In this episode of Occupied, Jess sits down with Adam Lo OAM to explore an inspiring career spanning clinical practice, leadership, advocacy, and the arts.



Adam shares his experiences working in Child and Youth Mental Health Services (CYMHS) and discusses the unique role occupational therapists play in supporting children, young people, and their families. We also dive into his passion for the creative arts, including the development of arts festivals that celebrate inclusion, participation, and community connection in Logan, Queensland.



The conversation also explores Adam's leadership within Occupational Therapy Australia, where he has served as Australia's World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) Delegate. Together, we discuss the importance of international collaboration, professional advocacy, and what the future holds for occupational therapy both in Australia and around the world.



Whether you're an occupational therapist, allied health professional, student, or simply passionate about mental health and creative practice, this episode offers valuable insights into leadership, innovation, and the power of occupation.Leading with Creativity and Advocacy: Adam Lo OAM 



Instagram: @OccupiedPodcastFacebook: Occupied Podcast



Host: Dr Jess Levick



Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

In this episode of Occupied, Jess sits down with Adam Lo OAM to explore an inspiring career spanning clinical practice, leadership, advocacy, and the arts. Adam shares his experiences working in Child and Youth Mental Health Services (CYMHS) and discusses the unique role occupational therapists play in supporting children, young people, and their families. We also dive into his passion for the creative arts, including the development of arts festivals that celebrate inclusion, participation, and community connection in Logan, Queensland. The conversation also explores Adam's leadership within Occupational Therapy Australia, where he has served as Australia's World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) Delegate. Together, we discuss the importance of international collaboration, professional advocacy, and what the future holds for occupational therapy both in Australia and around the world. Whether you're an occupational therapist, allied health professional, student, or simply passionate about mental health and creative practice, this episode offers valuable insights into leadership, innovation, and the power of occupation.Leading with Creativity and Advocacy: Adam Lo OAM Instagram: @OccupiedPodcastFacebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Dr Jess Levick Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

In this episode of&nbsp;Occupied, Jess sits down with&nbsp;Adam Lo OAM&nbsp;to explore an inspiring career spanning clinical practice, leadership, advocacy, and the arts.



Adam shares his experiences working in&nbsp;Child and Youth Mental Health Services (CYMHS)&nbsp;and discusses the unique role occupational therapists play in supporting children, young people, and their families. We also dive into his passion for the&nbsp;creative arts, including the development of arts festivals that celebrate inclusion, participation, and community connection in Logan, Queensland.



The conversation also explores Adam's leadership within&nbsp;Occupational Therapy Australia, where he has served as Australia's&nbsp;World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) Delegate. Together, we discuss the importance of international collaboration, professional advocacy, and what the future holds for occupational therapy both in Australia and around the world.



Whether you're an occupational therapist, allied health professional, student, or simply passionate about mental health and creative practice, this episode offers valuable insights into leadership, innovation, and the power of occupation.Leading with Creativity and Advocacy: Adam Lo OAM&nbsp;



Instagram:&nbsp;@OccupiedPodcastFacebook:&nbsp;Occupied Podcast



Host:&nbsp;Dr Jess Levick



Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

193 – Leading with Creativity and Advocacy: Adam Lo OAM

Brock and Jess chat and explore her firsthand experiences attending the 2025 Occupational Therapy Australia National Conference. She explores the highlights, key insights, and areas for improvement from her perspective. Adding depth to the conversation, you’ll also hear reflections from a diverse range of attendees, capturing the varied impressions and standout moments from this year’s event. Whether you attended or missed out, join us as we unpack the takeaways and discuss what it means for the future of occupational therapy practice.




Instagram: @OccupiedPodcast



Facebook: Occupied Podcast




Host: Dr Jessica Levick & Brock Cook



Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

Brock and Jess chat and explore her firsthand experiences attending the 2025 Occupational Therapy Australia National Conference. She explores the highlights, key insights, and areas for improvement from her perspective. Adding depth to the conversation, you’ll also hear reflections from a diverse range of attendees, capturing the varied impressions and standout moments from this year’s event. Whether you attended or missed out, join us as we unpack the takeaways and discuss what it means for the future of occupational therapy practice. Instagram: @OccupiedPodcast Facebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Dr Jessica Levick & Brock Cook Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

Brock and Jess chat and explore her firsthand experiences attending the 2025 Occupational Therapy Australia National Conference. She explores the highlights, key insights, and areas for improvement from her perspective. Adding depth to the conversation, you’ll also hear reflections from a diverse range of attendees, capturing the varied impressions and standout moments from this year’s event. Whether you attended or missed out, join us as we unpack the takeaways and discuss what it means for the future of occupational therapy practice.




