Angela Gallagher, Occupational Therapist

Professional Experience

I qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 2013, and have extensive experience in stroke, neurology, spinal cord injuries, care of the elderly and falls prevention. My clinical experience has focused primarily on supporting adults following brain injury, stroke, or those living with long-term neurological conditions. I have extensive skills, knowledge and experience within neurology and stroke rehabilitation, having worked in acute settings, rehabilitation units, and integrated health and social care community services.

Within integrated health and social care teams, I was responsible for assessing and implementing care packages and rehabilitation programmes for individuals living at home. I have working knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act and experience conducting Mental Capacity Act assessments for individuals post brain injury and stroke. I am confident in assessing and rehabilitating patients' physical, cognitive, psychological, behavioural and social limitations at all stages of their rehabilitation journey, from acute care through to community reintegration and return to meaningful occupation.

In 2024, I launched my own practice supporting people to increase independence, function and quality of life following stroke, brain injury, or when living with long-term neurological conditions. I also provide training and case consultancy to care homes, hospices and charities serving this client group.

Following my own diagnosis with a rare neurological condition in 2022, I experienced months of hospitalisation and subsequent inpatient neurological rehabilitation. This required relearning fundamental skills including mobility and personal care. Initially I required substantial support and experienced significant physical limitations, I applied my professional expertise to my own recovery, ultimately regaining full independence. This personal experience, combined with years of NHS and private sector work in senior clinical roles across multiple locations, provides me with a unique perspective as both therapist and patient. I understand firsthand the physical, cognitive and emotional challenges faced by clients throughout their rehabilitation journey.

Professional Development

I maintain my current expertise through ongoing professional development by keeping up to date on cognitive rehabilitation, specialist equipment and seating post brain injury. I also regularly attend conferences and participate in independent occupational therapy professional groups.