Meet The Team - Hope Kids Occupational Therapy

Jane Chan

Jane is an experienced Paediatric Occupational Therapist with over 12 years of experience supporting children and families across Hong Kong and Australia. Since graduating with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from Deakin University in 2014, Jane has worked across a variety of settings including special schools, mainstream schools, community services and private practice.

Jane has extensive experience supporting children with sensory processing difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, global developmental delays, Down syndrome, handwriting difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. She is passionate about helping children build emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills, independence in self-care tasks and positive mental health outcomes through meaningful and engaging therapy.

As a clinician and team leader, Jane values building strong therapeutic relationships with children and families and believes collaboration is key to achieving meaningful outcomes. She adopts a family-centred and strengths-based approach, tailoring therapy to each child’s individual needs, interests and goals while supporting participation across home, school and community environments.

Jane is fluent in English, Cantonese and Mandarin, allowing her to support families from diverse cultural backgrounds. Outside of work, Jane enjoys archery, volleyball, baking and spending time with friends. Jane is currently not available to see new clients at this time.

Bridget L’Huillier

Bridget is a dedicated Occupational Therapist who graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from the Australian Catholic University (ACU). She is deeply passionate about supporting children and families, with a particular interest in paediatric practice and early developmental intervention.

Bridget has experience working within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), where she has supported children with a range of developmental and functional needs including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, Down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. Her clinical experience includes supporting children with emotional and social regulation, sensory processing and integration, fine motor development, school readiness, social skills, mental health and the development of self-care and daily living skills. She takes a holistic and strengths-based approach to therapy, recognising the unique needs of each child and family and working collaboratively to achieve meaningful and achievable goals.

Bridget is committed to empowering children to build independence, confidence and practical skills that enhance their participation in everyday life, whether at home, school or in the community. She values family-centred practice and believes in partnering closely with parents, caregivers and other professionals to ensure consistent and supportive outcomes for each child.

Outside of her clinical work, Bridget leads an active and social lifestyle. She enjoys playing tennis, walking and running and spending quality time with family and friends. She also has a keen interest in discovering new cafés and restaurants. Bridget brings her enthusiasm, creativity and energy into her therapy sessions, creating engaging, playful and child-centred interventions that motivate children to learn and grow in a fun and supportive environment.

Laura Salomons

Laura holds a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from Australian Catholic University. She brings a wealth of clinical experience in assisting individuals with disabilities, specialising in community occupational therapy services for NDIS, TAC and AgedCare participants. Laura’s professional background includes extensive work as a disability support worker, primarily focusing on children with physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities and a range of developmental needs.

Laura has experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, Down syndrome, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. She is passionate about helping children build emotional and social regulation skills, school readiness skills, social skills, independence in daily living and positive mental health outcomes through engaging and individualised therapy supports.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Laura finds joy in family time and engaging in various craft activities like embroidery, crochet and macrame. She also enjoys playing the ukulele and camping with her husband and dog. Actively participating in her local church community, Laura serves as a dedicated youth leader each week.

Driven by her passion for facilitating children’s development, Laura is committed to collaborating closely with families to help children realise their fullest potential. She values creating meaningful and supportive relationships with children and families and enjoys helping children grow in confidence, participation and everyday functioning across home, school and community environments.

Cherry Tang

Cherry graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours). She is passionate about supporting children and their families and believes that every child has their own unique strengths and unlimited potential to shine.

Cherry has experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. She brings experience in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including DIR Floortime and Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI). She also supports children with emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and mental health needs. Cherry believes that children learn best when therapy is fun, playful and meaningful, allowing them to develop new skills and build confidence.

Cherry particularly enjoys providing sensory integration intervention, believing that regulation is the foundation for learning, participation and daily functioning. She is passionate about helping children better understand and respond to the sensory information around them, allowing them to engage more confidently and successfully in everyday activities. She also strongly values a family-centred and multidisciplinary approach to therapy. She believes that supporting the whole family is an important part of helping children thrive and that meaningful progress happens when families and other professionals work collaboratively toward shared goals. Her aim is to support children’s participation, independence and confidence across all aspects of daily life at home, school and within the community.

Cherry is fluent in English, Cantonese and Mandarin, allowing her to support families from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Outside of work, Cherry enjoys travelling with loved ones, singing, watching Netflix, attending pilates classes and exploring Melbourne’s brunch places.

Kiara Cursio

Kiara is a dedicated Paediatric Occupational Therapist and Assistant Team Leader who is passionate about helping children reach their full potential and navigate the world with confidence. She completed a Bachelor of Applied Science and Master of Occupational Therapy at La Trobe University and is committed to creating a nurturing and supportive environment where children feel empowered to overcome challenges, celebrate their strengths and thrive in everyday life.

Kiara has experience supporting children with sensory processing difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions. She enjoys helping children build emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills, confidence and positive mental health outcomes through meaningful and engaging therapy tailored to each child’s individual goals.

Kiara is a strong advocate for a multidisciplinary and family-centred approach, believing collaboration between professionals and family members is essential in supporting children to achieve meaningful outcomes. By working closely with families, educators and allied health professionals, she strives to ensure therapy is integrated seamlessly into all aspects of a child’s life across home, school and community settings.