Instagram:&nbsp;@OccupiedPodcast



Facebook:&nbsp;Occupied Podcast




Host:&nbsp;Dr Jessica Levick &amp; Brock Cook



Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

176 – Reflections from the 2025 Occupational Therapy Australia National Conference

Dr Twinley came into my life, as many have, via online connections and shared thoughts on Occupation and Occupational Therapy. When we first connected was just before she publicly released the concept of The Dark Side of Occupation. This concept very easily resonated with me. It integrated into my clinical practice and conceptualization very easily. It just made sense.
The understanding that occupations having purpose and meaning, being contextually situated and having an impact on health are nothing new to OTs. Reflecting on “the dark side” of occupations and seeing that there are many people in society, you included, who engage in maladaptive, harmful or health decreasing occupations was profound. It’s something, that for many, doesn’t seem to have been given the focus it deserved until it was given a name.
<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Why is it important?</h6>
Since this time I’ve seen the concept spread and evolve and become more widespread. One thing I’ve seen is the evolution of how people used the term. It was good to get Bex’s opinion on this and how it differs from her understanding and presentation of the concept.
It’s incredibly important that Occupational Therapists not only look at occupations that are health promoting but also those that may not have such a positive impact. Only then are we able to fully gain an adequate understanding of the people we work with and deliver effective health services. If you are wanting to get a better understanding of the concept then definitely start with the website linked below.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-link is-provider-embed">
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://thedarksideofoccupation.wordpress.com/
</div>
</figure>
Also check out some of these:
<h6 class="wp-block-heading">Related publications and presentations</h6>
Twinley, R. (2017) Woman-to-woman rape and sexual assault, and its impact upon the occupation of work: A Learn at Work Webinar. Available at: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXGxvh96pnA">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXGxvh96pnA</a>
Twinley, R. (2017) ‘The Dark Side of Occupation’. In: Jacobs, K. and MacRae, N. (eds) Occupational Therapy Essentials for Clinical Competence. 3rd edn. Thorofare, NJ: SLACK.
Twinley, R. (2014) ‘Everyone is a moon’: The dark side of occupation. OT24Vx2014: A World of Health and Well Being. 3-4 November 2014. 24 hour Virtual exchange available at: <a href="http://www.ot4ot.com/ot24vx.html">http://www.ot4ot.com/ot24vx.html</a>
Twinley, R. and Morris, K. (2014) Editorial: Are we achieving occupation-focussed practice? British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 77(6): 275
Twinley, R. (2013) The dark side of occupation: A concept for consideration. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 60(4): 301-303.
Twinley, R. (2013) Response to Re: The dark side of occupation: A concept for consideration. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 60(6): 459.
Twinley, R. (2013) ‘The dark side of occupation’ Occupational Science Seminar Series. 24 April 2013. Plymouth University: Plymouth
Twinley, R. and Addidle, G. (2012) Considering Violence: The Dark Side of Occupation. British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 75 (4): 202-204. DOI: 10.4276/030802212X13336366278257
Keep occupied
<a href="http://www.brockcook.com/033">Brock</a> <a href="mailto:brock.cook@me.com">brock.cook@me.com</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/brockcookOT">@brockcookOT</a>

