Anna Maria qualified as an occupational therapist in 1988. She is a dedicated and highly skilled occupational therapist who has worked in the NHS in a variety of roles since qualifying from Salford University. Anna Maria has developed enhanced skills in the assessment of occupational performance through clinical work in the acute hospital sector, community sector and as a specialist in complex cancer and palliative care within both in-patient and community settings. She also has experience in the private sector and in local authority work.

Anna Maria is extremely well-versed in moving and handling, particularly where pain is involved and for end-of-life patients and their carers. She specialises in functional assessment and utilises a solution-focused approach to problem solving. She has developed extensive knowledge of specialist equipment and minor adaptations through this work. Anna Maria has also acquired skills in assessing for wheelchairs, having worked in several wheelchair-services, she also has experience working with people with prosthetics.

Anna Maria is passionate about improving the quality of life for people with life-limiting conditions ensuring that environment is not a barrier. Anna Maria is also a registered lymphoedema practitioner and specialises in enabling people to manage their long-term condition, supporting with lifestyle change management that maybe required for this.

Anna Maria actively develops and maintains her clinical skills through regular post-graduate training and is a member of the RCOT Major Conditions specialist section.