Practical, play-based support for communication, learning and confidence.
I’m a Speech-Language Therapist, Communication Accessibility Specialist and clinical leader with 27 years’ experience supporting children, young people and whānau across health, education, community and justice sectors in New Zealand and the United Kingdom. I care deeply about empowering whānau to understand communication needs, build on strengths and advocate for the support that will help their children thrive.
I completed my Bachelor of Speech-Language Therapy at the University of Canterbury in 1999 and Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Clinical Research from the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne in 2006. My career began in the UK, where I specialised in paediatric feeding (dysphagia), complex special needs, and supervision of clinicians and post-graduate students.
Since returning to Aotearoa in 2007, I have worked as a Senior Speech-Language Therapist at Kidz First Child Development, a Clinical Tutor within the University of Auckland Master of Speech-Language Therapy programme, Founder and Clinical Director of Small Talk Therapy, and a Court-appointed Communication Assistant within the New Zealand justice system. I have also contracted to the Ministry of Education and Learning Support services within schools, supporting children with a wide range of communication needs.
I have extensive experience working alongside children, young people, whānau, schools, government agencies, disability organisations and multidisciplinary teams to improve communication access, participation and inclusion.
My practice is grounded in neuro-affirming, strengths-based, evidence-informed and culturally responsive approaches, with a commitment to Te Tiriti-informed practice and ongoing learning in te reo Māori, te ao Māori and mātauranga Māori.
In addition to clinical services, I provide consultation, professional supervision, workforce development and training across education, disability and justice settings.