Dr Twinley came into my life, as many have, via online connections and shared thoughts on Occupation and Occupational Therapy. When we first connected was just before she publicly released the concept of The Dark Side of Occupation. This concept very easily resonated with me. It integrated into my clinical practice and conceptualization very easily. It just made sense. The understanding that occupations having purpose and meaning, being contextually situated and having an impact on health are nothing new to OTs. Reflecting on “the dark side” of occupations and seeing that there are many people in society, you included, who engage in maladaptive, harmful or health decreasing occupations was profound. It’s something, that for many, doesn’t seem to have been given the focus it deserved until it was given a name. Why is it important? Since this time I’ve seen the concept spread and evolve and become more widespread. One thing I’ve seen is the evolution of how people used the term. It was good to get Bex’s opinion on this and how it differs from her understanding and presentation of the concept. It’s incredibly important that Occupational Therapists not only look at occupations that are health promoting but also those that may not have such a positive impact. Only then are we able to fully gain an adequate understanding of the people we work with and deliver effective health services. If you are wanting to get a better understanding of the concept then definitely start with the website linked below. https://thedarksideofoccupation.wordpress.com/ Also check out some of these: Related publications and presentations Twinley, R. (2017) Woman-to-woman rape and sexual assault, and its impact upon the occupation of work: A Learn at Work Webinar. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXGxvh96pnA Twinley, R. (2017) ‘The Dark Side of Occupation’. In: Jacobs, K. and MacRae, N. (eds) Occupational Therapy Essentials for Clinical Competence. 3rd edn. Thorofare, NJ: SLACK. Twinley, R. (2014) ‘Everyone is a moon’: The dark side of occupation. OT24Vx2014: A World of Health and Well Being. 3-4 November 2014. 24 hour Virtual exchange available at: http://www.ot4ot.com/ot24vx.html Twinley, R. and Morris, K. (2014) Editorial: Are we achieving occupation-focussed practice? British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 77(6): 275 Twinley, R. (2013) The dark side of occupation: A concept for consideration. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 60(4): 301-303. Twinley, R. (2013) Response to Re: The dark side of occupation: A concept for consideration. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 60(6): 459. Twinley, R. (2013) ‘The dark side of occupation’ Occupational Science Seminar Series. 24 April 2013. Plymouth University: Plymouth Twinley, R. and Addidle, G. (2012) Considering Violence: The Dark Side of Occupation. British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 75 (4): 202-204. DOI: 10.4276/030802212X13336366278257 Keep occupied Brockbrock.cook@me.com@brockcookOT

Dr Twinley came into my life, as many have, via online connections and shared thoughts on Occupation and Occupational Therapy. When we first connected was just before she publicly released the concept of The Dark Side of Occupation. This concept very easily resonated with me. It integrated into my clinical practice and conceptualization very easily. It just made sense.
The understanding that occupations having purpose and meaning, being contextually situated and having an impact on health are nothing new to OTs. Reflecting on “the dark side” of occupations and seeing that there are many people in society, you included, who engage in maladaptive, harmful or health decreasing occupations was profound. It’s something, that for many, doesn’t seem to have been given the focus it deserved until it was given a name.
Why is it important?
Since this time I’ve seen the concept spread and evolve and become more widespread. One thing I’ve seen is the evolution of how people used the term. It was good to get Bex’s opinion on this and how it differs from her understanding and presentation of the concept.
It’s incredibly important that Occupational Therapists not only look at occupations that are health promoting but also those that may not have such a positive impact. Only then are we able to fully gain an adequate understanding of the people we work with and deliver effective health services. If you are wanting to get a better understanding of the concept then definitely start with the website linked below.


https://thedarksideofoccupation.wordpress.com/


Also check out some of these:
Related publications and presentations
Twinley, R. (2017)&nbsp;Woman-to-woman rape and sexual assault, and its impact upon the occupation of work: A Learn at Work Webinar.&nbsp;Available at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXGxvh96pnA" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXGxvh96pnA</a>
Twinley, R. (2017) ‘The Dark Side of Occupation’. In: Jacobs, K. and MacRae, N. (eds)&nbsp;Occupational Therapy Essentials for Clinical Competence. 3rd edn. Thorofare, NJ: SLACK.
Twinley, R. (2014) ‘Everyone is a moon’: The dark side of occupation. OT24Vx2014: A World of Health and Well Being. 3-4 November 2014. 24 hour Virtual exchange available at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ot4ot.com/ot24vx.html" rel="noopener noreferrer">http://www.ot4ot.com/ot24vx.html</a>
Twinley, R. and Morris, K. (2014) Editorial: Are we achieving occupation-focussed practice?&nbsp;British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 77(6): 275
Twinley, R. (2013)&nbsp;The dark side of occupation: A concept for consideration.&nbsp;Australian Occupational Therapy Journal,&nbsp;60(4): 301-303.
Twinley, R. (2013) Response to Re: The dark side of occupation: A concept for consideration.&nbsp;Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 60(6): 459.
Twinley, R. (2013) ‘The dark side of occupation’&nbsp;Occupational Science Seminar Series. 24 April 2013. Plymouth University: Plymouth
Twinley, R. and Addidle, G.&nbsp;(2012) Considering Violence: The Dark Side of Occupation.&nbsp;British Journal of Occupational Therapy,&nbsp;75 (4): 202-204. DOI: 10.4276/030802212X13336366278257
Keep occupied
<a href="http://www.brockcook.com/033" rel="noopener noreferrer">Brock</a> <a href="mailto:brock.cook@me.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">brock.cook@me.com</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/brockcookOT" rel="noopener noreferrer">@brockcookOT</a>

