Jess graduated from Curtin University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Occupational Therapy and has been working in Paediatrics for the past 9 years across metro and rural Australia, in both the public and private sectors.

 

Jess is particularly passionate about working with neurodivergent children and associated co-occurring diagnoses. Jess's own lived experience with ND means she intimately understands the hurdles and challenges of everyday life in a neurotypical world. It is through this lens that Jess approaches her work, recognising the immense influence this experience has in supporting the children she works with to understand their diagnoses, navigate their environment, and feel confident in their neuro type so they can develop a positive self-identity and be able to advocate for themselves.​

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Jess established Functional Therapy Co after the realisation of widespread burnout and a lack of personalisation within the allied health sector. Jess wanted to create an inclusive workplace where diversity was recognised and supported, so that she could deliver the quality of service required to her clients whilst also maintaining her own well-being and work/life balance. 

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Jess is also a certified swim teacher through Royal Life Saving WA which allows her to provide 1:1 and group therapy sessions at the pool for children who experience sensory differences that impact on their ability to engage in mainstream swimming lessons.

 

Jess has completed Interoceptive Awareness training and ADOS-2 clinical training, allowing her to provide comprehensive assessment as part of a wider team to individuals with indications of Autism. ​​​