Get to know your NDIS physiotherapist, Olivia Rooney
We’ve asked our supportive and friendly physiotherapist, Olivia, a couple of questions so that you can get to know her!
Why did you become a physiotherapist?
Growing up, I was heavily involved in gymnastics all through my primary and high school years. As a result, I had lots of encounters and exposure to physiotherapists, which ultimately inspired me to want to grow up and do the same. I also come from a family full of allied health professionals; Both my dad and brother are physiotherapists, and my sister is an occupational therapist – so they definitely played a part!
What has led to your passion for working in disability?
Whilst studying to become a Physiotherapist, I also worked as a disability support worker. I always loved spending time helping my clients complete their home exercise programs, increase their independence, and assist them to be more mobile within the community. Then my final years at university, I learnt even more about the importance of Physiotherapy for individuals living with a disability.
Do you have a memorable experience of assisting a client to achieve their goals that you’d like to share?
My most memorable moment so far was assisting a 1-year-old client with Global Developmental Delay to take their first ever steps during one of our sessions. It was amazing to see how excited and happy his parents were to see their son achieve such an important milestone
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love to run, read, go to the gym, find new foodie spots, swim in the ocean, and spend time with my family – together we like to go on walks with our dog and try new coffee shops.
What is your favourite sport or physical activity?
Gymnastics is my favourite sport – I particularly love watching this when the Olympics are on. My favourite physical activity is running – I’ve just started competing in half-marathon events which I’m loving!
In another life, if you weren’t a physiotherapist, what do you think you’d be doing?
In another life I think I would have ended up being a primary or high-school teacher. I would most likely teach PDH, Maths, and maybe English.
What is one thing that people would be surprised to learn about you? Do you have a hidden talent?
I can still do handstands and backflips from my time as a gymnast (although not very well)
What is your favourite movie, book and holiday?
Movie: All of the Harry Potter Series
Book: A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
Holiday: Colorado in the winter time
Thanks so much to Olivia for sharing more about herself and her reason for working in disability with our community!! We hope that you’ve enjoyed getting to know her! If you’d like to arrange services with Olivia or another of our therapists, please contact us today!
Olivia Rooney provides Active Ability’s physiotherapy services in the Sutherland Shire of Sydney. Specifically, you’ll find her in Menai, Caringbah, Sylvania, Woolooware, Cronulla, Kurnell, Engadine, Gymea and Illawong.