KMA Occupational Therapy

12/05/2025

Today marks the start of Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK (12-18 May 2025). The theme for 2025 is ‘COMMUNITY’, highlighting the importance of community in supporting mental health and wellbeing.

We thrive when we have strong connections with other people and supportive communities remind us we are not alone. Our community can provide us with a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times and hive us a sense of purpose.

A community can be people who live nearby, friends, those with shared interests, beliefs or identities. Some come together in physical spaces, workplaces or neighbourhoods, others happen online in social media groups or online forums.

Some of our clients tell us that being part of a community empowers them to make their lives feel more meaningful and enjoyable, helping them feel happier and improving their mental health.

Look at The Mental Health Foundation’s website for more information about how to get involved in your community

Good mental health for all. Dedicated to finding and addressing the sources of mental health problems.

23/04/2025

As we champion our latest service development in offering Sensory Assessments, read our blog to learn about how we are reframing adult wellbeing:

Discover how occupational therapy and sensory work support adults with neurodivergence, mental health conditions, and chronic illness by promoting independence, emotional regulation, and improved quality of life.

https://www.katemeadsassociates.com/the-significant-role-of-ot-and-sensory-work/

22/04/2025

Earth Day 2025 and Occupational Therapy share a common goal of promoting health, well-being, and sustainable living. Occupational therapists support individuals in leading meaningful, balanced lives, and Earth Day emphasises environmental responsibility—both essential for a healthier planet and population. By encouraging eco-friendly practices in daily routines, workspaces, and communities, occupational therapy can contribute to environmental sustainability while enhancing clients' quality of life.

20/04/2025

The KMA team wish everyone who celebrates a Happy Easter 🐣

02/04/2025

On World Autism Day, let's wear purple to raise awareness, foster acceptance and create a society where autistic people are supported, understood and empowered 💜💜💜

31/03/2025

Join us in celebrating Autism Acceptance Week 2025, taking place from Monday, 31st March to Sunday, 6th April 2025! This week is dedicated to promoting genuine acceptance and understanding of autism, challenging misconceptions, and celebrating neurodiversity within our communities.

Autism Hampshire are starting the week by encouraging you to expand your knowledge of autism through their online 'Myths or Facts' quiz. https://autismhampshire.org.uk/support-us/events/autism-acceptance-week

Wednesday is World Autism Awareness Day - show your support by wearing purple to raise awareness and foster inclusivity.

Throughout this week, powerful stories from autistic individuals will be shared across social media - these narratives offer insight and aim to deepen understanding and promote acceptance. We would love for you to check some out!

Here at KMA we work alongside many autistic clients, offering accommodations and adjustments to empower them to thrive in their occupational roles and home life. Kathryn is our team Autism Ambassador and would love to share with you this short, award winning video https://youtu.be/Ezv85LMFx2E

Let's work together to create an inclusive world for everyone!

Autism Acceptance Week 2025

17/03/2025

Something exciting has happened!🥁🥁🥁

We can now reveal that KMA have started to offer Sensory Processing Assessments. Our dedicated team of occupational therapists are extensively trained in sensory processing principles, sensory profiles and the Alert Program. With years of practical experience, we are committed to providing effective support for individuals navigating sensory challenges at home, work, or within education settings.

Sensory processing describes how the nervous system interprets sensory input and triggers appropriate responses. For some people, sensory information may feel exaggerated or diminished, leading to difficulties in navigating daily life and environments.

Have you ever felt sensitive to sounds, lights or textures? Perhaps you have difficulties with fine motor skills? Or maybe you crave intense sensory experiences? Do you experience sleep challenges or difficulties regulating your emotions? Or you may have a diagnosis of ADHD or Autism and would like practical strategies for straightforward living?

A Sensory assessment may be your passport to a more satisfactory, productive and fulfilled day. We utilise the sensory profile, which is a comprehensive tool designed to map your sensory needs and preferences, helping to identify your responsiveness to sensory input.

https://www.katemeadsassociates.com/

Please contact us to discuss your requirements – we are happy to help!☺️

Occupational Therapy and Vocational Rehabilitation Services Working with Success in Mind KMA works across the key areas of physical, mental and developmental health. Our occupational therapy services use evidence-based practices to establish and implement realistic, achievable and sustainable goals....