034 – The Dark Side of Occupation with Dr Rebecca Twinley

I am honestly so excited about this episode. When Gail first sent me a message asking to be on the podcast I almost fell off my chair. All my Occupational dreams come true!
Professor Gail Whiteford has been an OT hero of mine for the longest time and even though we have met multiple times, getting to have a chat with her was a surreal experience. To say I was fan-boying was an understatement. Coming to the conclusion that she is not only one of the most intelligent and well rounded Occupational Therapists i know but also one of the most easy to talk to and engage with. I can’t thank Gail enough for allowing me to pick her brain.
Professor Whiteford’s work has had a significant and lasting impact on the direction of the profession and Occupational Science. In particular her work with Dr Elizabeth Townsend in the development and promotion of the Participatory Occupational Justice Framework was something that resonated with me from the core of my OT beliefs. Being involved with OT organisations such as OOFRAS and working with some marginalised populations the framework instantly resonated with the work and professional experiences I had up until that point.
The Conversation
Our conversation started with her journey through the profession and the evolutions of OT she experienced throughout that time. Gail, on the spot, came up with ideas I would never have ever considered about the profession. Blew my mind wide open. Feel like im still processing it.
We discussed the POJF and how it came into development. The current state of Occupational Therapy as well as what the future may hold for the profession. Definitely one of the deepest, most reflective conversations I’ve had and I really hope it blows your mind as much as mine.
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="7044b" data-offset-key="73drg-0-0">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="73drg-0-0">
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="7044b" data-offset-key="73drg-0-0">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="73drg-0-0">Keep occupied</div>
</div>
Brock 
<a href="mailto:brock.cook@me.com">brock.cook@me.com</a> 
<a href="https://twitter.com/brockcookOT">@brockcookOT</a>
</div>
</div>

I am honestly so excited about this episode. When Gail first sent me a message asking to be on the podcast I almost fell off my chair. All my Occupational dreams come true! Professor Gail Whiteford has been an OT hero of mine for the longest time and even though we have met multiple times, getting to have a chat with her was a surreal experience. To say I was fan-boying was an understatement. Coming to the conclusion that she is not only one of the most intelligent and well rounded Occupational Therapists i know but also one of the most easy to talk to and engage with. I can’t thank Gail enough for allowing me to pick her brain. Professor Whiteford’s work has had a significant and lasting impact on the direction of the profession and Occupational Science. In particular her work with Dr Elizabeth Townsend in the development and promotion of the Participatory Occupational Justice Framework was something that resonated with me from the core of my OT beliefs. Being involved with OT organisations such as OOFRAS and working with some marginalised populations the framework instantly resonated with the work and professional experiences I had up until that point. The Conversation Our conversation started with her journey through the profession and the evolutions of OT she experienced throughout that time. Gail, on the spot, came up with ideas I would never have ever considered about the profession. Blew my mind wide open. Feel like im still processing it. We discussed the POJF and how it came into development. The current state of Occupational Therapy as well as what the future may hold for the profession. Definitely one of the deepest, most reflective conversations I’ve had and I really hope it blows your mind as much as mine. Keep occupied Brock brock.cook@me.com @brockcookOT

I am honestly so excited about this episode. When Gail first sent me a message asking to be on the podcast I almost fell off my chair. All my Occupational dreams come true!
Professor Gail Whiteford has been an OT hero of mine for the longest time and even though we have met multiple times, getting to have a chat with her was a surreal experience. To say I was fan-boying was an understatement. Coming to the conclusion that she is not only one of the most intelligent and well rounded Occupational Therapists i know but also one of the most easy to talk to and engage with. I can’t thank Gail enough for allowing me to pick her brain.
Professor Whiteford’s work has had a significant and lasting impact on the direction of the profession and Occupational Science. In particular her work with Dr Elizabeth Townsend in the development and promotion of the Participatory Occupational Justice Framework was something that resonated with me from the core of my OT beliefs. Being involved with OT organisations such as OOFRAS and working with some marginalised populations the framework instantly resonated with the work and professional experiences I had up until that point.
The Conversation
Our conversation started with her journey through the profession and the evolutions of OT she experienced throughout that time. Gail, on the spot, came up with ideas I would never have ever considered about the profession. Blew my mind wide open. Feel like im still processing it.
We discussed the POJF and how it came into development. The current state of Occupational Therapy as well as what the future may hold for the profession. Definitely one of the deepest, most reflective conversations I’ve had and I really hope it blows your mind as much as mine.



