Rachel Bell
Occupational Therapist
"I love seeing a child discover what makes them unique and special. I think I’m so lucky to be able share that experience with children”
Qualifications and Experience
Rachel graduated from the University of Newcastle with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy with Honours. Rachel has completed a range of clinical placements and volunteer experiences in paediatrics including Sense Rugby and Camp Jabiru. Additionally, through university Rachel worked as a support worker and therapy assistant where she assisted children with varying abilities and conditions to engage in their everyday activities and implement Therapeutic supports in their daily lives.
Rachel has completed the following courses:
- An Introduction to DIR® and DIRFloortime
- The Learn Play Thrive Approach to Autism (Strengths Based Approach)
- Occupational Therapy Exchange 2022
- From Reflex to Response- Primitive Reflexes
- 5 hour workshop on Rhythm and Movement for Regulation
- Succeeding with Teens- Attwood and Garnett Events
- Best Practices for Implementing Interoception- Based Supports (Kelly Mahler)
- Building New Pathways- Supporting Children and Adolescents who have experienced developmental trauma
- Working Collaboratively with Parents in Early Intervention
Professional Interests
Rachel has a passion for working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and providing intervention that enables them to live their life to their greatest potential.
Rachel believes in providing intervention that is individualised to each child and family and is based on their own unique strengths and interests.
Creative Skills
Rachel is a talented and passionate artist who loves experimenting with different materials such as paint, pencil, watercolour, oil and charcoal. Rachel has been commissioned for several portraits and has also been involved in a number of public wall murals.
Throughout university, Rachel taught and assisted in providing art classes to children aged 3-15 years, including children on the Autism Spectrum Disorder. Rachel believes art is a wonderful visual learning tool, helping children navigate the world in a visual way. Additionally, it can be used to improve motor control, practise problem solving, develop mindfulness, learn about the self, engage different senses and express emotion.
Rachel attended the Conservatorium of Music as a child where through exploration of different instruments she discovered her love for the piano. Rachel continues to practice piano in addition to learning the ukulele. Rachel greatly enjoys using music in sessions for engagement, attention and improving fine motor skills.
Rachel also has a black belt in shotokan karate and has experience as an assistant teacher, helping others to use martial arts to practise mindfulness, self control and self confidence.