CONNECTING DOTS FOR KIDS - Key Persons
Hello! My name is Bianca and I am a passionate speech pathologist who has worked for the Department of Education before joining the Connecting Dots for Kids team in private practice.
I received my Bachelor of Speech Pathology through the Australian Catholic University and am a Certified Practicing Speech Pathologist. I have an avid interest in speech sound disorders and am enthusiastic about working with preschoolers and school-aged children in both the school and home environment. I find particular joy in seeing my clients increase their confidence and functional skills when communicating with others. I have completed additional training in parent coaching and DIR-floortime workshops for Autism, which has helped me increase my skills in providing therapy through play.
I have grown up in Gippsland and enjoy working in the region that I love. Outside of work hours you can find me teaching group fitness classes, spending time on my parents' farm or trying to bake new creations in the kitchen.
Hello, my name is Camelia and I am studying Speech Pathology. I have recently started working at Connecting Dots for Kids as a Therapy Assistant. I have 2 kids of my own and I absolutely love watching all kids learn new skills and helping them develop great communication.
I have a real passion for seeing kids achieve the best they can and I am so excited to get to know the CDFK community.
When I'm not working or studying, I enjoy going for hikes, reading and trying out new food.
Hello! My name is Carmel and I am a passionate Gippslander who has lived and worked in Gippsland for the last 20 years. I am a certified practicing speech pathologist with post-graduate qualifications in family sensitive practice.
I have dedicated my career to regional, rural and remote communities, and have worked in public and private health and community settings from the waterline of Western Port Bay right across Gippsland including a fly-in fly-out service to Mallacoota. I've also had the opportunity to provide speech pathology services overseas in London, Yorkshire and Liverpool, as well as a number of years supporting policy development and improved access to allied health, mental health and specialist children's health and developmental services in regional, rural and remote communities across Gippsland and Western Australia.
Hi! My name is Dorothy and I am currently studying a Masters of Speech Pathology with Charles Sturt University. For the last 12 years, I was a primary school teacher, but am now changing careers and am lucky enough to do so at CDFK!
I grew up in the suburbs of Melbourne, but have lived in West Gippsland now for 9 years. I am a member of Warragul Theatre Company (I love to sing and perform), and live with my husband, two sons, a cat (Blissy) and a German Shepherd puppy (Jimmy).
Hello! I'm Ella, I'm currently studying a Bachelor of Speech and Language Sciences and Masters of Speech Pathology at Victoria University. I'm currently in my third year.
I'm excited to start at Connecting Dots for Kids, as it will allow me to explore more about my chosen career path! When I'm not in the clinic I love playing netball and walking my two dogs.
Hi, my name is Elvira and I am a Therapy Assistant at Connecting Dots for Kids. I assist our therapists in groups, create resources and communication aids for children, and work one on one with children to implement therapy programs created and supervised by our therapists.
I worked as a nurse for 22 years in Melbourne at various hospitals and last year completed my Allied Health Assistant Certificate. I have lived in West Gippsland for 12 years and I have three children. I love to go for drives around our beautiful hills, cook healthy food, renovate houses and take our jack russell for walks to our local walking track.
Hello! My name is Hannah and I am a Therapy Assistant at Connecting Dots for Kids. I am currently studying occupational therapy part time at Deakin University. I have a particular interest in working with school aged autistic children.
When I'm not working, I enjoy reading lots of fantasy books, talking with my budgie and playing piano.
I'm looking forward to working with you!
Hello! My name is Jenna, and I have recently started as a therapy assistant with CDFK.
Hi there, I'm Justine and I've just completed my Masters of Speech Pathology at Charles Sturt University. I also have a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary and Secondary). In my previous job as a primary school teacher, I became interested in speech sound and articulation disorders that some of the children were displaying in the classroom and wanted to know how I could help them more.
I have worked with adults and children during my placements, completing my final placement here at Connecting Dots for Kids in 2022 which I thoroughly enjoyed. I have a particular interest in literacy and language and I love making connections with families, to offer support wherever I am needed.
When I'm not in the clinic, I like to tuck into the pile of books next to my bed, pat my ridiculously fluffy cat and hang out with my two children which usually involves tickle games or Play doh.
I'm looking forward to working with you!
Job Titles:
- Client Experience Officer
Hello! My name is Riley and I am a new Graduate Speech Pathologist at Connecting Dots for Kids. I completed my Bachelor of Speech Pathology in 2023 at Australian Catholic University and I am a Certified Practicing Member of Speech Pathology Australia. I completed my final paediatric placement here at Connecting Dots for Kids in 2023 and I am excited to be a part of the team this year.
While studying, I worked as an Integration Aide at a primary school where I have helped children develop their literacy, phonology and social skills. Through this, I have developed a passion for working closely with children and their families to create personalised goals and assisting children in achieving these.
My name is Stephanie, and I am a registered Occupational Therapist with three years of experience specialising in paediatrics. Throughout my career, I have also gained valuable expertise in conducting Functional Capacity Assessment and Independent Living Options Assessment. I really enjoy my role as an OT, and I find that witnessing the progress and improvement of my clients is truly rewarding. It brings me joy to see them thrive and reach their developmental milestones.
Outside of work, I cherish the moments spent with my family and friends. I prioritise quality time with loved ones, fostering strong connections and creating lasting memories together. I am also passionate about travel and make it a point to explore new destinations whenever possible. Each year, I set aside time to travel to another country, finding inspiration and enrichment in diverse cultures and experiences.
As I transition into telehealth, I am excited about the flexibility it offers. Combining my love for travel with my dedication to my clients, I can now work from anywhere in the world! So exciting.