About Sense Therapies

Sense Therapies was founded in 2020 by the Founders of the Sense Team Sports program, Carlien Parahi and Jesse Parahi.

Together, they wanted to create a space for families where they can feel safe, supported and accepted whilst accessing the latest evidence-informed and effective therapies.

Sense Therapies in based in the Illawarra on Dharawal Country.

What can you expect at Sense Therapies?

Sense Therapies believe that therapy is most effective when:

  • It embraces the whole family as part of the therapy process

  • A child’s individual differences are celebrated and respected

  • We are play based and child-led

  • We work together to find the ‘why’ behind emotional and behavioural difficulties and address the concerns using a bottom up approach

  • We are trauma informed

  • We work collaboratively with the entire therapy team

  • We are flexible to deliver therapies in a way that works for your family with a variety of different approaches

  • Our team stay up to date with the latest neuroscience, therapy approaches and evidence

The following approaches and theories inform our care:

  • Sensory Integration

  • DIR Floortime

  • Polyvagal Theory

  • Window of tolerance

In addition, we strive to be neurodiversity-affirming and strengths based.

Meet the Team

  • Owner & Co-Founder Sense Therapies & Sense Team Sports

    Jesse Parahi

    Owner & Co-Founder Sense Therapies & Sense Team Sports

    An Australian Olympian & Rugby Union player and now Co-Founder of Sense Team Sports & Sense Therapies.​​​​​​​​​

    Jesse has an impressive on-field resume, one that deserves high commendation. Starting with rugby league as a kid in Sydney’s west, Jesse moved to Canberra at 18 to join the Brumbies academy. Scouted by Michael O'Connor he soon became a regular fixture in the Australian Rugby Sevens Team and spent 10 years helping the game transform into the amazing spectacle it is today. This journey took him around the world and led him to two Commonwealth Games, one as captain & one winning a Bronze medal. He played in two World Cups and the Rio Olympics in 2016.

    “Rugby is a beautiful game, and many aspects of our sport seem to align with Carlien's therapy approach: you're on all fours and wrestling, activating your inner core, which helps settle the nervous system, and there's plenty of running. It's a great way to get kids the sensory input they often crave in a positive way.”

    Jesse leads Sense Team Sports in Woonona, NSW, and runs Sense Therapies alongside his wife, Carlien.

  • Owner & Co-Founder Sense Therapies & Sense Team Sports

    Carlien Parahi

    Owner & Co-Founder Sense Therapies & Sense Team Sports

    Carlien is the Founder of Sense Therapies & the Sense Team Sports Programs and has been a Paediatric Occupational Therapist for over 10 years.

    She has significant experience in helping parents and children understand more about Sensory Processing Disorders/difficulties, delays in gross motor or fine motor skill development, Autism, Social-emotional difficulties, ADHD, Trauma and many more. She is passionate about assisting parents with building safety and connection into their family unit. She uses a child-led approach and focuses on helping families understand their child’s individual sensory, emotional and physical differences in order to best support a child to thrive. 

    As the Founder of Sense Team Sports.  Carlien has a special interest in sport and its many uses; particularly as a therapy tool to improve social skills, emotional regulation, coordination, Sensory Processing and a sense of community. Carlien leads the clinical team who deliver Sense Rugby across Australia and New Zealand and is considered a leader in inclusive sport.

    Her empathetic, playful nature and knowledge in child development has helped hundreds of children become more successful at their daily activities.

  • Jarrod Hargreaves

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Jarrod graduated from the University of the Sunshine Coast with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours). While in high school, a work experience placement at a local private paediatric OT clinic (by chance!) sparked his passion to support others in engaging in meaningful occupations.

    Jarrod has experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, neurological disorders, physical disabilities, and developmental delays. He has worked across a range of paediatric OT settings, including community, education, and private clinics. Jarrod is a certified DIR Floortime practitioner.

    A big kid at heart, Jarrod loves supporting children and their families to learn and develop through play.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    I grew up in Airlie Beach and Mackay in North Queensland. I love spending time with my family, going fishing, playing on the beach, bushwalking, watching the footy, and exploring new places.

    Your background and your why…

    I had no idea what I wanted to do in school. In Year 12, we had to do work experience, and I asked to do a placement at a speech therapy clinic because it sounded interesting. The coordinator couldn't find me a place, but her cousin owned a private paediatric OT clinic and offered to see if she could get me in there. I ended up doing my placement there and absolutely loved every second of it. That's what made me decide to become an occupational therapist and work with kids.

