Meet The Team

Kerry graduated from physiotherapy at University of Melbourne and has over 20 years experience working in paediatric physiotherapy. Her work has included both clinical and service development roles in a range of acute and community settings including University College Hospital in London, The Royal Children’s Hospita, Melbourne.

Kerry works as a physiotherapist as well as Clinical Manager at Children’s Therapy Services and is also involved in post-graduate teaching at Monash University. Her qualifications include Bachelor of Physiotherapy (hons), Graduate Certificate in Physiotherapy (Paediatrics), Graduate Certificate in Rural Paediatric Practice and Master of Physiotherapy.

Kerry has undertaken a range of professional Development in Australia and overseas including attending the AusACPDM conferences, Down Syndrome Congress, Developmental Co-ordination Disorder conference, the European Academy of Childhood Disability conferences, and the Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy conference.

Along with others in the team at Children’s Therapy Services she has completed training in the administration and interpretation of Bayley Scales of Infant Development (4th Edition) as well as being involved in the standardisation project for this assessment. Kerry has trained in using the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Evaluation and other assessments, and uses these as part of a holistic, child and family-centered approach to working with children and families.

Kerry has been involved in research and publications including ‘The use of videoconferencing to enhance interprofessional clinical education for allied health students’ and ‘Botulinum toxin in obstetric brachial plexus palsy’ and ongoing research and professional development is both an area of interest and a high priority.

Abhi completed her Doctor of Physiotherapy at the University of Melbourne in 2016. Abhi has experience working in special developmental school settings and in private practice. Abhi has experience working with paediatric populations with a variety of conditions including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, Prader-Willi syndrome, Down Syndrome, as well as other genetic and neurodevelopmental disorders. Abhi is also a qualified Austswim instructor and enjoys running hydrotherapy sessions. Abhi has completed various professional developments such as Paediatric Physiotherapy Level 1 course and Neuro-Development Therapy: Understanding Normal Movement for Paediatric Therapist. Abhi is always looking for opportunities to learn and further her knowledge and experience as a paediatric physiotherapist. Abhi enjoys working collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team.

Marlene is an experienced and caring paediatric physiotherapist who is passionate about working with children, their families and wider support network to achieve their goals. She provides individually tailored physiotherapy for children in a variety of environments from hospital or clinic, through to home, childcare, school, the local playground, or pool!

Marlene graduated from Charles Sturt University with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy in 2005 and completed Melbourne University’s Specialist Certificate in Paediatric Orthopaedic Physiotherapy in 2011. Since university, she has worked in tertiary inpatient and outpatient settings including the Victorian Paediatric Rehabilitation Service (VPRS), and paediatric orthopaedic clinics.

Marlene has extensive experience working with infants, children, and adolescents with a broad range of conditions including, but not limited to, developmental delay, delayed motor milestones, postural and gait variations (e.g., flat feet, knock knees, in-toeing, toe walking), plagiocephaly, torticollis, casting and splinting, cerebral palsy, and neuromuscular conditions (e.g., Charcot Marie Tooth and congenital myopathies).

Marlene has completed additional training in standardised assessment techniques and outcome measures such as the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development IV, Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS), Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (HINE), Prechtl’s General Movement Assessment, Neurosensory Motor Developmental Assessment (NSMDA) and Movement ABC II, which can be used to evaluate progress or provide a formal report of your child’s abilities.

Coming soon.

Kelly is a seasoned physiotherapist with a deep-seated commitment to the well-being and development of children. With an extensive background in the field, Kelly has become a trusted name in paediatric care, known for her holistic and comprehensive approach to therapy.

Kelly understands that each child is unique, and so are their needs. Her holistic approach focuses on the whole child, recognising that physical development is closely linked to emotional, social, and cognitive growth. She believes that by addressing all these aspects, children can reach their full potential.

Kelly’s expertise spans a broad spectrum of paediatric physiotherapy, including:

1. Infant Development: Kelly is highly skilled in supporting infants’ early motor and physical development. She recognizes the importance of these formative years and helps parents and caregivers navigate this critical period.

2. Complex Neurological Conditions: With advanced knowledge and experience, Kelly provides specialised care for children with complex neurological conditions. Her innovative approaches and tailored interventions make a significant impact on young people’s lives.

