Supporting Individuals with Disabilities and Their Families

Carmel is dedicated to providing individualised, practical strategies that not only address immediate challenges but also build long-term resilience and independence. Whether working with families of young children or adults with disabilities, Carmel’s approach fosters. Confidence, connection, and a sense of empowerment, enabling individuals to navigate challenges with growing independence and resilience.

Early intervention is crucial for children with significant developmental delays. Carmel has extensive experience working with families of young children diagnosed with Autism, Down Syndrome, Chromosomal Abnormalities, Genetic Disorders, or those with no formal diagnosis. Her compassionate and tailored approach ensures that each child and their family receive the support they need to thrive.

Carmel spent over a decade working as a psychologist with the Family and Early Childhood Services (FECS) Team at Disability Services before transitioning to the NDIS space in 2018. Since then, she has provided specialised care to families and individuals with a broad range of needs, from children with developmental disabilities to adults with disabilities working toward their NDIS goals.

Children and adults with disabilities often face additional challenges, such as frequent medical and allied health appointments, financial pressures, and demands on time. These challenges can place stress on families, often leaving less time for self-care or focusing on broader goals. Carmel’s role is to assist families and individuals navigate these complexities with tailored strategies and support.

Carmel is trained in Circle of Security Parenting, Tuning into Kids, Ross Greene’s Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) and DIR / Floortime principles. Her approach is grounded in attachment theory, neuroscience, and is both trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming. With compassion and evidence-based methods, Carmel empowers individuals and families to build skills, foster confidence, and celebrate their unique strengths.

Focus Areas Carmel works with families and individuals to address a wide variety of needs, including:

• Emotional regulation and behavioural challenges: Supporting children and adults in managing emotions and reducing behaviours that interfere with daily life.
• Building capacity for independence: Developing essential daily living skills such as sleeping, eating, toileting, and personal care to promote autonomy.
• Working toward NDIS goals: Supporting participants to achieve capacity-building goals, such as developing social skills, engaging in the community, and building life skills.
• Navigating life transitions: Providing strategies for changes like starting school, entering the workforce, or moving into independent living.
• Advocating for support: Helping families and individuals access the services, resources, and therapies needed to meet their goals.
• Balancing family dynamics: Supporting families in managing the needs of all members, including siblings, and fostering harmony in the home.
• Enhancing social and communication skills: Helping children and adults build meaningful relationships and navigate social interactions.
• Managing sensory sensitivities: Addressing challenges related to environments, sounds, and textures that may feel overwhelming.
• Parental and caregiver support: Helping parents and caregivers manage stress, reduce self-doubt, and prioritize their own well-being.

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