In addition to her clinical role, Kiara also serves as an Assistant Team Leader, where she supports and mentors fellow occupational therapists. She is passionate about fostering a positive team culture, sharing knowledge and building confidence in others as they continue to grow in their therapy skills. Her leadership style is grounded in collaboration, encouragement and a commitment to clinical excellence.

Clinically, Kiara brings experience in a range of therapeutic approaches including DIR Floortime and Therapeutic Listening. She also has a special interest in responsive feeding and has completed clinical training in this area, allowing her to support children and families with feeding challenges using a responsive and relationship-based approach tailored to each child’s individual needs.

Additionally, Kiara is bilingual and offers therapy sessions in both English and Italian, allowing her to connect with a wider range of families. With her professional expertise, leadership and compassionate approach, she remains committed to empowering children to achieve their fullest potential across all areas of life and providing families with the support they need to help their children thrive. Currently Kiara is not available to see new clients.

Annee Janse van Vuuren

Anneé graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from the University of the Free State in South Africa in 2017. She gained over four years of experience working in South African government hospitals, supporting inpatients with rehabilitation as well as children and adults in outpatient clinics with diverse diagnoses. Working in rural South Africa taught Anneé to be adaptable, resourceful and creative in using the environments and resources available to support her clients. She values working within a multidisciplinary team and collaborating to achieve the best outcomes for those she supports.

After immigrating to Australia in 2023, Anneé has gained extensive experience working within the NDIS, supporting children and their families in schools, homes and community settings. Her experience includes, but is not limited to, working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. She also supports children with emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and mental health needs. Anneé has skills in assistive technology prescription and writing functional capacity assessments.

Anneé is passionate about supporting children to develop motor milestones, emotional regulation and social skills so that they can confidently participate in activities they find meaningful. She focuses on building strong rapport and understanding with each child she works with, then collaborating closely with families to support children in achieving their individual goals. Anneé adopts a calm, supportive and neuro-affirming approach, meeting children where they are at and helping them to build confidence, independence and belief in themselves across home, school and community environments.

Outside of work, Anneé enjoys spending time with her friends and family and being outdoors in nature. She loves exploring new environments through hiking and camping and also finds running a great way to recharge and stay active. She is currently away on maternity leave and can’t wait to rejoin the team at the end of the year.

Abigail Baker

Abi (Abigail) is a dedicated Paediatric Occupational Therapist who is passionate about supporting neurodiverse children to thrive as their authentic selves. She graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from Australian Catholic University and brings a wealth of experience from her work across Monash Children’s Hospital and the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Throughout her career, Abi has supported children across intensive care, trauma, acute and rehabilitation settings, developing strong clinical skills in neurology, oncology, orthopaedics and other complex medical and developmental presentations. Her hospital experience has given her a deep understanding of how medical, sensory and developmental needs interact, and how to best support children and families navigating challenging healthcare environments.

Abi has extensive experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. She provides compassionate, tailored support to help each child feel safe, understood and empowered. Abi also supports children with emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and mental health needs. She is skilled in trauma-informed and evidence-based care, ensuring therapy is grounded in current research while being responsive to each child’s unique strengths, interests and goals.

Her approach to therapy is goal-directed, play-based and strengths-focused, creating opportunities for children to build confidence, emotional regulation and independence in their everyday lives. Abi works closely with families, schools and support networks to ensure therapy is holistic and seamlessly integrated across home, school and community environments.

Outside of work, Abi enjoys pilates, musical theatre, exploring new cafes, travelling and spending quality time with her loved ones. With her warm, empathetic nature and strong professional expertise, Abi is committed to helping every child embrace who they are, equipping them with the tools and confidence to be the best they can be.

San Yong

San is a passionate Occupational Therapist who loves working alongside children and their families to develop individualised goals that support each child’s growth, confidence and participation in everyday life. She completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at Monash University and has experience supporting children across a variety of developmental needs.

San is experienced in providing intervention for sensory processing needs, sensory motor development, self-care training, handwriting, school readiness, social skills and emotional regulation. She also supports children with mental health needs and enjoys helping children build independence across home, school and community environments.

Known for her creative and engaging therapy style, San tailors each session to suit the unique strengths and interests of the individual child. She adopts an intuitive, playful and child-led approach to therapy, helping to build strong and long-lasting therapeutic relationships with children and families.

Prior to commencing her OT career, San gained valuable experience working as a disability support worker and therapy assistant with children presenting with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, sensory processing difficulties, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions. San is able to communicate fluently in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay.

Caitlyn Kent

Caitlyn holds a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from Deakin University and is a passionate paediatric Occupational Therapist specialising in telehealth service delivery. She has extensive experience supporting children and families within the NDIS framework, providing engaging, evidence-based therapy and working collaboratively with parents, educators and support teams to achieve meaningful outcomes. With a strong background in remote service delivery, Caitlyn is skilled in adapting interventions to suit each child’s home environment while building strong connections with families.

Caitlyn’s professional experience spans both telehealth and clinic-based settings, as well as prior roles as a therapy assistant and disability support worker. She has developed strong skills in family coaching, assessment and goal-directed intervention, with experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. Caitlyn has a particular interest in supporting children’s emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills development and mental health. She is known for her neuro-affirming, strengths-based approach and her ability to build rapport quickly with children and families in an online environment.