3. Equipment Prescription: Kelly is well-versed in the selection and prescription of equipment that enhances a child’s mobility and comfort. She works closely with families to ensure that the equipment chosen is the best fit for each individual.

One of Kelly’s distinctive strengths is her ability to collaborate with families. She understands the importance of involving parents and caregivers in their child’s development. By working together and tailoring interventions to the individual needs of each child, Kelly ensures a holistic and effective approach that maximises progress.

Kelly’s warm, caring, and empathetic nature creates a supportive environment where children and families can flourish.

Alex is a clinical psychology registrar who works with children and their families from infancy to adolescence, who present with a wide variety of emotional, social, behavioural, developmental, and learning concerns.
Alex has worked with children, adolescents, and families in a wide variety of paediatric mental health settings, including private practice, as well as community and hospital-based services. Alex has a specific interest in anxiety and mood disorders. Alex provides assessment and intervention for a range of complex concerns, including neurodevelopmental disorders, anxiety and depressive disorders, behavioural difficulties, emotional regulation, sleep disturbance, self-esteem, and school-based issues.

Alex has experience providing assessment and treatment in an early intervention model and research setting, completing developmental assessments, and is trained in completing cognitive and Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessments. Alex is involved in the development and facilitation of the Autism Assessment Clinic at CTS, as well as the social skills and community participation programs.

Alex works in a collaborative, family inclusive, transparent model, providing support to children, their families, and systems. Alex’s therapeutic approach primarily involves Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and behavioural intervention, drawing on additional therapies such as mindfulness-based therapies where appropriate. All therapeutic interventions are collaborative and evidence-based, tailored to the needs of individual clients and their families.

Alex holds a Master of Psychology (Clinical Psychology), Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) (Honours) and a Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology). Alex has experience in clinical research and has published both of her theses completed during Masters and Honours study. Alex is registered as a Clinical Psychology Registrar with the Psychology Board of Australia.

Sally is a registered Psychologist (MAPS) who has experience working with children, adolescents and adults in the disability sector, educational setting and private practice. Since having completed a Master of Psychology (Counselling) degree at Monash University, Sally has worked with clients presenting with a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, self-harm, sleep problems, perfectionism, social skills, attachment, educational stress, grief and behavioural management. Having a keen interest in Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sally has recently joined the Autism assessment team at CTS.

Sally has a casual and personable style which combines warmth and an emphasis on placing the client at the centre of treatment. Whilst working collaboratively with colleagues across disciplines, she uses an eclectic approach in tailoring techniques to the personal needs of her clients. Sally takes a deep interest in helping educate and assist parents/carers to increase their own confidence and ability to support their child.

I work one on one, and alongside the CTS team to support children and adolescents, utilising various forms of therapy. My experience includes working in various schools as a Wellbeing Officer, supporting students, staff and families as well as private practice. Prior to this I worked in the Disability field as a Support Worker.

I offer therapeutic counselling, as well as social skills training, emotion regulation strategies, managing anxiety and anger or any other type of support related to the young person’s mental health and wellbeing. I can also offer support to the family, in the form of behavioural support and coping skills.

If considering a referral, my specialty areas include: Adolescents, anxiety, depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, relationships, social skills development, grief and loss, anger management, LGBTIQ+ and trauma.

Amanda completed her Bachelor of Health Science (Occupational Therapy) at Charles Sturt University, Albury. Amanda has over 15 years’ experience working as a paediatric occupational therapist, working within not for profit organisations, state government, and private practice. Amanda is currently completing post-graduate qualifications in Sensory Integration and balances both a clinical caseload and the OT team leader role at CTS.

Amanda has a keen interest in early childhood development, sensory processing, sensory eating challenges,  ASD and related social and emotional difficulties. She works closely and collaboratively with therapists across disciplines to provide a holistic approach for families.

Larissa completed her Bachelor of Health Science (Occupational Therapy) at Deakin University, Melbourne. Larissa has gained extensive experience in paediatric and adult neurological rehabilitation over the past 25 years, in the USA and Australia.

She has further training in upper limb rehabilitation, myofascial release, craniosacral therapy and assistive technology for complex needs clients. She has also completed research with Deakin University to improve access to technology, and the use of Saeboflex in upper limb retraining.

