MEET OUR TEAM
MEET OUR TEAM
Jess Welsby - OT
Jess is an experienced Occupational Therapist who approaches all of her sessions with a balance of professionalism and warmth, celebrating every achievement as a significant step in a child's development. With a knack for turning activities into playful and engaging challenges, Jess effortlessly builds rapport with children and their families, making therapy sessions feel more relaxed. As a mother of two children herself, Jess brings an extra layer of empathy and understanding to her work, knowing first-hand the challenges and milestones of childhood development. When she's not working in the clinic you will most likely find Jess spending time with her family assembling their latest awesome lego creations!
Stephanie Harrison - OT
I’m Steph, Occupational Therapist here at The Therapy Room NQ. I graduated from James Cook University in Townsville with an Honours Degree in Occupational Therapy. Early in my career, I discovered the world of paediatric therapy and have since focused on this area of practice. I have experience working with Autism Spectrum Disorder inclusive of PDA profile, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Global Developmental Delay, and Intellectual Impairment. Through tailored therapy sessions, I aim to empower children to achieve their fullest potential using various techniques, from fine motor skills and emotional regulation to sensory integration. My goal is to help each child gain confidence and independence in their daily activities. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring the outdoors, spending time with my family and friends, and getting lost in a good book. I look forward to joining your child on their journey towards achieving their goals. I’m a Paediatric OT; of course, therapy will be FUN!!!”
Sahara Kay - OT
Sahara is a FNQ local and has worked with individuals across the lifespan to provide support and assist them to meet shared goals and milestones. Sahara enjoys incorporating fun activities to make sessions enjoyable, while also focusing on skill development. She enjoys meeting and conversing with families to ensure strategies are effective and easily incorporated into their everyday life. Whether your child is working through some developmental challenges or just needs a little extra support, she's passionate about helping them grow and thrive. Outside of work I enjoy attending live music, checking out local op shops, exploring the Townsville coffee scene and spending time with my niece and nephew.
Alexandra Jones - OT
Alex grew up in Brisbane and has recently made the move north to sunny Townsville, where she has joined our team at The Therapy Room NQ. Alex previously worked in a rural and remote outreach Occupational Therapy role, supporting both children and adults across regional and remote communities. Through this experience, she developed a creative, flexible, and resourceful approach to therapy, often adapting activities and strategies to suit each person’s unique environment and needs. Alex is passionate about creating a fun, relaxed and supportive therapy environment where children feel comfortable to learn, play and grow. She enjoys incorporating play-based activities into sessions to help children build skills, confidence and independence. Alex strongly values collaboration with parents, carers and educators, believing that working together as a team is key to helping each child reach their full potential.
Vikki Ruddell - OT
Vikki has lived and worked in Townsville for over 30 years and is skilled in working with individuals across all stages of life. As a mother herself, she is passionate about working with children and their families to foster development and ensure each child's success. She intimately understands childhood milestones and challenges, bringing a personal warmth and client centred approach to her sessions. Her sessions are all about infusing creativity and joy, whether she's boosting fine motor skills or exploring sensory play, she aims to make learning fun. When Vikki is not in the clinic, she loves spending quality time with her family and friends, fishing, and reading a good book!
Madelyn LaSpina - OT
Madelyn graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from James Cook University in Townsville. Since beginning her career, she has gained valuable experience working in paediatric settings, where her passion for supporting children has continued to grow. She has a special interest in working with children who require feeding therapy or experience sensory differences related to food. Madelyn is dedicated to helping young clients build confidence and develop the skills they need to participate fully in everyday life. Whether your child is navigating developmental challenges or simply needs a little extra support, Madelyn is committed to helping them grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. A local of Townsville, Madelyn enjoys collecting earrings and Lego sets in her spare time, as well as spending quality time with her family and friends.
Glenda Blackwell
Psychologist
Glenda Specialises in:
EMDR -
Trauma -
Nutrition and Mental Health -
Affect Regulation Therapy (ART) -
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) -
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) -
Emotional Freedom Techniques - Tapping (EFT).
Glenda provides Psychological support for individuals, couples and families.
Glenda is a registered Workcover Counselling provider and can provide counselling support in line with Workcover requirements. Glenda is registered with Open Arms Veterans Counselling Service and can offer a wide range of support to current and past serving members and their families. Glenda can also support individuals, couples and families via Medicare Referrals, DVA, Workcover, NDIS Funding and Privately Funded Therapy.