Outside of her professional life, Caitlyn loves travelling and has spent time living and working overseas. She enjoys surfing, yoga, staying active outdoors and spending time in nature, as well as connecting with animals and embracing an adventurous lifestyle.

Driven by her passion for supporting children’s development, Caitlyn is committed to empowering children and their families to build confidence, independence and participation in everyday life. She thrives in delivering fun, creative and individualised therapy that supports each child to reach their full potential across home, school and community settings.

Jin Xin Lee

Jin Xin graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours). Jin Xin has specialised interest in Paediatrics and is passionate about working with children who present with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. Jin Xin is experienced in providing intervention for gross and fine motor skills, emotional and social regulation, sensory issues, handwriting, school readiness, social skills and mental health support.

Jin Xin is a dedicated clinician who values building rapport with children and their families using a strengths-based and family-centred approach. With these approaches, she strives to ensure children are working through their individual goals in a fun, playful and motivating environment. She is passionate about helping children build confidence, independence and participation in everyday activities across home, school and community settings.

Prior to commencing her OT career, Jin Xin worked as a private tutor where she provided group and one-on-one tutoring of various subjects including Mathematics, English and Mandarin for children aged 4 to 12 years old. Jin Xin is multilingual and is able to communicate fluently in English, Mandarin and Malay.

Tara Xuereb

Tara holds a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from Australian Catholic University. She brings a wealth of experience in supporting individuals with disabilities, having previously specialised in community-based occupational therapy services for NDIS participants across paediatric, mental health and adult populations. Outside of work, Tara enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, keeping active at the gym and exploring local cafés.

Tara is passionate about helping children reach their full potential and participate meaningfully in everyday life. She is dedicated to fostering each child’s growth, independence and confidence, working collaboratively with families to create positive and lasting change. With a warm, compassionate and client-centred approach, Tara strives to make every session engaging and empowering for both children and their families. Her personal mission at Hope Kids OT is to empower children and their families to thrive both within and beyond the therapy room by building confidence and developing lifelong skills.

Tara has a particular passion for supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. She enjoys helping children develop emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and positive mental health outcomes, while building essential skills to flourish in their daily lives. Tara values creating therapy that is strengths-based, playful and tailored to each child’s individual needs across home, school and community environments.

Angelee Tan

Angelee graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) from Monash University and is passionate about supporting children to build confidence and thrive in their everyday lives.

Prior to becoming an Occupational Therapist, Angelee worked as an Allied Health Assistant and an Outside Hours School Care Educator, where she developed strong skills in supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. She has gained valuable experience supporting both children and adults across a range of settings, including primary schools, sub-acute and community-based practice.

Angelee is passionate about forming genuine connections with children and families and empowering clients to achieve their goals using a strengths-based approach. She has experience supporting children with emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and mental health needs. Angelee also has experience running therapeutic groups for primary and secondary school-aged children, fostering social connection, confidence and participation in everyday activities across home, school and community settings.

Fluent in both English and Hokkien, Angelee enjoys connecting with families from diverse backgrounds. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, travelling, baking sweet treats or watching musical theatre.

Abby Hurleston

Abby graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) from Monash University. Abby is passionate about improving the lives of children and their families through the use of a strengths-based approach to address areas such as activities of daily living, sensory regulation, fine and gross motor skills, social skills, school readiness and motor planning. Abby has previous clinical experience working with children with a range of different diagnoses including but not limited to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. She also supports children with emotional and social regulation and mental health needs.

Abby has a natural ability to build rapport and enjoys using her creativity to ensure she is providing a fun environment to suit the individual needs and abilities of all her clients. She is passionate about helping children build confidence, independence and participation in everyday activities across home, school and community settings while working collaboratively with families to achieve meaningful goals.

Outside of work, Abby is an avid soccer player and participates in state level competitions. Abby also actively participated in volunteering work such as The Dining Room Mission in Croydon where she prepared and served meals to the disadvantaged at the local Church.

Grace Lam

Grace is an energetic and dedicated Occupational Therapist who brings both professionalism and passion to her work with children and families. She graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy (Honours) and cultivated a special interest in supporting neurodivergent children and young people.

She believes every child has unique strengths and potential, and she is deeply committed to creating safe, engaging and meaningful opportunities for them to thrive. Before joining Hope Kids OT, Grace gained valuable clinical experience in primary schools, sub-acute hospitals and community-based practice, working with both children and adults living with diverse disabilities. Her career journey has been shaped by hands-on experiences as an Assistant in the Kindergarten Inclusion Support Program, an Allied Health Assistant and a Disability Support Worker.

Grace has experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. She is passionate about helping children develop emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and positive mental health outcomes. Grace takes a strengths-based and family-centred approach to therapy, supporting children to build confidence, independence and participation in everyday life across home, school and community environments.

Grace’s fluency in English, Mandarin and Cantonese enables her to connect with families from culturally diverse backgrounds, making her care inclusive and accessible. Outside of her professional role, Grace finds joy in spending quality time with her families and friends, travelling and discovering new places, immersing herself in the beauty of nature and enjoying music as a way to recharge and stay inspired.