Larissa is passionate about working with children with neurological disorders and researching and prescribing equipment to optimise function and independence for all abilities.

Tess completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at La Trobe University, Melbourne. Tess has over 11 years’ experience as a paediatric occupational therapist working in early intervention and school age services. She has worked for not-for-profit organisations and private practices both within Victoria and interstate and held senior and leadership roles within these workplaces.

She has worked with children that have a wide range of diagnoses and needs. She uses a strength based and family centred approach within her practice and supports families using both direct therapy and family coaching to achieve success.

Tess has undertaken a range of professional development within Australia and carries skills in these areas:

• Best Practice in Autism
• Social Thinking
• Emotional Regulation
• Mealtime Management, including Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS)
• Approach to mealtimes
• Sensory Processing
• Picture Exchange Communication System Level 1 Training
• Play
• Key Word Signing
• Motor skill development
• Daily living skills development including toileting, dressing and sleep.Tess is part of the Autism Assessment Team at CTS. She is also trained in and facilitates the Secret Agent Society program.

Teri completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Deakin University, Geelong. She has over 10 years’ experience working in a range of paediatric settings including Special Education, NDIS and Early Childhood Intervention. Teri has a strong interest in sensory processing, social-emotional development, play and emotional regulation. Teri has completed an Advanced Certificate in DIR/Floortime, a developmental approach which supports children’s social-emotional growth through playful interactions, meaningful relationships and understanding and celebrating individual differences. She uses a compassionate, relationship-focussed, and strength-based approach in supporting children and their families to reach their full potential.

Belinda has over 15 years of experience as a paediatric Occupational Therapist. She has worked in a variety of different settings including Early Intervention Services, The Royal Children’s Hospital and paediatric Hand Therapy. Belinda also spent time working in the UK in specialist Autism schools.

Belinda is passionate about working closely with families and supporting children within a family centred approach. She has extensive experience working with infants and children with a range of developmental delays, neurodevelopmental disorders such as ASD and ADHD, Cerebral Palsy and other neurological conditions. Belinda has a strong interest in, upper limb difference, sensory processing, fussy eaters and social and emotional difficulties.

Carly completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy with Distinction at Deakin University. Carly has previously worked as an Allied Health Assistant at Children’s Therapy Services, implementing multidisciplinary therapy sessions aimed at working towards achieving children’s and their families goals.

Carly has experience supporting individuals with developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy and neurodiverse children.

Carly is passionate about empowering families, and supporting children to increase their confidence and achieve their goals.

Madelaine has worked in a variety of paediatric settings since graduating in 2011 from La Trobe University with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Hons). She has enjoyed working with children, educators and families in special developmental schools, early childhood intervention settings and not for profit community organisations. Madelaine has also provided supervision to early career Occupational Therapists, and enjoys providing clinical support and education to OT students on university paediatric placements.

Madelaine provides developmental assessment and support for infants, toddlers and young children and works in collaboration with their families.  She is particularly interested in supporting early social-emotional development, play skills and supporting the parent/child relationship.

Madelaine is an accredited DIR/Floortime provider, is trained to administer the Bayley Scales of Infant Development (4^th edition), and has completed extensive training in infant development including the Newborn Behavioural Observations (NBO), and various trainings in the area of Infant Mental Health and relationship based developmentally supportive care.

Becky moved to Australia with her family 13 years ago, she trained as an Occupational Therapist in the United Kingdom, qualifying in 1992. Having worked in a variety of settings over the years including, hospital, community, specialist education, and private practice she now has over 30 years of experience under her belt.  Becky specialised in the field of paediatrics and has had a keen interest in supporting families and children with complex needs, recognising the privilege of stepping in and out along the way.

During her time in Australia she continued to learn and expand her knowledge completing further education in the field of cerebral palsy and other associated neurological conditions. Becky developed  a keen interest in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) use,  specialised access, holistic and  family centred care.

Becky’s main areas of intervention over the last 10 years have been to continue to support children and families, particularly within the areas of, early  infant development,  early intervention , neurodevelopmental assessment and treatment , complex neurological conditions.  Becky is strongly committed to empower families to recognise they are the experts in their child and that life is about participation, fun and making connections in their community.

