Testimonials

From the parents and caregivers of some of the children I work with

Max, aged 5

“I didn’t really know what OT was before Max started his sessions with Rachel. We began OT on the recommendation of a speech therapist, as Max was so dysregulated he couldn’t gain anything from speech therapy at the time.

From Max’s very first session in our home, there was an instant improvement in how he could regulate himself. When anyone asks how OT has helped Max, all I can say is that Rachel is an absolute angel who has changed our lives. All autistic children need a Rachel in their lives. I’m just so glad we found her so early.”

Ada, aged 5

“Everything we learn while at OT becomes an integral part of our family life. OT helps us connect with our daughter through play and understand her ever-changing sensory needs.”

Luke, aged 9

“Luke loves his OT sessions with Rachel. It’s improved his anxiety, writing skills, fine motor skills and independence, the list is endless, all through fun and play. He loved all the physical activities you did with him and he always felt so calm and clear in his mind afterwards. As a parent, I really saw the benefit of OT for Luke. It gave him and us practical tips for approaching new or challenging situations.

He is now able to think more strategically instead of getting overwhelmed and upset. I gained insight into the physical exercises Luke can do and how much he benefits from them, both mentally and physically. I loved that you could understand how Luke’s mind and body work, and how you tailored each session to his needs.”

Roan, aged 4

“Occupational Therapy has changed my son’s life. When we first saw Rachel, Roan was completely non-verbal with little or no eye contact. Rachel’s dedication and patience, helping and guiding Roan, has made him a completely different boy today. The road can be challenging and tiring, but with Rachel’s advice, tips, commitment and support, OT has been vital to us.”

Hugo, aged 5

“OT sessions were the greatest gift for Hugo and me. As a parent, they helped me connect better with him and understand how he sees the world. I gained tools and ideas on how to help him.

For Hugo, OT has given him great confidence. It has been lovely to see the bond with Rachel, his OT, develop. He knows she understands him and accepts him exactly as he is.

We feel so lucky to have access to such great care.”

Andie, aged 9

“Rachel has helped Andie’s life immeasurably. She loves her sessions and always leaves feeling so regulated. The connection and trust between Andie and her OT is so strong, and she feels safe being her true self. On a practical level, she has gained many life skills and now navigates whatever may come up in her life in a secure way.

We appreciate you so much!”

Ada, aged 4

“As this was our first experience of OT, we were unsure of what it entailed or what the benefits might be. We can’t believe how lucky we are to have Rachel as our daughter Ada’s OT. The difference in Ada in such a short amount of time has been amazing. Rachel has worked with Ada on sharing, taking turns, waiting, following instructions and not always ‘bossing play’, amongst many other things. Ada has really embraced Rachel and her methods, and it feels like having a different child. She absolutely loves going to ‘play with Rachel’, as she says. Ada’s big emotions and tantrums have reduced to nearly none. She is now expressing her feelings rather than ‘showing’ them, which has made her a much happier child and our home a much more relaxed place.

 

After our initial OT assessment, Rachel gave us a detailed report with simple yet effective changes for home and school. These helped Ada start Junior Infants with absolutely no difficulty, as her school took everything on board. The relief we felt after meeting with her teacher, hearing how well Ada was adapting, cannot be put into words.

 

We couldn’t have imagined a few months ago the impact Rachel’s OT sessions would have on Ada, her wellbeing, her happiness and her confidence. We look forward to Rachel’s positive influence in Ada’s life for a long time to come.”

Liam, aged 6

“OT has been an integral part of Liam’s development. Before OT he was non-verbal, flighty, had poor fine motor skills and showed little ability to communicate or engage with his family or peers.

We didn’t know what OT really was or the huge changes it would bring to our son.

Rachel has been the strongest foundation in his development. She educated and reassured us as parents so we could understand the nervous system, how it affects communication, and the steps Liam needs to take.

His confidence, coordination, interactions and fine motor skills are all improving.

Rachel has built an incredible relationship with Liam and he always looks forward to seeing her.”

Tadhg, aged 4

“Occupational Therapy focuses on Tadhg’s wellbeing and helps him participate in activities he enjoys. It allows him to open up as it creates a safe environment for him to develop everyday skills.

Rachel has given Tadhg a safe space to relax and learn to engage with people other than a family member, which has helped his social skills. OT has changed our family dynamic as we have embraced the practices into our lives. It’s a source of joy for Tadhg where he can relax, feel regulated and most importantly be himself.”