Bebe Liang

Bebe is a dedicated and proactive occupational therapist with a strong passion for paediatrics. She graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) and is committed to empowering children to reach their fullest potential in their daily lives.

Bebe values collaboration with families and practices with a family-centred approach, tailoring therapy to suit each child’s unique needs and interests. Before becoming an occupational therapist, Bebe gained valuable experience as an Allied Health Assistant and Disability Support Worker, where she developed strong skills in supporting children with diverse needs and building meaningful connections with families.

Through her clinical and support work, Bebe has worked alongside children presenting with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. She enjoys supporting children in areas including emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills, mental health and participation in everyday routines. Bebe is passionate about delivering engaging and strengths-based therapy that helps children build confidence, independence and meaningful participation across home, school and community environments.

Bebe is multilingual and communicates fluently in English, Cantonese and Mandarin, allowing her to connect with families from diverse cultural backgrounds. Outside of work, she enjoys travelling, going to the gym and spending quality time with her family and friends.

Aiggie Yu

Aiggie is a dedicated Occupational Therapist with meaningful clinical experience and a strong commitment to evidence-based, child-centred care. She has developed a solid foundation in supporting children to build independence and participate meaningfully in their daily lives across home, school and community settings.

Aiggie works closely with families, caregivers and multidisciplinary teams to design holistic and personalised therapy plans. She has supported children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, sensory processing difficulties and a range of genetic conditions. Her clinical interests include fine and gross motor development, emotional and social regulation, coordination, school readiness, social skills and supporting positive mental health outcomes. Her approach is warm, collaborative and play-based and ensures each child feels safe, engaged and supported while working towards their goals.

Fluent in English, Cantonese and Mandarin, Aiggie is passionate about supporting culturally diverse families and ensuring clear, compassionate communication at every step. She believes in empowering parents with practical strategies and confidence so they feel supported both during and beyond therapy sessions.

Known for her gentle and encouraging nature, Aiggie creates a nurturing environment where children can thrive and families can feel confident in their child’s care. Outside of her clinical work, her love for baking and drawing inspires the creative and engaging activities she incorporates into her sessions.

Zachary Gates

Zac graduated from La Trobe University with a Master of Occupational Therapy and a Bachelor of Applied Science. He is passionate about working alongside children and families to help children build confidence, independence and meaningful participation in everyday life. Zac finds it incredibly rewarding supporting children to achieve their goals and develop greater confidence in activities of daily living across home, school and community environments.

With over 5 years of experience working in paediatric occupational therapy, Zac has led school readiness and social skills groups as well as providing individualised therapy sessions tailored to client-centred and NDIS goals. Throughout his career, he has supported children presenting with sensory processing difficulties, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, developmental delays, global developmental delays and a range of genetic conditions. Zac particularly enjoys helping children strengthen executive functioning, emotional and social regulation, gross and fine motor development and positive mental health through engaging and practical therapy approaches.

Known for his ability to quickly build rapport, Zac creates sessions that are supportive, motivating and fun. He values forming genuine connections with children and families and believes strong therapeutic relationships are key to achieving meaningful outcomes.

In his free time, Zac is involved as a young adults leader in his local church and attends regularly with friends and family. Zac loves his sport, mostly cricket, footy and basketball. Described as a devoted cricket player, Zac loves to play for his club Croydon North on Saturday afternoons.

Maeve Timms

Maeve graduated with her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from Australian Catholic University. Before starting her OT career, Maeve worked as an Allied Health Assistant with teenagers and adults with intellectual disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and neuromuscular disabilities including Cerebral Palsy and Muscular Dystrophy. She also has previous experience working within NDIS and My Aged Care community-based occupational therapy services, focusing on increasing safety, participation and independence in meaningful daily activities for her clients.

Maeve is a compassionate therapist dedicated to providing holistic and family-centred care. She enjoys using creativity to tailor individualised interventions that support children to progress towards their goals in a fun and engaging way. Maeve has experience supporting children with ADHD, global developmental delays, sensory processing difficulties, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions. She is passionate about helping children build emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills, confidence and positive mental health outcomes while developing functional skills for everyday life.

Maeve values creating a supportive environment where children and families feel understood, empowered and encouraged throughout their therapy journey. She takes a strengths-based approach and enjoys collaborating closely with families, educators and other professionals to support meaningful participation across home, school and community settings.

Outside of work, Maeve enjoys doing her own nail art, which you might notice during sessions, as well as arts and crafts, going to galleries, enjoying live music and baking.

Jordan Lew

Jordan is a dedicated Occupational Therapist with a passion for working with children. She graduated from Monash University and has a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent children, as well as those with developmental delays, sensory processing challenges, emotional and social difficulties and mental health needs. Jordan is committed to delivering individualised therapy and collaborating closely with families to create meaningful and lasting positive outcomes.

Through her experience across allied health and disability support settings, Jordan has worked alongside children with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, global developmental delays, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions. She enjoys supporting children to develop school readiness, social skills, emotional regulation and independence in everyday activities through engaging and strengths-based therapy approaches.

