For many Occupational Therapists, a career in the NHS provides years of valuable clinical experience, professional development and the satisfaction of helping people regain independence. But what happens when an experienced clinician begins looking for a different challenge?

At The OT Show 2026, Harrison Associates will be inviting Occupational Therapists to explore how their existing skills can open doors to rewarding careers in rehabilitation Case Management.

A Different Path, Built on Years of Experience

Amy was approaching her nineteenth year working in the NHS when she began considering the next chapter of her professional career.

Having developed extensive occupational therapy experience, she was ready for a new challenge but initially uncertain about what moving into private rehabilitation Case Management would involve.

Her transition into Case Management with Harrison Associates introduced a different dimension to her work. Rather than focusing solely on individual therapeutic interventions, she became involved in coordinating rehabilitation, identifying resources and bringing together the professionals and services needed to support people following serious injuries.

The experience strengthened her communication, strategic thinking and professional judgement, allowing her to apply her occupational therapy background in a broader rehabilitation setting.

Amy subsequently expanded into Expert Witness work, combining her Case Management experience with the analytical and reporting requirements of the medico-legal sector.

Reflecting on that development, Amy describes how moving into Expert Witness work expanded her professional horizons, bringing together her rehabilitation expertise and the demands of the legal system.

Occupational Therapy Skills Remain at the Heart of Case Management

At Harrison Associates, Case Managers work alongside individuals and families affected by catastrophic and complex injuries, including brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations and neurological conditions.

The role involves understanding each person's circumstances, identifying rehabilitation priorities, coordinating multidisciplinary teams and helping secure appropriate care, equipment, accommodation and support.

For Occupational Therapists, this provides an opportunity to use the same fundamental skills that underpin clinical practice, including holistic assessment, problem-solving, clinical reasoning and an understanding of how injury affects everyday life.

Exploring the Transition at The OT Show

Visitors to The OT Show will have the opportunity to meet Joanna Fletcher-Smith, Case Management Service Lead at Harrison Associates, an award-winning Case Manager with over 20 years of experience across clinical practice, leadership, research and education.

Joanna is also a Director of the Institute of Registered Case Managers and Honorary Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham.

She will be available to discuss the role of a Case Manager, the experience required and the practical considerations involved in moving into independent practice.

Whether considering a complete career transition or looking to develop a portfolio alongside existing clinical work, experienced Occupational Therapists are invited to explore what Case Management could offer.

Visit Harrison Associates at Stand F03 at The OT Show 2026 and discover how your clinical experience could help people in a different way.

About Harrison Associates

Harrison Associates has over 35 years of experience providing specialist Catastrophic Case Management and Expert Witness services, supporting individuals with complex and life-changing injuries across the UK.

Website: harrison.associates