For more information, check out this page. MOHH offers local and overseas scholarships, in partnership with public healthcare institutions, to nurture the next generation of Nursing, Pharmacy, and Allied Health professionals and to kickstart a meaningful career in healthcare.

[1] Occupational Justice is founded on the principle that everyone has the right to achieve health and a good quality of life through participation in daily activities.