With a passion for helping individuals maintain or regain independence and improve their quality of life, and a holistic approach to well being, Tessa is a dedicated occupational therapist with a deep desire to support those living in her local community to live their best lives.
Tessa was born and completed her schooling on Kangaroo Island, and now continues to work, play and raise her family in this stunning location.
Tessa has extensive experience and skills in working across a wide variety of funding steams and adult client demographics including disability support services, pre and post operative or acute care, chronic condition management, Veteran care, and aged care. She is confident working across various settings –community, residential aged care, acute/in-patient, and across numerous programs – NDIS, HCP, DVA, Private, RIBS.
Committed to evidence-based practice, Tessa integrates innovative strategies and assistive technologies to support individuals with diverse needs, including those recovering from stroke or other acute events, managing disabilities and chronic conditions, managing falls risks, or adapting to daily living challenges. With a client-centred approach, Tessa fosters dignity, trust, empowerment, resilience, resourcefulness, and meaningful engagement in everyday activities. She thrives in offering a personal and thorough assessment of needs and goals, and enjoys problem-solving to find the unique fit to meet each individuals needs and goals. She always endeavours to work with her clients, and the important people in their lives, in a partnership to allow best outcomes.
Tessa joined the ActivOT team in 2021 to offer and provide comprehensive occupational therapy community-based care and services to residents of Kangaroo Island and the Fleurieu Peninsula. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development to be able to stay up to date with the latest research, best practice and advancements enabling her to continue to provide a high quality service to her local community.
When not working, Tessa enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, beach walking, running and gardening. She also enjoys her volunteer roles with Kangaroo Island parkrun and Westen Districts Sports Club, cooking and baking, reading, as well as spending quality time with her family.
