Nurturing the development and independence of children with neurodiversity!
Background
Coralie is a certified Occupational Therapist and the face behind The Olive Shoot. She graduated from Western Sydney University with a Bachelor of Health Science & Master of Occupational Therapy in 2017.
Coralie's journey into becoming an Occupational Therapist was one filled with challenges, as well as triumphs. It all started at the age of one when she sustained third degree burns to both of her hands. As a young child eager to explore, discover, play and figure things out, she often felt held back by her burn injuries. Naturally, she learnt to use her hands in very creative and unique ways to partake in everyday activities. This physical impairment was also accompanied by some social and emotional challenges which impacted on her ability to flourish.
However, amidst the setbacks, were also big and little wins. With the unwavering and immeasurable support, encouragement and hope instilled in her by her medical superheroes and amazing family, she was able to gradually gain full function of her hands, and with that came a boost of confidence.
This rollercoaster of a journey has shaped her identity and led her to discover her deepest passion, and that is, to nurture and support little ones and their families to thrive in the everyday activities that mean most to them and use their God-given gifts to reach their full potential!
Experience
Coralie is a member of Occupational Therapy Australia and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
Throughout her journey as an Occupational Therapist, Coralie has been fortunate to work in various clinical settings, including the private and non-for-profit sectors. She has had the pleasure of collaborating and learning from educational staff members, including Teachers and School Learning Support Officers, in addition to other health professionals, including Speech Pathologists, Physiotherapists, Psychologists, Social workers and Paediatricians.
Coralie has worked with children and teenagers with a range of diverse needs and diagnoses, comprising of:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Global Developmental Delay
- Sensory Processing Disorder
- Learning difficulties e.g. Dyslexia and Dysgraphia
- Behavioural disorders e.g. Oppositional Defiance Disorder and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder
- Mental Health disorders e.g. Depression and Anxiety
- Trauma and stress-related disorders
She has also had the opportunity of supporting individuals who have experienced traumatic childhoods or stressful upbringings. As such, Coralie places emphasis on trauma-informed care in her practice and understands the long-lasting emotional and psychological consequences of lived experiences, on an individual's everyday engagement.
Given her Mauritian heritage and bilingualism, Coralie has a passion for supporting families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. She has had the privilege of working in rural and remote communities with the Indigenous population and recognizes the importance of a holistic approach to therapy.
With her well-rounded clinical experiences and empathetic nature, Coralie looks forward to sharing her knowledge with families in need and serving her community to the best of her ability!