Matia’s journey to Occupational Therapy wasn’t a straight line—but it was one filled with discovery and heart. Like many, she wasn't sure where her career would take her while in high school. But when she came across OT, something clicked.

“At first, I was still confused about what OT really was—a feeling I’m sure many of my clients can relate to,” Matia shares with a smile. “But throughout my degree, I developed an unmatched appreciation for the dedication and compassion of the clinicians I met along the way.”

Today, Matia brings that same dedication to her role as an Occupational Therapist at Forbes Care, supporting individuals across the Sunshine Coast, Caboolture, and North Brisbane.

Finding Connection Through Care

For Matia, the relationships built along the way are what make the work truly special.

“There’s no better feeling than being on the same page with someone—whether it’s a client, a supplier, or another allied health professional—and working together to achieve meaningful goals,” she says.

Her passion lies particularly in supporting the older generation to maintain their safety and independence at home. Through every assessment, conversation, and recommendation, Matia ensures her clients feel heard, respected, and central to every decision made.

Therapeutic Use of Self

When asked about her favourite tool or strategy, Matia’s answer is simple but powerful: herself.

“I haven’t found my favourite physical clinical resource yet—but at this stage, I would say my therapeutic use of self has been my greatest asset,” she reflects. “Building a safe space during appointments enables me to create meaningful connections with my clients.”

Matia’s ability to bring warmth, empathy, and authenticity to every interaction creates an environment where trust can grow—and where true progress can begin.

A Team That Lifts Each Other Higher

For Matia, joining Forbes Care meant stepping into a workplace culture that values collaboration and learning.

“I love the supportive team environment here,” she shares. “Being able to come into a communal workspace, listen to different perspectives, and share thoughts has been amazing for my ongoing development.”

The combination of a welcoming environment and a shared passion for helping others has helped Matia continue to grow, learn, and bring her best to the people she supports.

Client-Centred Practice at Every Step

Matia’s approach to therapy is deeply client-led.

“I take the time to develop relationships based on trust, and I encourage my clients to guide me through their journey,” she explains. “I’ll have some ideas in mind, but it’s always a collaboration to find the best fit for each person’s needs and lifestyle.”

It’s an approach that fosters empowerment, dignity, and real-world change—and it’s part of what makes Matia’s work so impactful.

A Moment of Care and Growth

Recently, Matia demonstrated her thoughtful approach while supporting a client with a hearing impairment. Using the MOCA Hearing Impaired version, she adapted the session with written instructions and gave space for the client to engage on their terms.

The result? A deep and trusting connection. The client described Matia as “kind and thoughtful,” and both her Clinical Educators were deeply impressed by her ability to humanise clinical reporting while maintaining thoroughness. Matia captured the client’s experience of navigating life between the deaf and hearing communities—a testament to her reflective practice and growing confidence.

A Bright Future Ahead

Thoughtful, organised, and quietly powerful, Matia is already making a meaningful impact at Forbes Care. Her ability to honour her clients’ stories, combined with her growing clinical skill set, is something special—and we can’t wait to see all the ways she continues to shine.

At Forbes Care, we’re proud to have Matia on the team, helping clients find safety, independence, and dignity—one kind, considered step at a time.

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