Carer’s advice leads to occupational therapy career

We know that life doesn’t always go to plan, but thankfully for thousands of patients across Metro North, Tegan Button chose a career in occupational therapy.

Community and Oral Health Senior Occupational Therapist Tegan Button said she had a dream to become a teacher of Japanese language and geography, but a fated conversation with her speech pathologist stepmother changed everything.
“I didn’t even know what an Occupational Therapist was. I was studying a Bachelor of Education and put down my name to apply to do another degree,” Tegan said.

“I always wanted to help people and occupational therapy seemed to be right. Since then I haven’t looked back.”
Tegan, who began as a graduate in Roma, secured an occupational therapist role at the Community and Oral Health directorate around 18 years ago.

“I was part of the Community Transition Care Program (CTCP) team when it opened and saw its first patient,” she said.

“Since then, the service has cared for thousands, if not tens of thousands of patients so that they can stay and thrive at home. I love it. I truly believe in what we do to put supports in place for the older person to live independently for as long as possible.

“I enjoy the interactions with the patients as you get to know the person and what is meaningful for them. It gives the whole team immense satisfaction that we are able to help people meet the goals that they want.”

Tegan’s day ranges from case management to setting up equipment, conducting patient assessments around their function in everyday activities at home like showering or making a meal, and supporting access to ongoing community and domestic services.

“I have so much respect for the older person, for what they have experienced and the importance of providing dignity in their final years,” she said.

“It is important to know that people have the right to choose. They have the right to choose their direction.”

Recently, Tegan was awarded the 2025 COH Allied Heath Professional of the Year during Allied Health Professions Day celebrations.

CTCP delivers around 35,000 patient appointments to people in their home or virtually each year.

This short-term restorative care program supports older individuals transitioning home after a hospital stay. It is designed to provide enhanced assistance and time for people to regain safety, functional ability and independence.

The program facilitates a smooth return to community living by connecting participants with appropriate ongoing care providers, empowering them to continue working toward their personal goals.