Karen Lochran

Clinical Tasks:

• Development & facilitation of group programs for patients attending mental health unit Eg: Living Skills component of Trauma Recovery Program (PTSD); Leisure, Social & Community Skills groups; A.D.A.P.T. Program (Anxiety & Depression: Activity & Psychological Therapy); OT component of Alcohol Management Program; My Recovery & My Stay Well inpatient sessions
• Provision of individual therapy, supported by evidence-based practice & recovery framework: development of goals & care plans for referred patients (participants) with a range of mental health needs & physical health conditions (Eg: PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance misuse, chronic pain, personality disorders, suicidal ideation, psychosocial stressors). Primarily ex-service personnel, current Aust. Defence Force (ADF) members & their partners/families/carers
• Conducted OT functional assessments, equipment prescription, home visits & referral to community service providers
• Participation in weekly multidisciplinary team reviews of treatment recovery care plans
• Participation in continuing professional development (CPD) activities to support registration requirements & evidence-based best practice
• Maintenance of documentation standards, administration tasks & mandatory training

Senior Tasks:

• Coordination of Allied Health staffing for mental health service at GPH, including recruitment, rostering, performance reviews, supervision & CPD support
• Effective collaboration with all members of the multidisciplinary team, to maintain a positive & cohesive work environment
• Participation in accreditation & quality improvement activities
• Participation in team meetings & support Allied Health Manager

Significant Achievements:

Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation (GMRF), GPH Innovation Grant Recipient – Lead applicant

• 2012-2013: An exploratory study investigating physiological & psychological outcomes of a multidisciplinary healthy lifestyle program for ex-service personnel experiencing mental illness
• 2016-2017: Pilot study investigating efficacy of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for treatment of military-related PTSD in a Trauma Recovery Program (TRP)

GMRF collaboration with the Keith Payne Unit, GPH (KPU mental health team)

• 2021-2022: Veteran Reintegration Study - Transition from Service to Civilian Life

Professional Tasks:

• Conducted assessments & provided tailored treatment for individuals, presenting with a range of mental disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety & eating disorders
• Designed & facilitated group programs & psychoeducation sessions, in collaboration with multidisciplinary team (e.g. Healthy Lifestyles, Self-Esteem, Music, Art & Community Integration)
• Provided individual follow-up & care coordination with community mental health team