The OTalk Team
The OTalk team has continued to evolve and change since it was first developed in 2011. Over more than a decade the chat and wider community have grown and adapted in many different ways.
We are incredibly thankful for the input and commitment of the many occupational therapists who have been part of the team along the way. Their energy, creativity, and ideas have helped to shape OTalk and inspire innovation.
These former team members can be found here.
Current Team Members
OTalk is volunteer led and today the team is two people. Together Rachel and Nikki are leading OTalk into its new chapter on the RCOT Communities platform.
Rachel Booth-Gardiner @OT_rach
Rachel joined OTalk in 2015 and remains a core organiser. She is the Lead Occupational Therapist at TEWV NHS Foundation Trust with over 20 years’ experience in mental health and learning disabilities, and has held multiple leadership roles. Rachel is the Network Lead of the RCOT Northern and Yorkshire Regional Network, co-founded AbleOTUK in 2021, and serves as a Public Governor for South Tees NHS Foundation Trust as well as TEWV Unison Disabled Members Officer. A wheelchair user, blogger, feminist, and disability activist, she focuses on equity, diversity, belonging, and accessible CPD. In 2023 she received a Merit Award from the Royal College of Occupational Therapists for services to the profession.
Dr Nikki Daniels @NikkiDanielsOT
Dr Nikki Daniels is the Head of Professional Development at the Royal College of Occupational Therapists. She is passionate about learning and development through communities, believing deeply in the power of learning from and with each other.
Nikki joined #OTalk in 2016 as part of the research team, helping to run the monthly research-themed chats on the first Tuesday of each month. With many years’ experience as a lecturer supporting occupational therapists at master’s level, she brings a rich understanding of professional growth and reflective practice.
OTalk 