Keep occupied

Brock 
<a href="mailto:brock.cook@me.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">brock.cook@me.com</a> 
<a href="https://twitter.com/brockcookOT" rel="noopener noreferrer">@brockcookOT</a>

024 – Occupational Justice with Professor Gail Whiteford

Operation Occupation was a project that I undertook a few years ago and was a turning point in my career for my personal growth into the profession of OT. Below is a presentation that I gave to the OT’s in my district about the “Operation Occupation” project whilst it was in progress:
<iframe src="https://prezi.com/embed/-yyfuxfharkg/?bgcolor=ffffff&lock_to_path=0&autoplay=0&autohide_ctrls=0&landing_data=bHVZZmNaNDBIWnNjdEVENDRhZDFNZGNIUE43MHdLNWpsdFJLb2ZHanI5K3o4dHhVNTFvQ0x2RTUydDNCZ2JwQTdRPT0&landing_sign=Y_aTW3EPNh0_x5kg9ExZTKcYvDiTqd7_r12kHyxlbew" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" width="550" height="400" frameborder="0"></iframe>
Keep occupied
Brock <a href="mailto:brock.cook@me.com">brock.cook@me.com</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/brockcookOT">@brockcookOT</a>

Operation Occupation was a project that I undertook a few years ago and was a turning point in my career for my personal growth into the profession of OT. Below is a presentation that I gave to the OT’s in my district about the “Operation Occupation” project whilst it was in progress: Keep occupied Brockbrock.cook@me.com@brockcookOT

Operation Occupation was a project that I undertook a few years ago and was a turning point in my career for my personal growth into the profession of OT. Below is a presentation that I gave to the OT’s in my district about the “Operation Occupation” project whilst it was in progress:

Keep occupied
Brock <a href="mailto:brock.cook@me.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">brock.cook@me.com</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/brockcookOT" rel="noopener noreferrer">@brockcookOT</a>

001 – Operation Occupation

For the longest time I’ve wanted to start a podcast. The blend of technology, creative expression and Occupational Therapy has always appealed to me greatly.



My vision for this is to be an online space where I can discuss concepts, new ideas, old ideas, talk to interesting OT’s, explore the dark depths of Occupation and generally have fun. If you have any ideas about topics you would like to hear broken down and discussed OR if you would like to discuss things with me then get in contact!



brock.cook@me.com



@brockcookOT



Keep occupied



Brock

For the longest time I’ve wanted to start a podcast. The blend of technology, creative expression and Occupational Therapy has always appealed to me greatly. My vision for this is to be an online space where I can discuss concepts, new ideas, old ideas, talk to interesting OT’s, explore the dark depths of Occupation and generally have fun. If you have any ideas about topics you would like to hear broken down and discussed OR if you would like to discuss things with me then get in contact! brock.cook@me.com @brockcookOT Keep occupied Brock

Intro

For the longest time I’ve wanted to start a podcast. The blend of technology, creative expression and Occupational Therapy has always appealed to me greatly.
My vision for this is to be an online space where I can discuss concepts, new ideas, old ideas, talk to interesting OT’s, explore the dark depths of Occupation and generally have fun. If you have any ideas about topics you would like to hear broken down and discussed OR if you would like to discuss things with me then get in contact!
<a href="mailto:brock.cook@me.com">brock.cook@me.com</a>
<a href="https://twitter.com/brockcookOT">@brockcookOT</a>
Keep occupied
Brock

For the longest time I’ve wanted to start a podcast. The blend of technology, creative expression and Occupational Therapy has always appealed to me greatly.
My vision for this is to be an online space where I can discuss concepts, new ideas, old ideas, talk to interesting OT’s, explore the dark depths of Occupation and generally have fun. If you have any ideas about topics you would like to hear broken down and discussed OR if you would like to discuss things with me then get in contact!
<a href="mailto:brock.cook@me.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">brock.cook@me.com</a>
<a href="https://twitter.com/brockcookOT" rel="noopener noreferrer">@brockcookOT</a>
Keep occupied
Brock

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