Our Allied Health Team

Sam brings more than two decades of experience in business support roles, offering a strong foundation in operational management within the Allied Health sector. As Business Support Manager, she plays a vital role in ensuring that families receive a welcoming and seamless experience from their first point of contact through ongoing service delivery. 

Sam is deeply passionate about people achieving their goals and is committed to maintaining the highest quality of services. Her work supports clinicians and ensures systems are in place for clients to access therapy that truly makes a difference in their lives.
 

Read more about about Sam HERE.

Claire is a qualified Developmental Educator and the Clinical Lead at Hessel Group, bringing expertise in disability support and a deep commitment to inclusion. After welcoming her second daughter in 2023, Claire returned to her role with a renewed passion for helping children with disabilities access the highest quality of life possible. She holds an Honours degree in Developmental Education and has a strong track record of supporting individuals through collaborative, strengths-based approaches. 

Claire leads the clinical team with warmth and clarity, advocating for practices that celebrate individuality and support families at every step.

Read more about Claire HERE.

Sharna is a Registered Psychologist with a background in Behavioural Science and advanced psychological training. She completed her Bachelor’s degree at Swinburne University and her Graduate Diploma in Psychology Advanced at Monash University. Sharna has experience in behaviour support and disability settings and has a particular interest in working with neurodivergent clients. She approaches each client with compassion and curiosity, using evidence-based strategies to support mental health and well-being. 

Sharna is passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
 

Read more about Sharna HERE.

Joyce is a qualified Physiotherapist with an Honours degree from the University of South Australia. She has developed a strong foundation in paediatric and disability-focused physiotherapy, with experience spanning private practice, early intervention, and community-based services. Joyce works closely with children and young adults to support motor development, mobility, and independence. Her holistic and family-centred approach empowers each child to participate actively in their daily environments. 

She is incredibly passionate about early intervention and goal-driven outcomes.

Read more about Joyce HERE.

Kaylee is a compassionate Speech Pathologist who supports clients with communication and swallowing challenges. A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Speech Pathology, she brings a fresh perspective to therapy, grounded in evidence-based practice and cultural sensitivity. Kaylee’s multicultural background enriches her ability to connect with diverse families, and she is currently furthering her expertise through a Master of Audiology. 

She has a particular interest in dysphagia and is passionate about creating safe, empowering environments for children to grow and communicate with confidence.

Read more about Kaylee HERE.

Anthea is a qualified Speech Pathologist with a Bachelor of Arts in Experimental Linguistics and English Language Linguistics from the University of Toronto and a Master of Speech Pathology from Flinders University. She has experience working with individuals who have swallowing and communication difficulties due to developmental delays, brain injuries, or neurological conditions. 

Anthea is passionate about holistic care and works closely with families to create meaningful, individualised therapy plans that promote participation, engagement, and improved quality of life.

Read more about Anthea HERE.

Jonathan or 'Jay' is a Psychologist with a Bachelor of Psychological Science from the University of Adelaide and a Graduate Diploma in Psychology Advanced from Monash University. He is currently completing a PhD through the University of Melbourne and Orygen Youth Mental Health, with a focus on social anxiety in autistic individuals. Jay has experience supporting clients with complex and co-occurring mental health challenges. He uses a variety of evidence-based approaches, including cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness, to help clients navigate life with greater confidence and emotional resilience.
 

Read more about Jay HERE.

Kristiaan is a Provisional Psychologist with a strong academic foundation, holding a First-Class Honours degree in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of South Australia, as well as a Diploma in Counselling from the Australian College of Applied Psychology. His background includes experience in performance coaching and change management, which he integrates into his therapeutic work. 

Kristiaan has a particular interest in trauma, grief, anxiety, crisis intervention, and suicide-related challenges. He uses an empathetic, evidence-based approach to support individuals through personal growth, helping them navigate complex emotional and psychological experiences with confidence and care.
 

Read more about Kristiaan HERE.

Katherine is a Provisional Psychologist and registered teacher with a Master's degree in Professional Psychology from the University of New England. With a strong background in education, she has extensive experience working with individuals with specific learning needs, including autism, dyslexia, and challenges with working memory. 

Katherine uses a diverse toolkit of evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Positive Psychology. She is passionate about creating therapeutic spaces where clients feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Read more about Katherine HERE.

Nives is a qualified Art Therapist who holds a double Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Communication and Media Arts from the University of South Australia, as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts Psychotherapy from the IKON Institute of Australia. She has a strong focus on trauma-informed care and specialises in supporting individuals navigating mental health challenges, PTSD, neurodivergence, and complex family systems. 

Through the creative process of art-making, Nives helps clients explore their inner world, express their experiences, and build emotional resilience. She is committed to creating a safe, inclusive therapeutic space where clients are empowered to reconnect with their strengths and sense of identity.
 

Read more about Nives HERE.

Jagrati is a skilled Occupational Therapist who specialises in supporting children to develop key skills for daily living, learning, and social participation. She holds a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from India and a Master of Occupational Therapy from an Australian university, bringing a well-rounded, global perspective to her work. 

Jagrati’s approach is holistic and individualised, focusing on areas such as gross and fine motor development, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and communication. She works collaboratively with families to create supportive and structured environments where children can thrive. Jagrati is also an advocate for mental health and emotional wellbeing, recognising their importance in every child’s overall development. 

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time in nature, exploring new places, and capturing sunsets. Her caring nature and dedication to inclusive, client-centred care allow her to build strong, trusting relationships with the children and families she supports.

