For Geordie, the path to Occupational Therapy was deeply personal. After a childhood spent preparing for a future in the Australian Defence Force, a serious knee injury and extensive rehabilitation shifted his dreams. Through this experience of loss and recovery, Geordie discovered Occupational Therapy—a profession dedicated to helping others regain the activities they love.

“I realised OT was about restoring meaning in people's lives,” he shares. “Having lost a big part of my identity, I could see the value in helping others keep or rebuild theirs.”

Today, Geordie brings that passion and insight to his role as a Senior Occupational Therapist and Clinical Educator at Forbes Care, making an impact through small moments of connection and long-term change.

Finding Strength in Small Moments

Geordie believes the heart of Occupational Therapy lies in the small, often overlooked moments.

One memory still stands out vividly: during his student placement, he spent just 15 minutes talking to an elderly man who had recently lost his wife. That brief conversation left such a lasting impact that the man crafted Geordie a paper flower with a heartfelt message of gratitude. Eight years later, Geordie still keeps that flower as a daily reminder of why he chose this profession.

A Passion for Mental Health and Empowerment

While Geordie has experience as a generalist OT, he has found his true calling in mental health. He excels at helping clients better understand their psychosocial disabilities, uncovering barriers, and empowering them to reclaim control over their lives.

One of his favourite therapy tools is the "Choice Points" strategy from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

“It helps clients visualise the impact of their choices, understand their disabilities more deeply, and empowers them to move toward the life they want,” he explains.

His approach always keeps the client’s voice central, creating a collaborative, respectful therapeutic environment.

A Calming Force for Clients and Team Members Alike

Geordie’s supervisors describe him as a calming presence and an intelligent internal thinker. His ability to cut through messy situations, outline clear pathways, and guide his team with steady leadership has made him a vital part of the Forbes Care family.

He builds strong rapport by leading with vulnerability and setting clear expectations—an approach that fosters deep trust, both with his clients and his colleagues.

A Culture of Belonging at Forbes Care

When asked what he values most about Forbes Care, Geordie’s answer is clear: the sense of belonging.

“The team environment here is incredible. You always know someone has your back. Everyone’s curiosity and willingness to learn creates such a collaborative space,” he says.

That supportive culture has allowed Geordie to shine—both as a clinician and as a thought leader. He recently represented Forbes Care on the "What in the NDIS Now?" podcast, where he shared thoughtful insights on the OT role in psychosocial disability.

Celebrating Client Wins

Geordie’s commitment to his clients is evident in the stories of perseverance and success he shares. From securing long-awaited assistive technology funding to seeing a client finally achieve suitable housing after a long period of instability, Geordie celebrates every win—large or small.

One housing provider even praised his work, calling an access report he prepared "the most amazing OT report" they had seen—a testament to his skill, persistence, and dedication to client outcomes.

An Advocate for Empowerment and Understanding

Whether he is empowering a client through therapeutic coaching, mentoring his peers, or helping the broader team think more clearly about complex challenges, Geordie leads with empathy, intelligence, and heart.

At Forbes Care, we are proud to have Geordie shaping the future of our mental health services and inspiring others with his thoughtful, client-centred leadership—one powerful small moment at a time.

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