(BSpPath - CPSP, MOccThy - AHPRA reg, Cert III Fitness, Certified Facilitator of LEGO® Based Therapy)

(Languages: English)

Tori is a dedicated speech pathologist and occupational therapist with a passion for neurodivergence and complex needs. Her therapeutic approach is distinctly holistic, recognising that mental health, communication challenges and a person’s capacity for daily living often intertwine.

She is dedicated to addressing not only the immediate issues but also the underlying factors that contribute to a client's well-being. Tori's commitment to client-specific and targeted interventions ensures that each person receives tailored support that aligns with their unique goals.

Tori is a whole hearted advocate for empowering individuals and their support networks to navigate their complex needs with resilience and hope.

(BPubHlth)

(Languages: English)

Haley is a highly valued member of our team, bringing with her a wealth of experience in supporting children with diverse and complex needs. As our Practice Manager, she plays a pivotal role in coordinating care, overseeing daily operations, and ensuring the seamless delivery of services across the practice.

Her passion for holistic care and her strength in clear, compassionate communication are at the heart of everything she does. Haley consistently strives to find tailored, effective solutions that support families in accessing the essential services they need.

With a deep understanding of both clinical and administrative processes, Haley ensures that our systems run smoothly, enabling our team to focus on delivering high-quality care.

Her unwavering dedication, strategic insight, and commitment to creating a welcoming and efficient practice environment highlight her integral role in driving positive outcomes for children and their families.

(BSpPath (Hons) - CPSP, Level 1 Cert NZ Sign)

(Languages: English)

April is a talented speech pathologist with a strong clinical interest and expertise in early language intervention and the holistic treatment and management of stuttering.

April is Lidcombe trained, ensuring the highest level of proficiency in stuttering therapy. April's extensive experience includes working with complex neurodivergent children and those facing severe speech sound disorders, including Childhood Apraxia of Speech.

April excels in addressing complex communication difficulties and is experienced in facilitating HANEN parent workshops such as "It Takes Two to Talk" and "More Than Words." She is also committed to supporting families by implementing AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) systems.

Bronwyn is the friendly face at the front desk, here to help make your experience at our allied health clinic as easy and welcoming as possible. As our Client Support Officer, Bronwyn assists with bookings, answers questions, and supports both clients and the team across a range of services.

With a genuine passion for helping others, Bronwyn brings warmth, understanding, and care to every interaction. She’s committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where all clients feel comfortable and respected.

Working alongside our team of allied health professionals, Bronwyn helps keep things running smoothly so clients can focus on what matters most.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have been coming for a while, Bronwyn is always happy to help and ensure your experience is a positive one.

(BSpPath (Hons) - CPSP)

(Languages: English, Malayalam)

Sandra is a passionate speech pathologist with a profound commitment to enhancing the communication journey of young minds. She is passionate about early intervention, fluency, literacy, and language disorders,

Sandra has an unwavering dedication to holistic and client-centered models of care. Acknowledging the distinctiveness of each child, Sandra tailors her approach to address individual needs, ensuring a personalised and impactful therapeutic experience. Whether guiding early communicators, tackling fluency or stuttering challenges, nurturing literacy skills, or navigating language disorders, Sandra's methodology is deeply rooted in a comprehensive understanding of each child's unique journey.

With a steadfast focus on individualised care, she opens doors to brighter futures for every child under her guidance.

(Cert Med Admin, BSpPath - CPSP)

(Languages: English)

Kathryn is a commited speech pathologist with a passion for working with children of all ages. Her energy and commitment to her chosen field shines through in every aspect of her work. Her infectious enthusiasm for helping children unlock their communication potential is evident in her approach.

Kathryn’s keen interest in life long learning has provided her with a wealth of knowledge in childhood development. Kathryn is always ready to go the extra mile to ensure that her methods are evidence-based and tailored to meet each child's unique needs, providing the highest level of care and support.

Kathryn's exceptional attitude, commitment, and her unwavering love for helping others makes her such an inspiring professional in the field.

(BA. Languages - French & Italian , MSpPath - CPSP)

(Languages: English, Italian)

Mitzi is a dedicated speech pathologist who enjoys working in client advocacy and providing specialised support for neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan. With a focus on neuro-affirming practice, she is committed to creating an environment that recognises and celebrates neurodiversity as a valuable aspect of an individual's identity.

Mitzi is Sounds-Write trained and enjoys working in literacy. Her passion also extends to acquired brain injury rehabilitation and dysphagia management, where she excels in helping individuals regain their independence and quality of life.

Mitzi's dedication to her field and her unwavering commitment to the well-being of her clients make her a trusted advocate and resource for those seeking compassionate and effective care.

(Cert IV Volunteering, BOccThy (Hons) - AHPRA reg)

(Languages: English)

Molly is a dedicated and enthusiastic professional who is committed to enhancing the lives of children through fun and engaging therapy.