Michael Harman - Mental Health Social Worker, Psychosocial Therapist & Recovery Specialist
Michael specialises in: PTSD and Trauma - EMDR and Trauma Therapy, Anxiety and Depression - CBT and ACT, Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorders, ADHD, OCD and ASD, Behaviour Therapy including working with parents and other carers in session, Muscle-Based Therapy (AIAS qualified). Michael can work with adults and children who have physical, intellectual, or psychiatric disabilities, collaborating with multiple stakeholders such as the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG), hospitals, and other government departments. He can support individuals in transitioning from health or mental health facilities to independent living in the community. Michael can assist NDIS participants to achieve their goals of becoming fully involved, valued members of their communities. Michael is registered with Open Arms Veterans Counselling Service and can offer a wide range of support to current and past serving members and their families. Michael can also support individuals, couples and families via Medicare Referrals, DVA, Workcover, NDIS Funding and Privately Funded Therapy. Michael is qualified to provide Professional Supervision & Development to peers and professionals outside this organisation by request.
Mara Gomes - Mental Health Social Worker & Play Therapist
Mara is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with a background in Play Therapy and a passion for supporting children and families through life's challenges. She previously worked as a mental health clinician within the hospital system, supporting children, teens and young adults with complex diagnoses. Mara uses a trauma-informed, client-centred approach and loves working alongside families and professionals to create meaningful change. Mara Holds a Bachelor in Psychological Science and a Masters in Social Work. Mara is also fully trained in facilitating the following programs - Tuning into Kids & Bringing up Great Kids.
Jessica Tooth - Practice Manager
With over 20 years of experience in healthcare and allied health, Jess brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. As a compassionate and dedicated leader, she is passionate about creating a supportive and happy work environment for both staff and clients. Outside of the office, Jess loves spending quality time with her husband and children, enjoying holiday adventures, indulging in some retail therapy, and unwinding with a good audiobook.
Jess Welsby - OT
Jess is an experienced Occupational Therapist who approaches all of her sessions with a balance of professionalism and warmth, celebrating every achievement as a significant step in a child's development. With a knack for turning activities into playful and engaging challenges, Jess effortlessly builds rapport with children and their families, making therapy sessions feel more relaxed. As a mother of two children herself, Jess brings an extra layer of empathy and understanding to her work, knowing first-hand the challenges and milestones of childhood development. When she's not working in the clinic you will most likely find Jess spending time with her family assembling their latest awesome lego creations!
Jess Welsby - OT
Jess is an experienced Occupational Therapist who approaches all of her sessions with a balance of professionalism and warmth, celebrating every achievement as a significant step in a child's development. With a knack for turning activities into playful and engaging challenges, Jess effortlessly builds rapport with children and their families, making therapy sessions feel more relaxed. As a mother of two children herself, Jess brings an extra layer of empathy and understanding to her work, knowing first-hand the challenges and milestones of childhood development. When she's not working in the clinic you will most likely find Jess spending time with her family assembling their latest awesome lego creations!
Stephanie Harrison - OT
I’m Steph, Occupational Therapist here at The Therapy Room NQ. I graduated from James Cook University in Townsville with an Honours Degree in Occupational Therapy. Early in my career, I discovered the world of paediatric therapy and have since focused on this area of practice. I have experience working with Autism Spectrum Disorder inclusive of PDA profile, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Global Developmental Delay, and Intellectual Impairment. Through tailored therapy sessions, I aim to empower children to achieve their fullest potential using various techniques, from fine motor skills and emotional regulation to sensory integration. My goal is to help each child gain confidence and independence in their daily activities. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring the outdoors, spending time with my family and friends, and getting lost in a good book. I look forward to joining your child on their journey towards achieving their goals. I’m a Paediatric OT; of course, therapy will be FUN!!!”
Stephanie Harrison - OT
I’m Steph, Occupational Therapist here at The Therapy Room. I graduated from James Cook University in Townsville with an Honours Degree in Occupational Therapy. Early in my career, I discovered the world of paediatric therapy and have since focused on this area of practice. I have experience working with Autism Spectrum Disorder inclusive of PDA profile, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Global Developmental Delay, and Intellectual Impairment. Through tailored therapy sessions, I aim to empower children to achieve their fullest potential using various techniques, from fine motor skills and emotional regulation to sensory integration. My goal is to help each child gain confidence and independence in their daily activities. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring the outdoors, spending time with my family and friends, and getting lost in a good book. I look forward to joining your child on their journey towards achieving their goals. I’m a Paediatric OT; of course, therapy will be FUN!!!”
Sahara Kay - OT
Sahara is a FNQ local and has worked with individuals across the lifespan to provide support and assist them to meet shared goals and milestones. Sahara enjoys incorporating fun activities to make sessions enjoyable, while also focusing on skill development. She enjoys meeting and conversing with families to ensure strategies are effective and easily incorporated into their everyday life. Whether your child is working through some developmental challenges or just needs a little extra support, she's passionate about helping them grow and thrive. Outside of work I enjoy attending live music, checking out local op shops, exploring the Townsville coffee scene and spending time with my niece and nephew.