Becky has completed a range of further education that enables her to provide assessment and goal based therapy and interventions includes , Bobath Clinical framework, Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination, Bayleys Scales of infant and Toddler Development, Assisting Hand Assessment , Mini AHA , Hand Assessment of Infants, PRPP, Early Sensory Integration and Registration in infants, Complex Assistive Technology and Home Modifications supports.

Becky has had extensive experience in supporting the use of complex Assistive Technology and home modifications to enhance and support participation in the home and community.

Becky has a strong drive to promote active learning among her colleagues, you are never too old to learn,  as a therapist she is always amazed at the need to constantly evaluate and question our practice.  She loves working as part of an active and busy multidisciplinary team who spend time learning from each other, to enhance practice and better support families.   Becky also provides and supports Occupational Therapy student learning and engagement, through Deakin University and has over the last few years provided a range of clinical supervision and supports for junior and other Occupational Therapists.

Becky is a busy wife, mother and Nanna to 3 grandbaby’s and has a keen interest in her garden and home renovations, she has loved being an OT for over 30 years and hopes to continue to broaden her knowledge  and learn from all these life experiences.

Nicole completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at Deakin University.  She is currently completing her PhD with Monash University where she is researching the impact of interoception, emotional regulation and anxiety on children’s occupational participation.

Nicole’s skill base is best suited to assist neurodiverse children, or children with anxiety or depression, developmental delays, sensory processing difficulties, eating challenges, or social and emotional difficulties.

Nicole is passionate about assisting children and their families achieve their goals, and she enjoys using a strengths based approach to empower her clients to do this.

Genevieve completed a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Deakin University. She has experience working in paediatric settings including private practice, NDIS and specialist schools. Genevieve has a passion for supporting the development of play, social-emotional and daily living skills. She enjoys taking time to build therapeutic relationships with children and their families.

Jennie obtained her Bachelor of Speech Pathology at LaTrobe University, Melbourne.  She has over twenty years’ experience as a paediatric speech pathologist.  Jen has worked in Metro and regional Victoria, Western Australia, England, Scotland and Wales.  She has held leadership roles in her positions in health services, schools, and private practice.

Jen currently balances a clinical caseload and SP team leader role at CTS.  In keeping with the working culture of CTS, she works collaboratively with other therapists across and within disciplines, as well as across other services.  Jen has a special interest in working with pre-school and school aged children with speech, language and social communication difficulties.  She has been actively involved in the development and provision of the ASD assessment clinic at CTS, and in the development and facilitation of the Social Skills and Community Participation Program which has commenced in 2021.

Kate has a Bachelor of Education (Primary, Hons) and a Master of Speech Pathology, both from the University of Melbourne. She has over 10 years’ experience working with children and young people in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals and community settings.

Kate’s interest areas include early speech and language development, infant and childhood feeding, swallowing disorders and voice disorders. She works with a wide variety of children and families from birth to 12 years, including children with complex neurological conditions.

She has completed a range of professional development activities including SOFFI (Supporting Oral Feeding in Fragile Infants) accreditation and Hanen It Takes Two To Talk accreditation. Kate also worked with Kerry Britt (Children’s Therapy Services Physiotherapist) on the Pearson Australia standardisation project for the Bayley Scales of Infant Development (4th Edition) and completed accreditation in the use of this assessment tool.
As well as working at Children’s Therapy Services, Kate works at the Werribee Mercy Hospital and the Royal Children’s Hospital. She particularly enjoys working in multi-disciplinary team environments, collaborating with families and other professionals (Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Psychologists and Dietitians) to provide a holistic service.

Heidi completed her Bachelor of Teaching at Deakin University in Geelong and has over 20 years of experience in education.  Recently, she earned a Post Graduate Certificate in Specialist Inclusive Education and plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Disability.  Heidi has taught in both state and independent schools, as well as kindergartens, and in recent years has focused on Learning Support and Inclusion.  She has extensive experience supporting students and their families throughout their educational journey.  