17/03/2025

It is the start of Neurodiversity Celebration Week (17-23 March). Neurodiversity is an umbrella term to include dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, sensory processing differences, autism, ADHD, tic disorders and more.

This celebration week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and how they are supported by schools, universities, organisations and others around the world.

They are offering free online events to recognise the skills and talents of neurodivergent individuals, while crating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.

https://www.neurodiversityweek.com/

Neuro Rocket are also hosting free events this week for neurodivergent individuals and welcome anyone looking for an inclusive and supportive space:

https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/neurodiversity-celebration-week-5-sessions-4116773

Neurodiversity Celebration Week aims to bring about worldwide neurodiversity acceptance, equality and inclusion in schools and workplaces.

14/03/2025

Happy World Sleep Day 🛌

World Sleep Day is an annual event to raise awareness of sleep disorders and the impact they have on daily functioning and ultimately on society.

Three elements of good quality sleep are:

⏰Duration: the length of sleep should be sufficient for the sleeper to be rested and alert the following day.

🧘Continuity: sleep periods should be seamless without fragmentation.

💤Depth: Sleep should be deep enough to be restorative.

Sleep is a basic human need and is essential for metabolic regulation. Good quality sleep (rather than quantity) is essential for cognitive functioning.

Did you know that sleep hygiene is one of the things we explore with you during a Functional Needs Assessment? We recognise the impact that sleep has on your ability to undertake and enjoy your daily activities.

Contact us for more information😊
01264 326308
www.katemeadsassociates.com

20/02/2025

Today is National Love Your Pet Day…

🐶🐱 The Power of Pets: More Than Just Companions! 🐾

Did you know that spending time with pets can do wonders for your well-being? Being around them triggers the release of oxytocin, also known as the "love hormone," which helps reduce stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of depression.

But the benefits don’t stop there! Pet owners often experience lower blood pressure and heart rates, leading to improved heart health and overall wellness. Amongst the KMA Team we have pets of dogs, cats, fish and even rats! So whether it’s a dog’s wagging tail, a cat’s gentle purr, or even watching fish swim, pets have a magical way of making us feel calm, secure, and loved. 🐕🐈🐠

To explore more wellbeing tips visit

Occupational Therapy and Vocational Rehabilitation Services Working with Success in Mind KMA works across the key areas of physical, mental and developmental health. Our occupational therapy services use evidence-based practices to establish and implement realistic, achievable and sustainable goals....

11/12/2024

Fact: It is a busy time of year! Read our latest blog to find out how OT can support your wellbeing:

Occupational Therapy and Stress Reduction: An Holistic Approach to Well-being:

Discover how occupational therapy offers a client-centered, holistic approach to managing stress and improving quality of life. Through tailored interventions, occupational therapists help individuals balance productivity, rest, and meaningful activities to enhance physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
From identifying stress triggers and developing healthy routines to teaching mindfulness techniques and creating supportive environments, occupational therapy addresses the root causes of stress across all life stages. Whether for children, working adults, or older individuals, occupational therapy promotes resilience, relaxation, and empowerment for a healthier, more balanced life.

For more information:

In today's fast-paced world, stress has become an all-too-common part of our daily lives. Whether it's work-related pressure, managing personal responsibilities, or coping with health challenges, stress can take a toll on our physical and mental well-being. Occupational Therapy (OT) offers a unique....

07/11/2024

The final in our series of three blogs for OT Week focuses on the importance of early intervention in OT and how OT can empower lives through timely support.

This blog explores the crucial role of early intervention in occupational therapy (OT), highlighting its impact on individuals’ ability to perform meaningful daily activities. It discusses how early OT support, whether for children with developmental delays, adults recovering from injuries, or older adults with chronic conditions, can prevent long-term complications, foster independence, and enhance quality of life. Key benefits include maximizing developmental potential, preventing secondary complications, improving long-term outcomes, and reducing healthcare costs. The blog also outlines how occupational therapists assess individual needs and create personalized plans involving family-centered support, skills development, environmental modifications, and adaptive equipment. Early intervention is emphasised as a proactive, continuous approach, vital for successful recovery, sustained occupational roles, and lifelong well-being.

To read more, please go to:

Blog