Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) 

  

Ellen is a registered occupational therapist and managing Director of Life Skills Hub. Ellen always knew that she wanted to work with children, and entered the OT field after her brother was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).   

Ellen has a broad range of experience working within the paediatric field, primarily within the private practice sector alongside various allied health and medical professionals. She holds strong values for providing therapeutic supports that holistic and practical in nature, in considering all supports around a client and their current circumstances. She is passionate about providing interventions that draw upon a young person’s strengths, and caters to their individual motivations and needs. She believes that true client-centred care involves consent, collaboration and transparency – no matter what age.   

 

After working within the private sector for many years as an OT, Ellen saw a large disconnect between the types of services provided to youth in the disability sector. Many were seeking increased independence and social connection, however were accessing supports that were designed for children in paediatric settings. Young people accessing services needed spaces that they felt connected to, as well as be provided supported opportunities to practice the skills they were learning in 1:1 therapy. What was needed was a place between the home and the clinic environment, where young people could come together to engage in groups and be provided with the right, tailored, and individualised supports to enable them to be successful. A place that tells young people they are in charge, they are capable, and they are welcome. That is when the vision for Life Skills Hub was born.  

 

Ellen also has a passion for contributing to the occupational therapy field by supporting the growth and development of OT students. She has experience as a clinical educator for 4th Year OT university students and provides many opportunities within Life Skills Hub to promote relational-based and practice approaches for students in a working environment. She has undertaken supervision training and is currently undertaking the process to work towards becoming an OTA Endorsed Supervisor.  

 

At the age of 30, Ellen was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and this often assists her in connecting with young people who also experience the same strengths and challenges as others with ADHD. Receiving this diagnosis has awakened a passion for working more in this area and supporting the increased awareness of ADHD in females. 

You will often find Ellen running around Life Skills Hub, talking to as many staff and clients as possible, making jokes with young people or trying the delicious snacks made in cooking groups. Her bubbly, energetic and compassionate nature helps client and families feel connected and safe.  

 

Ellen has, and continues to seek training in: 

• The Sequential Oral Sensory Approach to Feeding (SOS) 

• Providing Professional & Clinical Supervision 

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) 

 

She has special interests in: 

• Practical approaches to developing life skills in children and young people 

• Supporting the growth and development for OT students and new graduates 

• Supporting clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD. 

• Providing consultancy and training to schools and other organisations