Sahara Kay - OT
Sahara is a FNQ local and has worked with individuals across the lifespan to provide support and assist them to meet shared goals and milestones. Sahara enjoys incorporating fun activities to make sessions enjoyable, while also focusing on skill development. She enjoys meeting and conversing with families to ensure strategies are effective and easily incorporated into their everyday life. Whether your child is working through some developmental challenges or just needs a little extra support, she's passionate about helping them grow and thrive. Outside of work I enjoy attending live music, checking out local op shops, exploring the Townsville coffee scene and spending time with my niece and nephew.
Alexandra Jones - OT
Alex grew up in Brisbane and has recently made the move north to sunny Townsville, where she has joined our team at The Therapy Room NQ. Alex previously worked in a rural and remote outreach Occupational Therapy role, supporting both children and adults across regional and remote communities. Through this experience, she developed a creative, flexible, and resourceful approach to therapy, often adapting activities and strategies to suit each person’s unique environment and needs. Alex is passionate about creating a fun, relaxed and supportive therapy environment where children feel comfortable to learn, play and grow. She enjoys incorporating play-based activities into sessions to help children build skills, confidence and independence. Alex strongly values collaboration with parents, carers and educators, believing that working together as a team is key to helping each child reach their full potential.
Alexandra Jones - OT
Alex grew up in Brisbane and has recently made the move north to sunny Townsville, where she has joined our team at The Therapy Room NQ. Alex previously worked in a rural and remote outreach Occupational Therapy role, supporting both children and adults across regional and remote communities. Through this experience, she developed a creative, flexible, and resourceful approach to therapy, often adapting activities and strategies to suit each person’s unique environment and needs. Alex is passionate about creating a fun, relaxed and supportive therapy environment where children feel comfortable to learn, play and grow. She enjoys incorporating play-based activities into sessions to help children build skills, confidence and independence. Alex strongly values collaboration with parents, carers and educators, believing that working together as a team is key to helping each child reach their full potential.
Vikki Ruddell - OT
Vikki has lived and worked in Townsville for over 30 years and is skilled in working with individuals across all stages of life. As a mother herself, she is passionate about working with children and their families to foster development and ensure each child's success. She intimately understands childhood milestones and challenges, bringing a personal warmth and client centred approach to her sessions. Her sessions are all about infusing creativity and joy, whether she's boosting fine motor skills or exploring sensory play, she aims to make learning fun. When Vikki is not in the clinic, she loves spending quality time with her family and friends, fishing, and reading a good book!
Vikki Ruddell - OT
Vikki has lived and worked in Townsville for over 30 years and is skilled in working with individuals across all stages of life. As a mother herself, she is passionate about working with children and their families to foster development and ensure each child's success. She intimately understands childhood milestones and challenges, bringing a personal warmth and client centred approach to her sessions. Her sessions are all about infusing creativity and joy, whether she's boosting fine motor skills or exploring sensory play, she aims to make learning fun. When Vikki is not in the clinic, she loves spending quality time with her family and friends, fishing, and reading a good book!
Madelyn LaSpina - OT
Madelyn graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from James Cook University in Townsville. Since beginning her career, she has gained valuable experience working in paediatric settings, where her passion for supporting children has continued to grow. She has a special interest in working with children who require feeding therapy or experience sensory differences related to food. Madelyn is dedicated to helping young clients build confidence and develop the skills they need to participate fully in everyday life. Whether your child is navigating developmental challenges or simply needs a little extra support, Madelyn is committed to helping them grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. A local of Townsville, Madelyn enjoys collecting earrings and Lego sets in her spare time, as well as spending quality time with her family and friends.
Madelyn LaSpina - OT
Madelyn graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from James Cook University in Townsville. Since beginning her career, she has gained valuable experience working in paediatric settings, where her passion for supporting children has continued to grow. She has a special interest in working with children who require feeding therapy or experience sensory differences related to food. Madelyn is dedicated to helping young clients build confidence and develop the skills they need to participate fully in everyday life. Whether your child is navigating developmental challenges or simply needs a little extra support, Madelyn is committed to helping them grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. A local of Townsville, Madelyn enjoys collecting earrings and Lego sets in her spare time, as well as spending quality time with her family and friends.
Madelyn LaSpina - OT
Madelyn graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from James Cook University in Townsville. Since beginning her career, she has gained valuable experience working in paediatric settings, where her passion for supporting children has continued to grow. She has a special interest in working with children who require feeding therapy or experience sensory differences related to food. Madelyn is dedicated to helping young clients build confidence and develop the skills they need to participate fully in everyday life. Whether your child is navigating developmental challenges or simply needs a little extra support, Madelyn is committed to helping them grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. A local of Townsville, Madelyn enjoys collecting earrings and Lego sets in her spare time, as well as spending quality time with her family and friends.
