Q: What inspired you to become an Occupational Therapist?

A: I've always been drawn to helping people find ways to live their lives to the fullest. Occupational Therapy really resonated with me because it takes a holistic view – looking at the whole person, their environment, and the activities that are meaningful to them. My previous roles as a support worker and therapy assistant provided me firsthand insight into the challenges people can face and solidified my desire to gain the clinical skills to empower them more directly. OT allows me to combine problem-solving, creativity, and a genuine desire to make a practical difference in people's lives.

Q: What is your approach to therapy?

A: My approach is friendly and collaborative. My final year thesis for OT was centered around the strength-based and neurodiversity-affirming approach and supporting the experiences of autistic youth to create a safe and supportive environment. This is something I will bring to Estus Health!

Q: Can you tell us about your work experience before becoming an OT?

A: Before qualifying as an OT, I gained valuable experience in several roles as a pharmacy retail sales assistant, support worker and therapy assistant. These experiences have provided me a strong foundation in understanding different perspectives and the importance of clear, empathetic communication.

Q: How do your personal interests influence your work?

A: My interests definitely shape how I connect with people and approach therapy!

Anime & Gaming: These hobbies give me an appreciation for creativity, narrative, and different ways people engage and find 'flow'. It helps me understand clients who share these interests, build rapport, and sometimes even find creative ways to incorporate elements of gaming or storytelling into therapy activities if appropriate.

Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

A: Outside of work, I love staying active! You might find me playing futsal, going for walks or runs, or occasionally hitting the gym. I also enjoy watching anime (always open to recommendations!) and playing video games to wind down.

Q: Are you currently accepting new clients?

A: Yes, I'm currently welcoming new clients for online therapy sessions!

Q: What's the most rewarding part of being an OT for you?

A: The most rewarding part is seeing the positive impact therapy can have on someone's life. Witnessing a client achieve a goal they've been working towards, whether it's mastering a daily task, returning to a beloved hobby, or simply feeling more confident in their abilities, is incredibly fulfilling. It's about empowering people to participate more fully in the activities that give their life meaning.

Q: So, who are you and what do you do?

A: Hi there! I’m Liam Fagan, an Occupational Therapist and the founder of Estus Health. My professional background is quite eclectic—I hold undergraduate degrees in Accounting and Finance as well as Occupational Therapy, along with a Master’s in Finance and Banking. I've also studied Information Science, Sports Psychology, English Literature, Computer Science, and Machine Learning.

Q: What’s your therapeutic style like?

A: My approach is friendly, relaxed, and collaborative, with a particular emphasis on gaming-informed therapy and the unmasking of autism. I strongly believe in a strengths-based, neuro-affirmative approach, which means my sessions are all about promoting your autonomy, choice, and independence while respecting your preferred communication style and sensory needs. It’s all geared towards creating safe, supportive environments tailored specifically to you.

Q: Who typically comes to see you?

A: I see clients of all ages, many of whom are navigating issues around Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), difficulties engaging with traditional therapies, or who need support rebuilding trust with institutional structures. Together, we explore autism as a unique set of strengths to build upon rather than a deficit to overcome.

Q: Why is this work important to you?

A: I was diagnosed autistic later in life myself, so my professional ethos is deeply influenced by principles of occupational justice and community inclusion. I'm passionate about helping people find independence and genuine satisfaction in life—not by trying to change who they are, but by adapting environments and maximising their natural strengths.

Q: Do you offer any specialised assessments?

A: Yes—I provide assessments specifically tailored to understanding your neurotype, unmasking autism, and finding the best ways to support your executive functioning. I'm also known for my innovative gaming-based interventions, which my clients find both enjoyable and highly effective.

Q: What did you do before becoming an OT?

A: My career has taken several interesting turns! I previously worked in library sciences, including roles in academic libraries and team management. I've also gathered extensive experience as a disability support worker, therapy assistant, senior rehabilitation consultant, paediatric OT, and community-based disability OT.

Q: Are you currently accepting new clients?

A: Referrals are currently on hold while I recover from a bulging disc in my back and have a reduced caseload. 

Q: What do you get up to when you're not working?

A: Outside of work, I enjoy a range of hobbies—from building PCs and lock-picking, to playing video games and relaxing by watching dash-cam footage (it’s surprisingly soothing!). You’ll often find me out and about on my electric scooter, spending time with my baby, or enjoying visits to the zoo and aquarium.