    Four years later, I was on my final 10-week placement at the Mackay Base Hospital, and the head of the OT paediatric department was the clinic owner from my work experience. Full circle moment!

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Hons)
    Floortime Introduction (101)
    Floortime Basic Certificate (201)
    Traffic Jam in My Brain (professional development)
    Zones of Regulation course (professional development)

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    The amazing team, our community and play.

  • Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Cassie O’Brien

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Cassie is a dedicated Paediatric Occupational Therapist with a passion for supporting neurodivergent children and teens. She brings a warm and collaborative approach to her work, building strong relationships with families and empowering children to reach their full potential.

    Your background and your why…

    Cassie graduated from Western Sydney University with a Bachelor of Health Science/Master of Occupational Therapy. Her passion for paediatrics grew after completing clinical placements as an occupational therapy student. During her studies, she worked as a teacher's aide in a high school setting, gaining valuable experience supporting children in an educational environment. She also volunteered as a carer for Muscular Dystrophy NSW and attended their camps over the years, further solidifying her commitment to working with children and young people with diverse needs.

    Cassie loves working with neurodivergent children and teens, people with sensory processing challenges, developmental delays, and motor difficulties. She has a special interest in working with girls within this field.

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    Bachelor of Health Science
    Master of Occupational Therapy
    Certified DIR Floortime Practitioner

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    Cassie is passionate about building strong therapeutic relationships with kids and their families and finding the best ways to support them. She enjoys working through a DIR (Developmental, Individual difference & Relationship-based model) lens.

    Cassie grew up playing competitive netball and touch football and still enjoys playing team sports. She loves the benefits of movement and getting outdoors and incorporating that into her therapy.

  • Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Haylee McDonnell

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Haylee is a dedicated Paediatric Occupational Therapist passionate about empowering children to reach their full potential. She combines her love of working with kids with a strong commitment to inclusion, creating opportunities for all children to thrive.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    I’m a country girl at heart with a passion for being outdoors and amongst nature. I love exploring new places, spending time at the beach, surfing, playing football, and socialising with friends and family.

    Your background and your why…

    Ever since I started working, I’ve worked with kids. I began as a dance teacher and then worked with the National Rugby League in their development program, throughout school and university. So, I always knew I wanted to work with kids. I am also very passionate about inclusion and giving children the opportunity to be involved and enjoy life and others around them. So, I guess when you mix these two passions together, you get a paediatric OT!

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    My paediatric experience began during my university degree with placements at John Hunter and Sydney Children’s Hospitals in the neurology wards. After graduating in 2017, I started working in the private paediatric space, primarily in sensory integration and with children with ASD, ADHD, and developmental delays. During this time, I trained in the DIR Floortime approach.

    After pursuing my passion for helping children with physical disabilities, I began developing my training and knowledge in neurodevelopmental treatments and moved into intensive and weekly therapy programs. Over the past two years, I worked within a world-renowned paediatric practice in Sydney, treating children with complex neurological conditions from all over Australia and abroad. I am certified in the Therasuit Method and a certified Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) therapist. I also have experience in equipment prescription, particularly with seating (wheelchairs and activity chairs) and postural support garments. My approach to therapy is very hands-on and function-driven to assist children with reaching developmental milestones while also supporting their posture, positioning, and sensory systems.

    Advance Seating Assessment and Prescription for basic and complex Equipment Prescription.

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    I love being part of such a fun, caring, and supportive team. It’s a great balance between work and fun!

  • Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Leonie Bosworth

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Leonie graduated from the University of Western Sydney with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy. Her passion for paediatrics developed during her clinical placements as a student. She has experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, and intellectual and chromosomal disabilities.

    Leonie has a special interest in supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, intellectual disabilities, sensory processing challenges, and coordination difficulties. She enjoys collaborating with families and other health professionals to achieve the best possible outcomes for each child.

    Committed to ongoing professional development, Leonie continually expands her skills and knowledge to provide the most effective interventions for her clients and their families.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    I come from a big family and grew up in the Sutherland Shire. I have a varied work history, including roles as a chef, personal trainer, travel agent, cabin crew, bank teller, office manager, and production coordinator. I am a Mum of one and enjoy being outdoors, hiking, surfing, swimming, and snowboarding. I love to travel and explore new places.

