Meet Sarah
Senior Occupational Therapist and Director
My special interest in supporting children with complex disabilities to improve their self-regulation for learning. As an Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) Certified Therapist, I bring advanced knowledge in sensory integration therapy and assessment to support children with complex sensory needs.
I have a particular interest in somatosensory dyspraxia and how this impacts a child's ability to develop efficient and adaptive motor responses. I am also particularly interested in how sensory processing challenges can manifest as challenging behaviours. I enjoy working to uncover the “why” behind a child’s actions, exploring the sensory, emotional, and environmental factors that may be contributing to their responses and developing tailored strategies and treatment approaches that foster regulation, safety, and connection.
About me
Sarah is a senior paediatric occupational therapist who brings extensive clinical experience, leadership, and a strong commitment to evidence-based practice when supporting children and their families. Sarah has completed her certification in Ayres Sensory Integration®, an internationally recognised qualification that demonstrates advanced knowledge and training in sensory integration assessment and intervention. This specialised training allows Sarah to support children who experience complex sensory processing challenges that impact their daily living skills, emotional regulation, participation in school, and engagement in everyday activities.
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Sarah has significant experience working closely with schools, particularly Special Schools for Specific Purposes (SSPs). Through these partnerships, she collaborates with teachers, school leaders, and support staff to provide whole-school recommendations that support students with diverse learning and sensory needs. Sarah has also delivered workshops and professional learning sessions to large groups of specialist educators, sharing practical strategies for supporting challenging behaviours, sensory differences, and participation in the classroom.
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In addition to her clinical work, Sarah also contributes to the development of future therapists through her role as an academic at university, where she teaches in the child and adolescent paediatric occupational therapy unit. She is passionate about mentoring the next generation of clinicians and ensuring emerging therapists are equipped with strong clinical reasoning and practical skills to support children and families.
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Sarah also has a strong interest in research and innovation, particularly in exploring new and effective ways to support children with disabilities to participate more confidently in their everyday environments. Her approach to therapy is collaborative, thoughtful, and family-centred, ensuring that goals are meaningful and strategies are practical for both children and the people supporting them.
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Families often seek Sarah’s support when their child is experiencing complex sensory needs, regulation challenges, difficulties participating at school, or barriers to independence in everyday tasks. Sarah is known for her warm and engaging style, and for creating therapy experiences that help children feel understood, capable, and proud of their progress.