When a High Five Means Everything.

For most of us, it’s just a gesture.
For an occupational therapist, it’s a sign that trust, growth, and belonging are taking root.

A simple high five or a hug is how this occupational therapist measures her success

Straits Times Feature: 16 February 2025

Featured Occupational Therapists:
Lim Yu Jie, Assistant Senior Occupational Therapist @ Rainbow Centre

In Rainbow Centre’s occupational therapy room, Ms Lim Yu Jie helps students improve their ability in daily tasks through play-based activities.

Occupational Therapist Lim Yu Jie’s journey began long before her professional training, rooted in a childhood encounter that ignited her commitment to supporting people with disabilities. Today, she brings that same compassion and persistence to her work at Rainbow Centre, where she supports adolescents with moderate to severe disabilities.

Her therapeutic approach is built on trust — small, consistent interactions that help students feel safe before deeper work can begin. This foundation allows her to address functional skills such as daily living tasks, sensory regulation, classroom engagement, and social participation, always tailoring strategies to each student’s needs.

One of her most meaningful partnerships has been with 11-year-old Aryan, who initially struggled with communication and emotional regulation. Through close collaboration with his teacher and parents, Yu Jie identified sensory strategies — such as using a body sock, pressure massage, or sipping cold water — that help him stay calm and focused. These approaches were reinforced across home and school, enabling Aryan to take greater control of his emotions, even during a long flight for his family’s pilgrimage to Mecca.

Aryan’s progress, especially his ability to self-regulate, reflects Yu Jie’s belief that small, well-supported breakthroughs can transform a child’s confidence and independence. Guided by teamwork and a commitment to inclusion, she continues to push for a society where people feel empowered — not uncertain — about engaging those with disabilities.

(Source: The Straits Times)