Before becoming an Occupational Therapist, Jordan gained valuable experience as an Allied Health Assistant and Disability Support Worker, where she developed strong skills in implementing therapy interventions and fostering meaningful connections with clients and their families. Additionally, her background as an Endorsed Enrolled Nurse has further enriched her ability to provide compassionate and client-centred care.

Outside of work, Jordan enjoys spending time with family and friends, attending Pilates classes and exploring Sunday markets.

Natasha Lin

Natasha graduated from the Australian Catholic University (ACU) with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy and is a passionate therapist known for her warm, friendly and bubbly nature. She is highly creative and skilled in producing engaging therapy resources to support children’s development beyond sessions.

Natasha takes pride in empowering parents through education and coaching, always striving for clear and effective communication. She confidently implements therapy concepts and adapts interventions to suit each child’s unique needs. Natasha values collaboration and prioritises getting to know children and their families, working together to set meaningful and tailored goals. Her approach is grounded in curiosity, motivation and self-awareness, with a strong emphasis on building therapeutic rapport and staying open-minded.

With experience supporting children across a wide range of ages and support needs, Natasha has worked with children presenting with sensory processing difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, global developmental delays, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions. She also supports children in areas including emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and mental health. Natasha practises with a neuro-affirming and client-centred philosophy, using creative and engaging approaches to help children build confidence, independence and participation in everyday life.

Before becoming a full-time occupational therapist, Natasha worked in various roles including an allied health assistant at The Royal Melbourne Hospital, retail and customer service and as a Therapy Assistant in private practice. She also has experience tutoring children in both one-on-one and group settings. These diverse experiences have equipped her with a rich set of skills and perspectives that enhance her therapeutic work.

Outside of work, Natasha enjoys learning Korean through TV shows and music and finds joy in crafting, like a true OT. She loves crocheting, playing the ukulele and singing. She also enjoys pilates and going for walks, aiming for two to three times a week. Natasha is fluent in English, conversational in Mandarin and is currently learning Korean. She can also understand some Malay and Punjabi.

Amy Cavenett

Amy graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) from Australian Catholic University, completing her thesis in the area of neurodevelopmental disability. She has several years of experience working within the NDIS framework and has developed a strong passion for paediatrics.

Across her clinical experience, Amy has supported children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, sensory processing difficulties, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions. She also works with children to strengthen emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and positive mental health outcomes through meaningful and engaging therapy interventions.

Amy adopts a neuro-affirming, strengths-based and client-centred approach to therapy. She is known for her warm, empathetic and calm nature, which helps children feel safe, confident and empowered to work towards their goals. Amy is a strong advocate for working collaboratively with families and caregivers, ensuring therapy goals are meaningful and aligned with each child’s developmental needs, participation and independence across home, school and community environments.

She has a special interest in sensory integration and emotional regulation and is committed to supporting children in building confidence, resilience and self-understanding in their everyday lives.

Outside of work, Amy enjoys playing netball and engaging in a variety of recreational activities that keep her energised and balanced.

Cassandra Lim

Cassandra (Cass) is a dedicated occupational therapist with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from Australian Catholic University. Passionate about fostering independence and improving quality of life, she brings experience working with individuals of all ages in hospital and community settings, including NDIS and Aged Care. With a strong foundation in therapeutic interventions, Cass is committed to empowering her clients to overcome challenges and achieve meaningful goals.

Driven by her passion for child development, Cass works closely with families to support children in reaching their full potential. She prioritises building strong connections and creating engaging, meaningful therapy experiences tailored to each child’s unique strengths and needs.

Cass has experience supporting children with ADHD, sensory processing difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions. She enjoys helping children build emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and confidence in everyday routines while also supporting positive mental health and participation across home, school and community settings.

Beyond her professional work, Cass enjoys expressing her creativity through music, embroidery and art, often incorporating these interests into her therapeutic approach. In her free time, Cass finds joy in playing instruments, stitching intricate designs and exploring various artistic expressions.

Minsha Mathew

Minsha is a dedicated paediatric occupational therapist with over nine years of extensive experience in the field. Her professional journey has taken her through dynamic paediatric healthcare landscapes in India, Dubai and Australia, where she has supported children with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, sensory processing difficulties, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions, including rare genetic disorders. Graduating with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy, she has refined her skills and deepened her commitment to improving the lives of children through early childhood intervention and activities of daily living training.

Minsha is passionate about empowering children to excel in their daily routines and developmental milestones. She has experience supporting emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills, mental health, sensory processing, gross motor development and handwriting skills through engaging and child-centred interventions. In addition, Minsha is also a certified play therapist who recognises the fundamental role of play in fostering confidence, participation, emotional wellbeing and cognitive development in children.

Her proficiency extends beyond language barriers, as she is fluent in Malayalam, Tamil and English. This linguistic versatility enables her to establish effective communication and build rapport with diverse families and communities.

Minsha remains steadfast in her mission to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and their families through her compassionate and skillful occupational therapy practice across home, school and community environments.

Dhiviya Jayabalan

Dhiviya is a passionate professional who graduated with a Bachelor of Psychology and a Master of Occupational Therapy from Curtin University in Perth. Recently relocating to Melbourne from Perth, she is excited to explore the city’s vibrant cafe culture and discover its hidden gems. In her free time, Dhiviya enjoys reading, watching movies and indulging in her love for trying new cafes as she settles into her new home.