As a Key Worker, Heidi collaborates closely with families and Allied Health Professionals to coordinate services for children with additional needs.  In her role as an Early Childhood Intervention professional, she can be the primary contact for families adjusting to life with a child with a disability or developmental delay.  As an Educator, Heidi promotes inclusion and helps address barriers faced by the child or family.  She advocates for the child and family, working to empower them to advocate for themselves.  Heidi is able to assess the child’s environment, assist with goal setting for behavioural and learning goals, and works with the child and family to achieve these goals. 

Shellie is an Accredited Practicing Dietitian who specialises in paediatric nutrition. She takes a family-based approach, and considers the whole family while addressing the individual needs of each child.

Shellie has a particular interest in supporting children with feeding difficulties, and helping families manage growth and nutritional challenges that result from feeding difficulties. Whatever the cause, she has the expertise to support your child’s nutrition. She also has wide range of experience in other areas, such as restricted diets, nutritional deficiencies, gastrointestinal issues, and food allergies and intolerances.

Shellie recognises that feeding difficulties are complex and multi-faceted, and advocates for using a multi-disciplinary approach to provide the best care. She works closely with other specialists to achieve the best possible outcomes for your child.

Reducing stress around mealtimes is a priority, and this can be achieved by offering practical, evidence-based strategies that incorporate everyday foods into sustainable nutrition goals – no meal plans!

Shellie recognises the importance of enjoying food to your family’s quality of life, and aims to cultivate a healthy relationship with food and mealtimes, without unnecessary restrictions or limitations on particular food groups.

Hannah has over 6 years’ experience working with children and their families in a variety of settings and roles, including as an individual and group support worker, Kinder Inclusion Support assistant, and in Family Healthcare Support with the Royal Children’s Hospital. Hannah aims to bring the learnings and experience from these roles, into her work as an allied health assistant with Children’s Therapy Services. She loves the opportunity to work with children and their families, alongside their therapists, to achieve their goals in a fun and supportive way

Kate completed a Bachelor of Speech Pathology in 2014. She is not currently practising as a Speechie but has used her knowledge and skills working in the disability support sector with both adults and children. Kate has joined CTS in 2022 and is excited to be working alongside children and their families as an Allied Health Assistant.

Steph has a background in physio, achieving a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (with distinction) through Charles Sturt University in 2015. Steph is not currently practising in a physio role, though loves to use her insights and experience in her role as an allied health assistant at Children’s Therapy Services. She also works in disability support with children. Steph has a wide range of interests and experience, and particularly likes to bring fun ideas from her time teaching and training in circus. She loves to encourage kids to explore and expand their skills and confidence in movement and social connection.

Melanie has over twenty years working within the disability sector in both Canada and Australia. Working with various individuals, across age groups and ability levels within both the community sector and a therapeutic environment. Melanie is most passionate about connecting people with their community, helping them to achieve an active lifestyle and helping to enhance their life quality through sport and recreation. Melanie holds a bachelors in Recreational Therapy and prior to moving to Australia focused a lot of her practice on aquatic therapy. Melanie is currently working as a disability support worker as well as an AHA. Melanie is excited to have the opportunity to support families and children at CTS. 

Georgie is currently studying a bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery at La Trobe University. She has returned from France working as an Au Pair, and has experience working as a Peer Mentor in the disability sector. Georgie thoroughly enjoys collaborating with other health professionals to ensure a high-level of multi-disciplinary care. Georgie strives to create a safe, welcoming and supportive environment for children and their families. She is passionate about working towards children’s goals, and cherishes the opportunity to be involved with and witness their progress.

Julie-Ann has worked in Paediatric therapy environment for 10 years. Having her own child with special needs she has an understanding and empathy with families attending our clinic.

Julie-Ann has extensive experience and knowledge in NDIS processes and requirements, having been involved with NDIS processes and claiming since the NDIS trial began in the Barwon Region.

Her happy and helpful nature ensures all families attending the clinic, whether it be their first time or have been coming for long time, are comfortable and makes it a positive experience for all.

Shannon joined CTS in 2022 after working in professional services for over 20 years. Having two children, she had seen the need for paediatric therapies in the community and wanted to be part of an organisation that helps children grow and thrive.

Shannon loves seeing the smiling faces of all the beautiful children as they come through the clinic and is proud to help families in any way she can through her role at CTS.

Coming soon.

Coming soon.