When you ask VHA’s Deborah Spivak what she loves most about being an occupational therapist, her answer is simple: “I love making a difference.”

For nearly three decades, Deborah has been doing just that, helping people regain independence, adapt to challenges and continue doing the things that make life meaningful. Whether showing a client how to adjust to hand weakness, access a local meal delivery program or enjoy a hobby that was previously out of reach, Deborah’s dedication and care have left a lasting impact.

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From Curiosity to Calling

Deborah always knew she wanted to work in a career that combined science with helping people. With a physiotherapist sister and a psychiatrist brother, healthcare ran in the family. It was actually her sister who first suggested occupational therapy, which was a newer field at the time.

Deborah admits she didn’t fully understand occupational therapy at first, but she knew it brought together what mattered most to her: people, problem-solving and meaningful connections.

After earning her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy (OT) at McGill University in 1997, she began her career in acute mental health at a Toronto Hospital. At just 22, she was the only OT on staff across three sites, travelling by taxi between them. With no other OTs to learn from, she worked closely with nurses and psychologists to design programs from the ground up. “It was a great initiation and I learned so much in three and a half years,” she says, “but it was also very humbling.”

Looking for a change from the fast pace of hospital work, Deborah moved into private practice, focusing on work-related injuries, hand therapy and mental health support. She helped clients adapt after injury and safely return to work through workplace safety programs.

Finding Balance

As her family grew, Deborah needed more flexibility than private practice could offer. With no family nearby, she was looking for a way to balance raising children with a meaningful career. Nineteen years ago, she joined VHA Home HealthCare, which gave her exactly that.

“Nothing else would have allowed me to be there for nursery school drop-offs, field trips and everything in between,” she says. “Being able to create my own schedule meant I could support my clients while still being present for my family. That balance has meant the world to me.”

Her children are now 17, 21 and 23, and although their needs have changed, Deborah remains grateful for the flexibility her career provides.

The Heart of Home Care

When Deborah reflects on what has kept her in home care after nearly two decades, her answer always comes back to one thing: human connection. “I get to be let into people’s lives. I meet their family, see their photos, their pets—the things that matter to them. That’s what I love,” she says.

These connections make every day new and different and Deborah continues to experience countless moments with lasting impact. “One palliative client hadn’t played her piano in eight years. I cleared the clutter and set up supportive seating so she could spend her final months doing something she loved,” she shares.

“Another client once answered the door using an office chair and broom as a dangerous makeshift walker. Now she can move safely and confidently around her home. These are the moments that truly stand out.”

A Lasting Impact

After years of informally mentoring colleagues, Deborah recently stepped into a Clinical Lead role at VHA. She admits that she hesitated at first, especially around the extra documentation and technology requirements, but with the encouragement of her supervisor, she embraced the challenge. Now, her time is split between direct client care and supporting her peers through mentorship and clinical support.

“Occupational therapy isn’t just about your job or your career, as it’s sometimes mistaken to be. It’s about how you live your life and use your time,” Deborah explains. “And every visit is a chance to make life a little safer, easier and more meaningful. That’s why I love what I do.”

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This Occupational Therapy Month, we celebrate Deborah and all the VHA OTs who make life safer, easier and more fulfilling for the clients and families they support.