    Your background and your why…

    I found OT later in life, looking for a career change and something in demand outside major cities. I was always interested in health—specifically physio—but after learning more about OT, I decided it was a better fit. From the start of my degree, I always preferred working with kids. I think this is due to my playful nature and fascination with the marvel that is early childhood skill development.

    I've only ever worked in paediatrics, but I gained experience during university placements in aged care, rehabilitation, and mental health. 

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    I hold a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy.

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    Our fantastic team! The awesome resources and spaces we have. The wonderful clients and families I get to work with.

  • Carmel McGrath

    Art Therapist & Counsellor, Groups Coordinator

    Carmel is our true Jill-of-all-Trades, bringing a diverse skill set to the team.

    A creative soul and a lover of the outdoors, Carmel strongly believes in the healing properties of art and nature and their therapeutic benefits. She combines her patient, easy-going nature and youthful energy with these passions to help neurodivergent children achieve their goals and become their best selves through engagement with the outdoors and exploring their creativity. Carmelhas competed in women’s long boarding at both professional and amateur levels and is a qualified local surf coach, having delivered inclusive youth Learn to Surf and Ocean Safety programs.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    I grew up in Wombarra and went to Mt Michael's in Thirroul. I'm the second of four kids, have 20 cousins, one niece, and two nephews. Even though I'm just a big kid, I'm the oldest member of the team. Being creative fills my cup. The ocean is my happy place—sunrise surfs are my favourite! I have a four-legged best mate called Scooby. Off-grid camping is where it's at!

    Your background and your why…

    Carmel's background in teaching evolved into nannying, which allowed her to focus on her artist residency and exhibitions. She has over 15 years of combined experience teaching, supporting young families, and, in more recent years, supporting neurodivergent children in the community. Art and the ocean are her two greatest passions, and these flow through all aspects of her life.

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    Bachelor of Education (ECE), ASI Surf Instructor, and a Diploma of Art Therapy (College of Educational and Clinical Art Therapy).

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    Shared joy.

  • Amy Jenkins

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Amy is a passionate Paediatric Occupational Therapist who is dedicated to supporting and empowering individuals and families in her work at Sense Therapies.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    I grew up in the Blue Mountains and have lived in the Illawarra since 2020. I love camping, Pilates, yoga, bushwalking and watching the waves with a chai latte.

    Your background and your why…

    I have always been passionate about supporting and empowering individuals and families. During university I worked as a disability support worker and had always dreamt of being an OT.

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    DIR Floor time 101 Regulation Matters: Polyvagal Theory, Interoception and Emotional Integration (Kim Barthel)

    How long have you been working at Sense?

    Since 2021

    How did you come about to work at Sense?

    During University I worked at Sense Therapies, supporting Sense Rugby groups/ holiday groups

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    I love supporting and empowering families, I love watching children thrive in group and individual sessions and the growth families make as a whole.

  • Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Brooke Hampson

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Brooke is a passionate Paediatric Occupational Therapist dedicated to helping children thrive. She brings a warm and enthusiastic approach to her work, supporting children and families to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    I grew up in a rural coastal town on the far south coast before moving to Newcastle to study. This is where my love for the beach began. Having recently found my way down to Wollongong, I spend most of my time either swimming, surfing, or catching up with my friends and trying to find new coffee shops or hikes with a nice view!

    Your background and your why…

    I always knew I wanted to be in healthcare, helping people, and loved the idea of learning neuroanatomy and discovering why we function the way we do. After school, I worked as a PE teacher's assistant and loved the idea of working with kids to help them achieve something, either individually or as a group. This experience solidified my desire to work with children and led me to pursue Occupational Therapy.

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours)

    I have also completed the following certifications and training:
    DIR101 Introduction to Floortime
    Traffic Jam In My Brain
    Understanding and Promoting Visual-Vestibular Integration in Praxis
    Assessment and Intervention of Primitive Reflexes

    I also worked as a paediatric OT Assistant throughout University where I completed professional development on Trauma informed care and supporting children with Pathological Demand Avoidance.

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    Being able to see children and their families make big gains in and out of the clinic. Also, having fun! The clinic facilities are just as fun for us adults as they are for the kids.

  • Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Anna Evans

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Anna is a passionate Paediatric Occupational Therapist who brings warmth, enthusiasm, and a genuine love for working with children to her role at Sense Therapies. She's dedicated to helping children develop the skills they need to thrive and enjoys collaborating with families to create a supportive and empowering therapeutic experience.

