Meet Paige Peterson – CPA Port Macquarie’s new physiotherapist

Hi, I’m Paige, and I’m thrilled to be a part of the Cerebral Palsy Alliance (CPA) team as a physiotherapist. It’s been my dream to work in a multidisciplinary team and help children with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy and autism spectrum disorder.

My passion for working at CPA was sparked by my partner, Andrew, who has CP, and my paediatric lecturer from university who had previously worked at CPA. Andrew’s CP mostly impacts his ability to communicate what he is thinking and feeling, which has allowed me to grow my communication skills and learn alternative forms of communication. Having someone in my life with a disability has changed my perspective as a health professional and helped me better understand the challenges associated with accessing and receiving therapy.

As a new graduate from Charles Sturt University, I have completed work placements in various hospitals throughout New South Wales, which taught me how to implement interventions, communicate professionally, and build perseverance and resilience skills. However, I’m particularly interested in specialising in paediatrics and other more specialised physiotherapy techniques such as serial casting, hydrotherapy, and AFO prescription. That’s why I’m committed to ongoing learning to stay up-to-date with the latest physiotherapy practices.

In my second week, I travelled to Sydney for a week-long training course, learning about how to administer specialised assessments and the different types of interventions we can provide as physiotherapists at CPA. The training and upskilling opportunities at CPA are unrivalled, allowing me to pass on specialised interventions within our community. I’m honoured to be part of this organisation, because of its commitment to ongoing research to better the understanding and knowledge surrounding CP and similar disabilities.

I bring passion, communication, and team-working skills, and a fresh perspective to CPA. I’m hoping to highlight the importance of physiotherapy for the community and help people access the services that best suit their needs. I’m passionate about working with other therapists to maximise client potential and make a real difference in their lives.

Outside of work, I love all things sport, especially netball and Formula 1. On weekends, I enjoy going camping with my friends and family and exploring all the amazing places our country has to offer.

Andrew, my partner, couldn’t be prouder of me working at CPA. Being a former client himself, he knows how amazing the services provided by CPA are and how they can help people with disabilities.

“I know that she will be able to help so many people and is so passionate about disability and people, her clients are lucky to have her,” he says.

I’m extremely excited to be a part of the team dedicated to making a difference in our community. I feel honoured to work within a company that is so passionate about disability and ongoing research to better understand and improve the lives of those with cerebral palsy and other disabilities.

I first moved to Port Macquarie in 2019 when I began university, and although the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted my studies, I’ve always considered Port Macquarie to be the best place to live. The sunny weather, pristine coastline, and incredible community spirit make it a special place to be.

I’m looking forward to working with new clients at CPA and helping to change lives.