Stephen is a Behaviour Support Practitioner and Counsellor who holds a Bachelor of Psychological Science and a Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy. He has worked with a wide range of clients, supporting individuals with complex mental health and behavioural needs across different life stages. 

Stephen combines clinical insight with deep empathy, aiming to help individuals make sustainable, meaningful changes. His approach is centred on trust, collaboration, and helping clients feel empowered in their personal development journeys.
 

Read more about Stephen HERE.

Davor is a Behaviour Support Practitioner currently completing a Bachelor of Teaching with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Psychology. He is passionate about supporting individuals through personalised, evidence-based strategies that improve daily functioning and promote positive behaviour. 

Davor takes a person-centred approach to his work, building rapport and trust with clients and their families. His commitment to learning and growth informs his ability to adapt supports that meet each individual's unique needs and aspirations.

Read more about Davor HERE.

Tabitha is a Behaviour Support Practitioner and Registered Behaviour Technician with a Bachelor of Behavioural Sciences from Flinders University. She is passionate about empowering individuals to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. 

Tabitha specialises in implementing Positive Behaviour Support frameworks that are both evidence-based and deeply compassionate. Her approach is grounded in respect, inclusion, and collaboration, helping clients work toward meaningful goals in supportive and structured environments.

Read more about Tabitha HERE.

Michael is a Behaviour Support Practitioner with a Master of Social Work from Flinders University and registration through the Australian Community Workers Association and the Australian Association of Social Workers. His professional experience spans child, youth, and disability services, strongly focusing on inclusive practice and community engagement. 

Michael is committed to person-centred, strengths-based approaches that build capacity and self-determination in the individuals he supports. He values communication, respect, and relationship-building as key to achieving positive behavioural outcomes.
 

Read more about Michael HERE.

William is a Behaviour Support Practitioner who holds a Bachelor of Psychology and a Positive Behaviour Support Certificate from Monash University. He is driven by a passion for understanding the root causes of behaviour, particularly the beliefs and decisions—conscious and unconscious—that shape how people engage with the world. 

William takes a thoughtful, inquisitive approach to his work and builds strong connections with clients through shared interests such as video games, films, and sports. He is committed to fostering environments that are safe, structured, and conducive to growth.

Learn about Hessel Group's Behaviour Support Services HERE!

George is a Developmental Educator and Behaviour Support Practitioner with a Bachelor of Teaching/Arts from the University of Adelaide and postgraduate studies in Disability Policy and Practice at Flinders University. He has a natural ability to connect with children and individuals on the autism spectrum, creating person-centred support strategies that promote independence, confidence, and quality of life. 

George is dedicated to celebrating each individual’s strengths while identifying opportunities for development and growth. His practical, strengths-based approach is grounded in empathy and collaboration. Beyond his clinical work, 

George has a wide range of interests including soccer, camping, astronomy, and video games—particularly virtual reality experiences. A tech enthusiast, he enjoys using modern tools like drones to engage creatively with the world. His enthusiasm, curiosity, and calm nature make him a valued practitioner and a relatable presence for clients and families alike.

Learn about Hessel Group's Behaviour Support Services HERE!

Maddy is a dedicated Developmental Educator and Behaviour Support Practitioner with a Bachelor of Disability and Developmental Education. She brings a thoughtful and compassionate approach to her work, creating inclusive, supportive environments where individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered to grow. 

Madison takes pride in building authentic, trusting relationships with her clients, and she tailors each support plan to reflect their unique identity, goals, and lived experiences. She values the importance of recognising and celebrating strengths, while also working with clients to identify opportunities for personal development. 

Madison’s professional philosophy centres on emotional safety, dignity, and collaboration. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors—particularly camping and beach visits—and dreams of one day living on a hobby farm. Her passion for wellness and nature complements her nurturing, holistic approach to practice.

Learn about Hessel Group's Behaviour Support Services HERE!

Luke is a Core Behaviour Support Practitioner with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sport Psychology and several years of experience delivering personalised, evidence-based behavioural interventions. He has supported NDIS participants across diverse age groups and needs, helping individuals build functional skills, engage meaningfully with their communities, and enhance their quality of life. 

Luke integrates the principles of sport psychology—motivation, goal-setting, resilience—into his work, encouraging clients to build confidence and work toward meaningful outcomes. He is passionate about delivering person-centred supports that focus on strengths and foster long-term independence. 

Outside of work, Luke leads an active lifestyle and enjoys fitness training, travel, and reading. He values continuous learning and is always exploring new ideas to enhance his professional practice.

Learn about Hessel Group's Behaviour Support Services HERE!

Doinita is an experienced Intake Officer with nearly 20 years of service across individual and family support sectors, including out-of-home care, emergency accommodation, and NDIS coordination. She began her career at Hessel Group as a Positive Behaviour Support Therapist and now applies her broad expertise to assist clients through the intake process. 

Doinita is passionate about guiding individuals and families as they navigate their NDIS plans, ensuring they understand their options and feel confident in accessing the support they need. Her warm and knowledgeable approach fosters trust, clarity, and a smooth transition into services.

Read more about Doinita HERE.

Liesa is a Business Support Officer who has been with the Hessel Group for over 15 years. She has spent a decade in finance and payroll before moving into her current role, where she supports the operational needs of the Allied Health team. Liesa brings lived experience with disability, which gives her a unique and empathetic insight into the challenges faced by clients and families navigating the NDIS. 

She is passionate about advocating for accessible systems and ensuring that every person who accesses support through Hessel Group feels respected, informed, and well cared for.

Learn about Hessel Group's Disability Support Services Here!