Sonya O’Neill

Working within a multidisciplinary team providing vocational support for employees returning to work post injury. Liaising with employers, GP’s, surgeons and ACC case managers. Developing Stay at Work (SAW) plans and writing reports for ACC under various contracts. I was on the Concussion and Pain Management teams and held the Social Media Manager role. I also worked in the occ health nursing space providing physical health assessments, monitoring, flu vaccines and drug and alcohol testing.

• This involves working with players to develop good financial planning, asset protection, career / study pathways and professional rugby support
• The role largely provides wellbeing support e.g., assessment, brief intervention, referral, promotion of wellbeing tools and strategies, working with players regarding their strengths and developing a sense of connection and identity
• I also support players with their Return to Play plan following physical injury, concussion, or wellbeing issues
• I follow holistic models of health and wellbeing, predominately the Te Whare Ta Pa Wha model and most recently Fonofale
• I work collaboratively with our management team regarding our culture, of which I played a key role in the development of Hautoa Kia Toa the Highlanders Haka.

• Delivered culturally sensitive services to diverse client populations, addressing unique needs and fostering inclusivity within the organization.
• Championed agency-wide initiatives aimed at enhancing service delivery and promoting a culture of continuous improvement within the organization.
• Provided crisis intervention support for clients in distress, offering immediate assistance and referrals to appropriate resources.
• Developed professional relationships with community partners, enhancing collaboration efforts for better client outcomes.

April 2010 – April 2013

The Homebase Detox Service – The Ashburn Clinic – 2nd in charge community detox nurse

May 2009 – April 2010

Outpatient Groups – SDHB - facilitating psychotherapy groups

2008 April – May 2009

Health Services Executive West Co Clare, Ireland - relief mental health nurse

2001 Dec – July 2007

The Ashburn Clinic – Mental health nurse, facilitating the program, Duty leader for night shifts, 2ndin Charge and Acting Charge Nurse position

2000 Nov – Oct 2001

Wakari Hospital – Acute mental health nurse, secure ward, shift duty leader responsibilities

Jan 1999 – Nov 2000

Healthlink South Hillmorton – Mental Health Nurse – various specialty wards i.e. Intellectual disabilities, early intervention, Mothers and babies, eating disorders service.

Prior to Jan 1999 – various jobs over the years involving caring for the elderly