Dhiviya has previous experience working in a paediatric acute inpatient mental health unit, where she worked closely with a multidisciplinary team in supporting both group programs and one-on-one sessions to deliver comprehensive care. Through her experience, she has supported children with emotional and social regulation difficulties, mental health challenges, sensory processing difficulties, developmental delays, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, global developmental delays, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions. Dhiviya also enjoys supporting children to build school readiness, social skills and confidence in their everyday activities.

Dhiviya values building strong rapport with clients and their families, recognising the importance of a trusted therapeutic relationship in achieving positive outcomes. Passionate about supporting children in maximising their potential and engaging in meaningful activities, Dhiviya is dedicated to helping each child thrive by fostering growth, independence and participation across home, school and community environments. With a compassionate and client-centred approach, Dhiviya strives to make a positive impact on the lives of the children and families she works with.

Albert Augustian

Albert Augustian is a passionate paediatric occupational therapist with over nine years of invaluable experience in this role. Armed with a Masters degree in Paediatric Occupational Therapy and a special interest in DIR Floortime, Albert is deeply passionate about supporting children with diverse developmental needs. His experience includes working with children with sensory processing difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions.

Albert has extensive experience supporting children with self-care training, emotional and social regulation, school readiness, handwriting, gross and fine motor development, social skills and positive mental health outcomes. His journey led him to Australia, where he brought his expertise to new horizons and continued supporting children and families within community and NDIS settings.

Prior to joining Hope Kids OT, Albert supported many families within the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). His compassionate approach and commitment to empowering children and their families make him a trusted advocate in the field of paediatric occupational therapy. Albert values building strong therapeutic relationships and creating engaging, child-centred interventions that support participation and independence across home, school and community environments.

Albert’s linguistic versatility extends beyond English. He is proficient in Malayalam, Tamil and Hindi, facilitating seamless communication with families from diverse backgrounds. Albert has a special interest in creating sensory environments for children, providing them with safe and calming spaces to explore, regulate and develop.

Catherine Luah

Catherine graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy with Honours. Before joining Hope Kids OT, Catherine gained specialised clinical experience in community practice and case management, supporting children, adults and families living with a wide range of disabilities across everyday settings.

Catherine is passionate about working alongside children with sensory processing difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, global developmental delays, Down syndrome, Dyspraxia, Dysgraphia and a range of genetic conditions. She enjoys supporting children in developing emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and confidence in their daily routines through meaningful and individualised therapy approaches.

Catherine endeavours to make positive contributions to the lives of others and empower children and families to reach their full potential. She values building strong therapeutic relationships and helping children increase their independence, participation and positive mental health outcomes across home, school and community environments.

In addition to English, Catherine is able to converse in Mandarin and Cantonese. In her free time, Catherine loves pilates, travelling and enjoying food with her friends and family.

Vienna Chu

Vienna is a highly skilled and compassionate occupational therapist with a strong foundation in both occupational therapy and counselling. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy (Honours) from Hong Kong Polytechnic University and a Master’s degree in Social Sciences in Counselling, equipping her with a well-rounded approach to client care.

With over 10 years of experience in Hong Kong and 1.5 years in Melbourne, Vienna has developed a diverse clinical skill set, supporting clients of all ages with a wide range of needs. Her expertise enables her to provide tailored interventions that empower children to thrive in their daily lives. Passionate about making a meaningful impact, Vienna is committed to helping young clients reach their full potential through evidence-based, client-centred therapy.

Briana Ryan

Briana is a bubbly and enthusiastic individual with a deep passion for working alongside children of all ages throughout their developmental journey. She graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy (Honours) and prides herself on her ability to think outside the box. Briana enjoys staying up-to-date with the latest cartoons, TV shows and trends that captivate the children she works with, allowing her to engage in meaningful conversations and build strong rapport with them.

Briana enjoys working with children in clinical and school settings and is committed to making therapy fun and engaging for each child she meets. She has experience supporting children with ADHD, sensory processing difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions. Briana is passionate about helping children develop emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and confidence in their daily lives while also supporting positive mental health and participation in meaningful activities.

When Briana is not working, she is often baking delicious sweets, travelling to new places and spending time with her family. Her strong connection to her own family has provided Briana with a deep appreciation for the pivotal role that family plays in a child’s growth and development. Briana is there alongside families, encouraging and celebrating any type of win that their child may achieve. Her personal mission at Hope Kids OT is to empower children and their families to thrive in life and help them build confidence in their abilities beyond the therapy room across home, school and community environments.

Fiona Leung

Fiona is an Occupational Therapist with experience working across a variety of settings including paediatrics, adult rehabilitation and geriatrics. She completed a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at Monash University and joined the Hope Kids OT team with a strong passion for paediatrics and sensory integration. Fiona is motivated to work closely with children, families and support networks to achieve meaningful and individualised goals that are important to each family.

Fiona enjoys supporting children of all ages and has experience working with children presenting with sensory processing difficulties, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), developmental delays, global developmental delays, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, learning difficulties, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions. She is passionate about helping children build emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and confidence in everyday activities through engaging and child-centred therapy approaches.