    Our team organiser, process & systems guru and honorary Pink Wiggle.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    I grew up on a farm with my two sisters near Orange, NSW. I still visit them as much as I can and love getting back to spend time with family.

    I moved to Wollongong at the end of 2020—I absolutely love being by the beach and the mountains. I grew up playing hockey, although I would play almost every sport I could when I was younger.

    Your background and your why…

    I've always had a natural connection with children and have three nephews who I adore. While I knew I wanted to work in healthcare, it wasn't until my university placement in paediatrics that I discovered my true passion for Occupational Therapy and working with kids. I was inspired by the OT approach, which focuses on helping children develop the skills they need to participate fully in life's activities.

    A fun fact about me: I spent eight months working at an American Summer Camp for kids of all ages back in 2017! It was an incredible experience filled with laughter, learning, and some unforgettable moments.

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    I have a Master of Occupational Therapy from the University of Sydney and gained valuable experience during my clinical placements in various paediatric settings.

    Other certifications I have completed are:
    The Art of Paediatric Therapy- Alyce Svensk
    Traffic Jam in My Brain- Genevieve Jereb
    DIR Floortime 101
    Supporting Motor Function Through Play- Kim Barthel

    I am also currently undergoing additional training in Ayres Sensory Integration and Primitive Reflexes.

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    I genuinely love everything about working at Sense. I love the children and families, the team, the amazing space we get to work from, the clinic location, the community. EVERYTHING!

  • Ashlie Nobilo

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Ashlie enjoys participating in a range of outdoor activities and is passionate about working with children and supporting them to reach their fullest potential in her role at Sense Therapies.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    Ashlie grew up in New Zealand and has recently relocated to Australia. Ashlie enjoys participating in a range of outdoor activities with a strong upbringing in surf lifesaving and snowboarding.

    Your background and your why…

    I have always been interested in how the body and mind works. I came to learn about OT when a friend shared their experience of sustaining a workplace injury which resulted in them requiring support from an OT to help regain their function in daily life. I have a strong passion for working with children and supporting them to reach their fullest potential. Ashlie has enjoyed supporting children through a range of roles including youth worker support, surf lifesaving coaching and beach education, camp quality camps, and snowboard instructing.

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    Certificate in Outdoor Recreation. Bachelor of Health Science in Occupational Therapy. Graduate Diploma in Psychology. Master in Science (in Psychology). PhD in Philosophy (in Health Science).

    How long have you been working at Sense?

    Since November 2024

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    I really appreciate that we take a neuroaffirming, play-based, and child-led approach to therapy, fostering both engagement and skill development in a way that truly meets each child where they are. I love that our work is grounded in evidence-based approaches and theories, including DIR Floortime, Sensory Integration, the Window of Tolerance, and Polyvagal Theory. These frameworks guide our practice, helping us support children in a way that is both research-informed and responsive to their needs. I also value that we offer a variety of sport programmes, providing opportunities for children who may face challenges accessing mainstream sports. This not only gives them the chance to participate but also fosters a sense of belonging and inclusion - something that is so important for their confidence and overall well-being.

  • Josie Jackson

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Josie is a passionate Paediatric Occupational Therapist with a strong commitment to inclusion and empowering children of all abilities. She brings a warm, supportive, and playful approach to her work with children and families.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    I grew up in Cowra, a country town in NSW, with my three brothers. Swimming has always been a big part of my life, and I spent much of my childhood swimming competitively and training. I love being active and enjoying the outdoors.

    From a young age, I had a strong sense of justice and believed in providing opportunities for all people, especially those who may need extra support. This led me to connect with and support children who were experiencing exclusion or facing challenges.

    Your background and your why…

    During a gap year after school, I worked as a teacher's aide at a school for children with diverse abilities. This experience opened my eyes to the world of Occupational Therapy. I observed how OTs used play to help children develop essential skills, and I was inspired by their ability to make a real difference in the lives of these kids.

    Through university, I learned more about the breadth of Occupational Therapy and its focus on supporting people to do what they want, need, or are required to do. My passion for working with children continued to grow, and I saw firsthand the positive impact OTs can have in supporting children across different areas of their lives.

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    Getting to meet some incredible kids and their families, the team spirit, and the group programs!

