Nerida Polkinghorne (B. App Sc OT)

ActivOT Bowden

Nerida Polkinghorne, ActivOT Bowden

Nerida Polkinghorne is an Occupational Therapist and the owner of ActivOT Bowden in South Australia. She earned her Bachelor of Applied Science – Occupational Therapy from The University of South Australia in 2009 and has been practicing as an OT since 2010.


With experience across acute, community, and tertiary settings, she has worked with diverse clients and conditions, including Autism, ADHD, Intellectual Disability, Dementia, Cancer and Palliative Care, Orthopaedics, Geriatrics, Cardiology, and General and Specialty Medicine, and is experienced in working with clients with multiple and complex needs.


She is a neuro-affirming therapist with lived experience, taking a strengths-based and individualised approach in her practice. Nerida is dedicated to client-centred care, taking the time to understand her clients and their support networks to achieve the best possible outcomes. She values collaboration and personalised interventions to enhance functional engagement.


Her skills include:

  • Functional Capacity Assessment Report Writing
  • Assistive Technology scripting
  • Home Assessments and Modifications
  • Sensory Profiling
  • Sensory Regulation Strategies
  • Goal Directed Therapy Program Implementation and Review
  • Cognitive Assessments
  • Aged Care Assessments
  • Supporting OT students during Clinical Placements


Outside of work, she enjoys reading, spending time with her husband and two young children, and caring for her two small dogs. She has a passion for Pilates, coffee, music, and travel. She also has a strong interest in mindfulness and meditation, recognising their positive impact on daily life.


CONTACT

PO Box 194, Brompton SA 5007
P: 0421 927 226 | 1800 228 868
F: 08 8344 1559
E: nerida@activot.com.au