Advanced Clinical Practitioner Occupational Therapist – Joanne McLoughlin

With more than 32 years of experience, Joanne is a highly respected Advanced Clinical Practitioner Occupational Therapist whose career spans the NHS, private and public sectors, and charitable organisations. Her work has always been rooted in a deep belief that effective therapy must treat the whole person. Whether an individual is living with physical illness, disability, trauma or psychological challenges, Joanne brings a holistic, compassionate and evidence‑based approach to every assessment and intervention.

Over the course of her career, Joanne has developed specialist expertise in fatigue‑related conditions, particularly ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Her commitment to improving outcomes for people with complex fatigue led her to establish the North West Fatigue Clinic, where she developed structured pathways for assessment, treatment and long‑term management. She is known for her ability to analyse activity patterns, support individuals in achieving a healthy balance of rest and activity, and design graded return‑to‑work or return‑to‑education plans that are both realistic and empowering. With a diploma in Mindfulness, she also integrates relaxation and mindfulness‑based strategies into her therapeutic work, offering patients practical tools to manage stress, pain and fatigue.

Joanne’s clinical practice extends to specialist seating and postural assessments for older adults, particularly those living with Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. She is skilled in identifying the subtle physical, cognitive and environmental factors that influence comfort, safety and independence. Her recommendations are always tailored, practical and grounded in a deep understanding of the person’s needs and daily routines.

In addition to her clinical caseload, Joanne plays an important role in medico‑legal and workplace settings. She supports lawyers, case managers and employers by providing clear, comprehensive functional assessments and Initial Needs Assessments, ensuring that individuals receive the adjustments, equipment and rehabilitation they require. Her reports are valued for their clarity, structure and clinical robustness, and she works closely with trusted tradespeople to ensure that all recommended adaptations are completed to a high standard.

Joanne also works as an Advanced Clinical Practitioner within the Central Lancashire NHS Community Pain Management and ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome service, where she continues to contribute to service development, research and high‑quality patient care. Her leadership experience is equally notable: she spent eight years as Managing Director of an award‑winning care home and four years as Clinical Director of the North West Fatigue Clinic. These roles have strengthened her ability to lead teams, develop services and maintain the highest standards of care.

Her dedication has been recognised at a national level. In 2015, Joanne won the Lancashire Care NHS Trust Care with Compassion award, selected from more than 7,000 staff for her outstanding work in Palliative Care. In 2025, she was shortlisted for an NHS Innovation Award, reflecting her ongoing commitment to improving clinical practice and patient experience.

Patients consistently describe Joanne as empathetic, compassionate and empowering. She brings structure and clarity to complex situations, helping individuals feel understood, supported and confident in their rehabilitation journey. Whether working face‑to‑face in someone’s home or offering remote sessions via Zoom or telephone, she ensures that every person receives thoughtful, personalised and effective care.

Outside of her professional life, Joanne enjoys walking, travelling and visiting the theatre — activities that reflect her belief in balance, wellbeing and meaningful occupation.