Prior to joining the team, Fiona supported children within community settings through assessments and early intervention services. She also facilitated Lego Groups designed to strengthen fine motor development, problem-solving abilities and social thinking skills in a fun and play-based environment. Before moving to Australia, Fiona worked as an assistant teacher in Hong Kong, tutoring English to children aged 4 to 6 years old.

Fiona values a family-centred and strengths-based approach and enjoys supporting children to increase their independence, participation and positive mental health outcomes across home, school and community environments. Fiona is multilingual and is able to communicate fluently in English, Cantonese and Mandarin.

Gillian Teo

Gillian is a highly experienced Occupational Therapist with more than 25 years of local and international experience working within the disability field. After graduating from La Trobe University, she has worked with both children and adults across the lifespan in a wide variety of settings including clinics, early childhood services, schools, homes and the broader community.

Throughout her career, Gillian has supported children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental delays, global developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, sensory processing difficulties, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions. She has extensive experience supporting emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills, learning enhancement, independence in daily living skills and positive mental health outcomes through practical and goal-driven therapy approaches.

Gillian enjoys working with the diversity of children and families and strongly values collaboration with parents, educators and other professionals to achieve meaningful outcomes for each child. She adopts a strengths-based and family-centred approach to therapy, helping children build confidence, participation and independence across home, school and community environments.

Gillian can communicate in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien, Hakka and Malay, allowing her to connect with families from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. Outside of OT, Gillian also teaches yoga and enjoys food, crime and legal dramas, superhero movies, travel and nature.

Gladys Wong

Gladys graduated from La Trobe University in 2015 with a Bachelor of Health Science and a Masters of Occupational Therapy Practice. With over 11 years of experience working in paediatrics, Gladys has always had a strong passion for supporting children to build confidence, independence and participation in everyday life.

She is experienced in working with children presenting with ADHD, emotional and behavioural challenges, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, global developmental delays, sensory processing difficulties, Down syndrome, Dyspraxia and a range of genetic conditions. Gladys particularly enjoys supporting children with gross motor skills, fine motor development, emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills, handwriting, self-care skills and positive mental health outcomes through engaging and child-centred therapy.

Gladys values building strong relationships with children and families and believes in working collaboratively to achieve meaningful goals across home, school and community settings. She is fluent in English, Cantonese and some Mandarin.

Outside of her work as a therapist, Gladys enjoys cooking, baking, travelling and spending time with friends and family. Gladys also actively volunteers at kids club in her church.

Joanna Iong

Joanna is an Occupational Therapist with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) from Monash University and has a keen interest in supporting children and teenagers across both private and community settings. Prior to joining Hope Kids OT, Joanna gained specialised experience working with paediatric participants in the community across a broad range of developmental and physical support needs.

Joanna has experience supporting children with intellectual disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, sensory processing difficulties, developmental delays, global developmental delays, Down syndrome and a range of genetic conditions. She particularly enjoys helping children develop emotional and social regulation, school readiness, social skills and independence in everyday activities while supporting positive mental health outcomes through engaging and family-centred therapy approaches.

Joanna is passionate about providing support and education to families, helping them access the resources and strategies needed to best support their child’s growth and participation. She values building strong therapeutic relationships and working collaboratively with families, educators and other professionals to achieve meaningful goals across home, school and community environments.

Outside of work, Joanna enjoys staying active by playing basketball, swimming and badminton. She is able to communicate fluently in English, Cantonese and Mandarin, allowing her to connect effectively with clients and families from diverse cultural backgrounds.

May Lee

May is our principal occupational therapist who graduated from Latrobe University with more than 17 years of clinical experience. Prior to moving to Melbourne, May has worked with clients recovering from acquired brain injuries, rehabilitation settings & paediatric practice in Singapore. Since then, May has continued to work extensively in paediatric private practice in Melbourne and has specialised clinical experience in providing intervention for children and adolescents with Sensory Processing Disorders, Dyspraxia and social-emotional challenges. May is also multilingual, being proficient and able to converse fluently in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay.

Beyond the clinical expertise, May is a passionate mentor and supervisor, shaping the next generation of paediatric occupational therapists. Her commitment to education and professional development has influenced countless therapists, ensuring that the highest standards of care are maintained.

Outside of the professional pursuits, May finds joy and inspiration in her own family. As the proud parent of a 9-year-old boy and a 4-year-old girl, she understands the challenges and joys of parenting firsthand, further deepening her empathy and insight into the needs of the children Hope Kids OT serves.

With May at the helm, Hope Kids OT offers a blend of clinical excellence, mentorship, cultural sensitivity and a deep understanding of the needs of children. The dedication to improving young lives shines through in every aspect of her work. May is currently not available to see new clients at this time.

Kristalle Lee

Kristalle has spent years in the dynamic role of an administrator, excelling in both operations and sales support. With a knack for organisation and a keen eye for detail, she has been instrumental in streamlining processes and ensuring the smooth functioning of the company.

Beyond the office, Kristalle thrives in the great outdoors and spending time with friends and family. She finds solace in the game of volleyball, where teamwork and strategy come together to create a winning combination. When not spiking volleyballs, she is often exploring the natural world, relishing in the beauty of nature, and savoring outdoor adventures.