  • Emmerson Mathie

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Emmerson is an enthusiastic Paediatric Occupational Therapist who brings a love of movement, play, and connection to her work with children and families. She's passionate about helping children achieve their goals and enjoys creating a fun and supportive therapeutic environment.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    I’m a very sporty person who loves staying active, whether it’s through playing sports or enjoying outdoor activities. The beach is my happy place, and I love spending time by the water. I enjoy socialising with friends, whether it’s going for walks or grabbing coffee. I also have a passion for traveling and exploring new places.

    Your background and your why…

    From a young age, I’ve always been drawn to helping others, especially children. Being around kids and supporting them has always felt natural to me. As I explored career options, I discovered that occupational therapy was the perfect way to combine my passion for working with children and my desire to make a lasting impact. Helping children overcome challenges and achieve their goals is incredibly fulfilling, and it continues to motivate me in this field.

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

    I also worked as an AHA while studying at university for my Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree. 

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    My favourite part about working at Sense is the supportive and collaborative environment. The team is welcoming, and there's a strong sense of unity, which makes it such an enjoyable place to work. I also love how the work we do truly makes a positive impact in people's lives, and the ability to connect with clients in such meaningful ways is incredibly rewarding.

  • Melika Durham

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Melika is a passionate Paediatric Occupational Therapist who brings a love of sports, an active lifestyle, and a strong commitment to helping children thrive to her work at Sense Therapies.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    Growing up in the small country town of Temora, I was surrounded by a close-knit family, including three younger siblings and many cousins, which sparked my love for working with kids. My passion for sports and an active lifestyle began early, leading me to study Exercise Science and later Occupational Therapy. Moving to Wollongong, I quickly fell in love with the lifestyle and beautiful beaches. In my free time, I enjoy exploring, discovering hidden waterfalls and rock pools, paddleboarding, going to the gym, and cooking new recipes!

    Your background and your why…

    I've always enjoyed being around kids, teaching my siblings new skills, and organising fun activities and games growing up. It was through these experiences that I discovered my passion for helping children develop and reach their full potential. This, combined with my interest in health and wellbeing, led me to pursue a career in Occupational Therapy.

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    Bachelor of Exercise Science
    Master of Occupational Therapy

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    Every day I get to see kids learn and grow, which is incredibly rewarding! Watching the positive impact that OTs have on children's lives and seeing them thrive makes my job so fulfilling and FUN! I love the supportive environment and community that Sense has created.

  • Nathan Limbers

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Nathan is a young and enthusiastic Occupational Therapist who is passionate about encouraging and supporting kids to get involved in active and outdoor activities.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    I am a young occupational therapist who grew up in Sydney. I completed my Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at ACU in North Sydney. I moved to the South Coast 1.5 years ago after falling in love with the beaches, green farmland, rainforests and the general atmosphere. I love everything active and outdoors and am super passionate about encouraging and supporting kids to get involved. I find it especially rewarding to help those who find this more difficult and often get left out due to emotional, social, physical or sensory challenges. Sport has helped me to build lifelong friendships, resilience, social skills and confidence, and it is my desire to enable all children of all walks of life to do the same.

    Your background and your why?

    My older sister is an OT and she always talked about how rewarding it is to help people to do things they otherwise could not do. I always knew I wanted to do something in the health field and once I finished school, OT just seemed like the best way to help people everyday.

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    Bachelor of Occupational Therapy 3 Years working as a disability support worker 3 Years working in disability equipment. 2 years working with a mixed caseload including children and adults, with a primary caseload of children and adults with ASD, intellectual disability or other developmental delay.

    How long have you been working at Sense?

    Since April 2025

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    Moving around and building skills through fun and engaging ways.

  • Georgia Fogden

    Child and Adolescent Psychologist

    Georgia is a warm and compassionate Child and Adolescent Psychologist dedicated to supporting young people's emotional well-being and mental health. She provides a safe and supportive space for children and families to explore their feelings and develop strategies to navigate life's challenges.

    Georgia operates from an individual needs and strengths-based perspective and also enjoys working with families and schools to create holistic support and understanding. Broadly, Georgia keeps the best interests of the client at the forefront and gives them a safe space to explore feelings and develop the necessary skills to live a values-based life.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    In my spare time I enjoy going to the beach, running, reading, spending time with family and friends, and exploring new places.

    Your background and your why…

    Georgia graduated from the University of Wollongong with a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) and a Master of Clinical Psychology from the University of Technology Sydney in 2018. She has experience working in an early intervention setting with young children and their parents, targeting emerging emotional and behavioural concerns using an attachment and emotion-focused framework.

