[00:00:00] Hi, I'm Beki Eakins, Business Mindset and Lifestyle Coach for Occupational Therapists. I focus on creating a freedom-based online business, helping OTs package their skills into unique and exciting offers that sell with ease in the online space. Since leaving the profession of OT, I’ve worked with hundreds of clients online, helping them create lives they feel inspired by.
[00:00:35] Hello, and welcome back to the OT Yourself to Freedom Podcast. I'm your host, Beki. Today's episode is all about paediatric OTs. I’ve never done this before, but this entire episode is dedicated to why paediatric occupational therapists are so suited to having an online business.
[00:01:10] If you are a paediatric OT and you’ve felt stuck in the constraints of traditional therapy models, or if you think that’s the only way to practice, this episode is for you. One common concern I hear is, “Children can’t go online.” While that may be partly true, there are so many other things you can do.
[00:02:00] If you’re looking to create a bigger impact while achieving more freedom in your life, it’s entirely possible. You’re in a very unique position, and I’m going to tell you why.
[00:02:35] I’ve never singled out one area of OT on this podcast before, but the stats don’t lie. The fastest-growing and most successful clients I’ve worked with are paediatric OTs. That’s not to say other areas of OT aren’t successful—it’s just that paediatric OTs have a particularly good opportunity right now.
[00:03:25] Many of my paediatric OT clients have created high-ticket offers and made sales within a few weeks of starting my programme. Parents are eager for solutions, and they admire the work that paediatric OTs do. When these OTs pivot to a business model that offers transformation, their services sell like hotcakes.
[00:04:45] There’s never been a time like this in history. Post-COVID, parents are more empowered than ever. They’ve gained enough knowledge to recognise unique traits in their children but often lack the resources to address them fully. This places paediatric OTs at the heart of the solution.
[00:05:55] Parents are actively seeking advice and support on developmental skills like eating, dressing, and toileting. Schools are also reporting higher numbers of children attending without basic skills, such as toilet training, which impacts the classroom environment. Paediatric OTs have the skills to help, and parents are desperate for these services.
[00:07:00] The education system also needs support. High demands on staff, low levels of training in special needs, and gaps in statutory services make paediatric OTs invaluable. Coaching for teachers or offering tailored support to educational institutions could create a significant impact.
[00:08:10] Mental health is another critical area where paediatric OTs can shine. Long waiting times for statutory services and gaps in provision mean parents and schools are searching for alternatives. This demand provides an incredible opportunity for OTs to step into the space.
[00:09:15] Parents often seek the best services for their children, even if that means paying privately. This willingness to invest in their child’s wellbeing creates a strong market for paediatric OTs in the online space.
[00:11:00] Transitioning into the online space doesn’t mean abandoning face-to-face interaction. Many of my clients choose hybrid models, which allow them to balance in-person work with online offerings.
[00:12:10] One of my first clients, Chanel, struggled with having limited time to work with children. She recognised that parents often lacked the knowledge to continue the progress at home. By addressing this gap through her online business, she achieved rapid success, hitting ÂŁ10k months within five months.
[00:14:00] Traditional therapy models can limit your impact, but online ventures allow you to scale. Instead of helping 20 families locally, you could reach hundreds globally with an online programme. This amplifies your impact and creates a ripple effect in communities.
[00:16:10] Sensory processing, neurodiversity, and trauma are hot topics that paediatric OTs can address online. Social media and online platforms provide an incredible opportunity to educate and support families at scale.
[00:18:30] Neurodiverse OTs often make excellent entrepreneurs. Their creativity, empathy, and problem-solving skills are assets in the online space. Building a business that aligns with your unique strengths can lead to both personal and professional fulfilment.
[00:20:00] If you’re ready to start your online business, focus on identifying your niche, expanding your vision, and joining a supportive community. The OT Freedom Collective is here to help you every step of the way.
[00:25:30] Paediatric OTs have the power to create transformative businesses while achieving the freedom lifestyle they dream of. The tools, demand, and opportunities are waiting—what’s stopping you from getting started?