Michel Harman - Mental Health Social Worker, Psychosocial Therapist & Recovery Specialist
Michael specialises in: PTSD and Trauma - EMDR and Trauma Therapy, Anxiety and Depression - CBT and ACT, Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorders, ADHD, OCD and ASD, Behaviour Therapy including working with parents and other carers in session, Muscle-Based Therapy (AIAS qualified). Michael can work with adults and children who have physical, intellectual, or psychiatric disabilities, collaborating with multiple stakeholders such as such as the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG), hospitals, and other government departments. He can support individuals in transitioning from health or mental health facilities to independent living in the community. Michael can assist NDIS participants to achieve their goals of becoming fully involved, valued members of their communities. Michael is registered with Open Arms Veterans Counselling Service and can offer a wide range of support to current and past serving members and their families. Michael can also support individuals, couples and families via Medicare Referrals, DVA, Workcover, NDIS Funding and Privately Funded Therapy. Michael is qualified to provide Professional Supervision & Development to peers and professionals outside this organisation by request.
Michael specialises in: PTSD and Trauma - EMDR and Trauma Therapy, Anxiety and Depression - CBT and ACT, Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorders, ADHD, OCD and ASD, Behaviour Therapy including working with parents and other carers in session, Muscle-Based Therapy (AIAS qualified). Michael can work with adults and children who have physical, intellectual, or psychiatric disabilities, collaborating with multiple stakeholders such as the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG), hospitals, and other government departments. He can support individuals in transitioning from health or mental health facilities to independent living in the community. Michael can assist NDIS participants to achieve their goals of becoming fully involved, valued members of their communities. Michael is registered with Open Arms Veterans Counselling Service and can offer a wide range of support to current and past serving members and their families. Michael can also support individuals, couples and families via Medicare Referrals, DVA, Workcover, NDIS Funding and Privately Funded Therapy. Michael is qualified to provide Professional Supervision & Development to peers and professionals outside this organisation by request.
Glenda Blackwell - Psychologist
Glenda Specialises in: EMDR - Trauma - Nutrition and Mental Health - Affect Regulation Therapy (ART) - Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) - Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) - Emotional Freedom Techniques - Tapping (EFT). Glenda can provide psychological support to individuals, couples and families. Glenda is also a registered Workcover Counselling provider and can provide counselling support in line with Workcover requirements. Glenda is registered with Open Arms Veterans Counselling Service and can offer a wide range of support to current and past serving members and their families. Glenda can also support individuals, couples and families via Medicare Referrals, DVA, Workcover, NDIS Funding and Privately Funded Therapy.
Glenda Blackwell - Psychologist
Glenda Specialises in: EMDR - Trauma - Nutrition and Mental Health - Affect Regulation Therapy (ART) - Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) - Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) - Emotional Freedom Techniques - Tapping (EFT). Glenda can provide psychological support to individuals, couples and families. Glenda is also a registered Workcover Counselling provider and can provide counselling support in line with Workcover requirements. Glenda is registered with Open Arms Veterans Counselling Service and can offer a wide range of support to current and past serving members and their families. Glenda can also support individuals, couples and families via Medicare Referrals, DVA, Workcover, NDIS Funding and Privately Funded Therapy.
Mara Gomes - Mental Health Social Worker & Play Therapist
Mara is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with a background in Play Therapy and a passion for supporting children and families through life's challenges. She previously worked as a mental health clinician within the hospital system, supporting children, teens and young adults with complex diagnoses. Mara uses a trauma-informed, client-centred approach and loves working alongside families and professionals to create meaningful change. Mara Holds a Bachelor in Psychological Science and a Masters in Social Work. Mara is also fully trained in facilitating the following programs - Tuning into Kids & Bringing up Great Kids.
Jess Tooth
Practice Manager
With over 20 years of experience in healthcare and allied health, Jess brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. As a compassionate and dedicated leader, she is passionate about creating a supportive and happy work environment for both staff and clients. Outside of the office, Jess loves spending quality time with her husband and children, enjoying holiday adventures, indulging in some retail therapy, and unwinding with a good audiobook.
Jess Tooth
Practice Manager
With over 20 years of experience in healthcare and allied health, Jess brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. As a compassionate and dedicated leader, she is passionate about creating a supportive and happy work environment for both staff and clients. Outside of the office, Jess loves spending quality time with her husband and children, enjoying holiday adventures, indulging in some retail therapy, and unwinding with a good audiobook.