    She also has experience working as a school psychologist, drawing upon evidence-based psychological interventions such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) to target presentations of ADHD, anxiety, behavioural difficulties, emotion dysregulation, and more. She also has experience facilitating cognitive and learning assessments.

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
    Master of Clinical Psychology

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    So far what I enjoy most about working with Sense is the friendly atmosphere of the clinic, including the staff and seeing the smiles of the kids that come through. I also enjoy being creative working with the kids to develop skills in emotional awareness, and getting to use the fun equipment in the sensory gyms along the way!

  • Bronte Cooke

    Paediatric Speech Pathologist

    Bronte is passionate about working with children, a passion that developed from an early age.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    I am originally from Bathurst, but I moved to Wollongong in 2019 to study where I did Exercise Science at UOW followed by a Masters in Speech Pathology through University of Canberra. I currently live in Wollongong with my partner Jack and we love living by the beach!

    Your background and your why?

    I have just always loved children! As the eldest of 4 siblings and the oldest of 24 cousins, caring for little ones has been a part of my life from an early age. Every year, my grandparents would take all of us grandchildren on a week-long holiday they called "Kids Week," giving our parents a well-earned break. With so many babies and young children around, I was often helping out and caring for them and I absolutely loved it. These early experiences sparked my passion for working with children, though I knew teaching wasn’t the right fit for me. I initially pursued a degree in Exercise Science with the intention of becoming a physiotherapist, but I soon realised it wasn’t where my heart was. It wasn’t until I did work experience at a speech pathology clinic that everything clicked—I knew I had found my calling. Throughout my studies, I worked as a nanny, which brought me so much joy and reaffirmed my passion for supporting children and their families. I developed a special fondness for caring for twins, and I continue to cherish the unique bonds I build through this work.

    What experience and certifications do you have?

    Bachelor of Exercise Science, Master of Speech Pathology, LAMP AAC training (professional development), Sounds Write Literacy program (professional development), Key Word Sign workshop (professional development).

    How long have you been working at Sense?

    I have just started (April 2025)

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    Everything! Working at Sense is truly amazing. What makes it so special is the incredible team I get to work with every day, the strong values we all share, and the supportive, inclusive community that defines our culture. I also love being able to support our amazing families that walk through the door each day and watching our little people learn & grow. I feel so privileged to be on this journey with them and am very grateful that I can play a small part in their lives, it really does bring me so much joy :)

  • Chelsea Crean

    Business & Operations Manager

    Chelsea works behind the scenes at Sense Therapies, ensuring the smooth operation of the business and supporting the team to do what they do best. She brings a passion for organisation, efficiency, and positive impact to her role.

    Tell us a little bit about yourself…

    I'm a country girl at heart but also don't think I could ever move away from the coast. I'm a proud Mum to two boys. I grew up in Bombala, a small town in southern NSW. I've always had an entrepreneurial spirit, working in hospitality from a young age and even cooking in my local pub from the age of 13! I worked as a shearers' cook and a roustabout when I was 18 before setting off travelling.

    After becoming a mum, I wanted to find something I was passionate about and something that would make my boys and my husband proud and I truly believe I have found that working at Sense Therapies.

    Your background and your why…

    I started The Business Edit in 2020 and began working with Carlien and Jesse in 2023, managing their social media. In January 2024, I came on board as their Business and Operations Manager.

    My "why" is to create a life that supports my family and my ambitions as an entrepreneur and a Mum. I want to create positive change for people and have a positive effect on our community.

    What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

    I love working at Sense for so many reasons. The team is incredible, so welcoming, and an absolute pleasure to work with. Carlien and Jesse are amazing to work for and provide such a positive platform for us all to learn and grow. And most importantly, seeing the impact Sense Therapies has on the kids and families in our community and the awareness that brings to my boys is amazing.

  • Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Samantha Mostert

    Paediatric Occupational Therapist

    Currently on Maternity Leave.

  • Administration

    Carla Mikic

    Administration

    You can expect to be greeted with warmth, some chipper chatter & what I have been told, is infectious positivity.

    With many professional years in the disability, social & community sector along with a lifetime of lived experience, I truly believe life in general takes a Village, let’s build ours together!

  • Cherie Hamilton

    Practice Manager

Did you know that we offer a number of different services and programs to suit your childs needs?