With a passion for motor skill development, Molly is constantly striving to expand her knowledge and expertise.

Molly is particularly interested in integrating sports into therapy, recognising the powerful role it can play in developing essential skills.

Driven by her desire to empower children and help them reach their full potential, Molly approaches each session with creativity and energy.

Understanding that every child is unique, they are committed to providing personalised, effective care that resonates with each child’s individual journey.

(BSSc (Psych), BSSc (Hons)(Psych), GradDip SocAdmin (Advanced Family Therapy), Cert Play Therapy)

(Languages: English)

Anita brings to our team a wealth of experience, including a profound understanding of play-based therapy, recognising its significant impact on children's development and emotional well-being. Her experience extends to working with non-verbal children and those with complex needs, where her empathetic and innovative approach has made a meaningful difference in their lives.

Anita's dedication to harnessing the power of play as a therapeutic tool, especially for children facing communication challenges, aligns perfectly with our commitment to holistic care and client-centered support at First Step Therapies. Additionally, Anita’s complex understanding of attachment styles and the impact of trauma on well-being adds a unique depth to her clinical expertise and therapy she provides.

(BSc Optom, MSc OT, Completing PhD in OT)

(Languages: English, Amharic)

Sara is passionate and dedicated individual with a background in occupational therapy and a profound commitment to supporting clients across all age groups in reaching their fullest potential. With her holistic approach, Sara recognises how mental health, daily life skills, and overall well-being intersect, creating unique challenges that deserve personalised and empathetic care.

Her client-centered philosophy is at the heart of her work, driving her to advocate for individualised support that addresses both immediate needs and the underlying factors influencing her clients' well-being. Sara values building meaningful connections with those she supports, understanding that trust and collaboration are essential for empowering clients to make the most of their capabilities and environments.

Through tailored, evidence-based interventions, Sara is dedicated to fostering independence and resilience in her clients.

(BScN RN)

(Languages: English)

With a strong passion for helping people find their own individualised version of success, Danielle brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her work. She loves problem-solving and researching best practices, always looking for new ways to help her clients reach their full potential.

In addition to her commitment to professional development, Danielle has experience with Key Word Sign, PODD, and Proloquo2go. These tools allow her to provide tailored support to individuals with communication needs, ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed.

This unique combination of skills and experience positions Danielle as a dedicated advocate for those seeking support and guidance on their path to success. Her commitment to inclusivity and unwavering dedication to her clients' well-being make her an invaluable allied health practicioner.

(Cert III Fitness, Cert III Business, Cert II Sport and Recreation, Cert II Sport Coaching, Diploma of Sport, Currently completing BOccThy)

(Languages: English, Cook Island Maori)

Charisma is a enthusiastic and dedicated individual pursuing a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy. 
Driven by a passion for advocating for children’s therapeutic needs and recognising the value of personalised support for every child.  Charisma finds great fulfillment in empowering clients to achieve their fullest potential. Drawing from a diverse sporting background. Charisma is particularly enthusiastic about utilising sports as a therapeutic tool, acknowledging it's significant contribution to both skill development and holistic health. Charisma is deeply committed to providing personalised care that makes therapy an enjoyable and engaging experience. Working primarily with children and adolecents, Charisma adopts a holistic, client-centred approach that emphasises creativty and fun in each session. 
Her commitment to building meaningful connections with clients and fostering resilience motivates her to create therapy that supports long-term success and well-being.

(BBiomedSc, currently completing BSpPath)

(Languages: English, Hindi, Punjabi)

With a passion for making a difference in the lives of others, Naina is a dedicated speech pathology student who thrives on the opportunity to help children reach their full potential.

Naina is always eager to learn and stay up-to-date with the latest practices in her field, continually seeking new ways to improve her skills and knowledge.

Her passion for community and giving back drives her to make a meaningful impact, especially in improving the lives of those she works with. Naina is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for every individual she assists, ensuring that each person’s unique needs are met with care and dedication. This blend of passion, learning, and commitment to others makes Naina a compassionate and valuable part of the allied health community.

(Dip RM, Cert IV TAE, Cert IV Mass, currently completing Dip EN)

(Languages: English)

With over 15 years of experience, Julie brings an extensive wealth of knowledge to the realm of healthcare. Her passion for working with individuals from all walks of life has been a driving force throughout her professional journey.

In addition to her healthcare expertise, Julie also possesses valuable experience from her time working in a mediator role, which has cultivated her compassionate understanding of those navigating challenging times.

This unique combination of skills and empathy positions Julie as a trusted advocate for individuals seeking support and guidance in their healthcare journey.

Her commitment to inclusivity and unwavering dedication to the well-being of others make her an invaluable asset to any healthcare team.