Stephanie Dykes

Stephanie is currently studying a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science at Deakin University, where she is developing a strong foundation in human movement, health and performance. With a passion for helping others live healthier, more active lives, she plans to continue her studies with a Master of Occupational Therapy to make a meaningful impact in the allied health field.

Stephanie has hands-on experience working with children, having spent time at a summer camp in the United States, where she supported young people in recreational and developmental activities. This experience strengthened her communication skills, adaptability and enthusiasm for working in inclusive, supportive environments. Outside of her studies, Stephanie enjoys a balanced lifestyle that includes travelling, going to the gym, reading, and practising Pilates. She is passionate about holistic wellbeing and is dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their goals through movement, rehabilitation and support.

Sasha Lethbridge

Sasha is a dedicated and compassionate therapist who recently graduated from Deakin University with a Master’s degree in Child Play Therapy. She has a strong passion for working with children and families and brings a thoughtful, evidence-informed therapeutic approach to her practice. Sasha is committed to creating warm, safe and welcoming therapeutic environments where clients feel supported, understood and empowered.

With her background in play therapy, Sasha values developmentally appropriate, child-centred interventions and works collaboratively with families to support meaningful and lasting outcomes. She is deeply committed to promoting client wellbeing and thrives in intradisciplinary team settings, valuing shared knowledge, reflection, and holistic care.

Outside of her professional role, Sasha enjoys spending quality time with family and friends. She leads an active lifestyle and participates in a variety of activities including swimming, gym training, skiing and snowboarding, bouldering and scenic walking. Sasha also enjoys baking and cooking, and is an accomplished violinist who plays in her local orchestra.

Cassie Cardullo

Cassie is a dedicated Allied Health Assistant who is passionate about supporting children and neurodivergent individuals to reach their full potential and thrive in everyday life. She is currently completing her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Deakin University and is committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment where every child feels safe, celebrated and empowered to achieve their goals.

With a background in primary school teaching, managing a before and after school care and vacation care program, and experience in disability support work, Cassie brings a well-rounded understanding of child development, education and inclusive practice to her role. Her hands-on experience extends to volunteering at a special school and completing her OT placements in a hospital setting, giving her a broad appreciation of the environments and challenges, children and families navigate every day.

In her role at Hope Kids OT, Cassie works closely alongside the OT team, celebrating every achievement and building genuine relationships with families so they feel informed, included and supported throughout their child’s journey. Outside of work, she loves staying active, reading, travelling and spending quality time with her family, friends and new puppy, Nala!

Rachel Pan

Meet Rachel, a versatile professional who currently holds a vital position in the admin team. Rachel brings a unique blend of creativity and organisation to the team.

Outside the office, Rachel is an avid nature enthusiast. Hiking trails are Rachel’s second home, where the love for adventure meets the serenity of the great outdoors. Besides hiking, Rachel has a green thumb and finds solace in gardening, nurturing plants and creating a vibrant, natural sanctuary at home.At the heart of Rachel’s world is a beloved feline companion. She shares a deep bond with her cat Bobo, cherishing the endless moments of love and warmth that her furry baby brings into her life.

With a passion for marketing, a love for nature, and a heartwarming connection with her cat, Rachel embodies a rich tapestry of interests and experiences that make her a fascinating individual inside and outside the office.

Claudia Baxter

Claudia holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Melbourne and is currently pursuing her goal of becoming a registered occupational therapist. With a strong passion for helping others and a deep interest in human development and wellbeing, Claudia is committed to delivering compassionate, hands-on support that empowers individuals to thrive in their daily lives.

At Hope Kids OT, Claudia brings warmth, enthusiasm and a keen sense of observation to her role as a therapy assistant. She is especially motivated by the opportunity to work closely with children and families, supporting them on their unique developmental journeys.

In addition to her role at Hope Kids OT, Claudia works in marketing for a boutique jewellery brand, where she enjoys applying her creativity and attention to detail. She also serves as a dedicated support worker for an 11-year-old child, a role that further strengthens her skills in communication, patience, and responsive care.

Outside of her professional commitments, Claudia leads an active and vibrant lifestyle. She enjoys fashion, practices Pilates, and finds joy in long walks with her dog, Coco. A keen traveller, she loves exploring new cultures and environments, and values time spent with friends – whether trying a new cafe or embarking on a spontaneous adventure.

With a naturally curious mindset and a caring approach, Claudia is continually seeking opportunities for growth, both personally and professionally. She is excited to contribute to the allied health field and is driven by a strong sense of purpose in helping children live happier, more independent lives.

Ronald Sim

Ronald Sim (Ron) is a seasoned Business Manager with a diverse background. Having originally trained as a consultant pharmacist, Ron made a strategic shift into the world of business and management. With a strong foundation in healthcare, he brings a unique perspective to the business arena, combining pharmaceutical expertise with sharp managerial skills.

Ron is also a passionate sports enthusiast. He enjoys the thrill of competition and engages in sports like badminton and table tennis. This love for physical activity not only keeps him fit but also fuels his drive and determination in the professional sphere. Whether it’s managing a business or battling it out on the court, Ron approaches every challenge with dedication and a winning spirit.

Our Superstar Team

Occupational Therapists