Who we are

An Australian Olympian & Rugby Union player and now Co-Founder of Sense Team Sports & Sense Therapies.​​​​​​​​​

Jesse has an impressive on-field resume, one that deserves high commendation. Starting with rugby league as a kid in Sydney’s west, Jesse moved to Canberra at 18 to join the Brumbies academy. Scouted by Michael O'Connor he soon became a regular fixture in the Australian Rugby Sevens Team and spent 10 years helping the game transform into the amazing spectacle it is today. This journey took him around the world and led him to two Commonwealth Games, one as captain & one winning a Bronze medal. He played in two World Cups and the Rio Olympics in 2016.

“Rugby is a beautiful game, and many aspects of our sport seem to align with Carlien's therapy approach: you're on all fours and wrestling, activating your inner core, which helps settle the nervous system, and there's plenty of running. It's a great way to get kids the sensory input they often crave in a positive way.”

Jesse leads Sense Team Sports in Woonona, NSW, and runs Sense Therapies alongside his wife, Carlien.

Carlien is the Founder of Sense Therapies & the Sense Team Sports Programs and has been a Paediatric Occupational Therapist for over 10 years.

She has significant experience in helping parents and children understand more about Sensory Processing Disorders/difficulties, delays in gross motor or fine motor skill development, Autism, Social-emotional difficulties, ADHD, Trauma and many more. She is passionate about assisting parents with building safety and connection into their family unit. She uses a child-led approach and focuses on helping families understand their child’s individual sensory, emotional and physical differences in order to best support a child to thrive.

As the Founder of Sense Team Sports. Carlien has a special interest in sport and its many uses; particularly as a therapy tool to improve social skills, emotional regulation, coordination, Sensory Processing and a sense of community. Carlien leads the clinical team who deliver Sense Rugby across Australia and New Zealand and is considered a leader in inclusive sport.

Her empathetic, playful nature and knowledge in child development has helped hundreds of children become more successful at their daily activities.

Jarrod graduated from the University of the Sunshine Coast with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours). While in high school, a work experience placement at a local private paediatric OT clinic (by chance!) sparked his passion to support others in engaging in meaningful occupations.

Jarrod has experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, neurological disorders, physical disabilities, and developmental delays. He has worked across a range of paediatric OT settings, including community, education, and private clinics. Jarrod is a certified DIR Floortime practitioner.

A big kid at heart, Jarrod loves supporting children and their families to learn and develop through play.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

I grew up in Airlie Beach and Mackay in North Queensland. I love spending time with my family, going fishing, playing on the beach, bushwalking, watching the footy, and exploring new places.

Your background and your why…

I had no idea what I wanted to do in school. In Year 12, we had to do work experience, and I asked to do a placement at a speech therapy clinic because it sounded interesting. The coordinator couldn't find me a place, but her cousin owned a private paediatric OT clinic and offered to see if she could get me in there. I ended up doing my placement there and absolutely loved every second of it. That's what made me decide to become an occupational therapist and work with kids.

Four years later, I was on my final 10-week placement at the Mackay Base Hospital, and the head of the OT paediatric department was the clinic owner from my work experience. Full circle moment!

What experience and certifications do you have?

Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Hons)

Floortime Introduction (101)

Floortime Basic Certificate (201)

Traffic Jam in My Brain (professional development)

Zones of Regulation course (professional development)

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

The amazing team, our community and play.

Cassie is a dedicated Paediatric Occupational Therapist with a passion for supporting neurodivergent children and teens. She brings a warm and collaborative approach to her work, building strong relationships with families and empowering children to reach their full potential.

Your background and your why…

Cassie graduated from Western Sydney University with a Bachelor of Health Science/Master of Occupational Therapy. Her passion for paediatrics grew after completing clinical placements as an occupational therapy student. During her studies, she worked as a teacher's aide in a high school setting, gaining valuable experience supporting children in an educational environment. She also volunteered as a carer for Muscular Dystrophy NSW and attended their camps over the years, further solidifying her commitment to working with children and young people with diverse needs.

Cassie loves working with neurodivergent children and teens, people with sensory processing challenges, developmental delays, and motor difficulties. She has a special interest in working with girls within this field.

What experience and certifications do you have?

Bachelor of Health Science

Master of Occupational Therapy

Certified DIR Floortime Practitioner

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

Cassie is passionate about building strong therapeutic relationships with kids and their families and finding the best ways to support them. She enjoys working through a DIR (Developmental, Individual difference & Relationship-based model) lens.

Cassie grew up playing competitive netball and touch football and still enjoys playing team sports. She loves the benefits of movement and getting outdoors and incorporating that into her therapy.

Leonie graduated from Western Sydney University with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy and discovered her passion for paediatrics during her university placements. She has experience supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Pathological Demand Avoidance Profiles (PDA), cerebral palsy, developmental delays, and intellectual disabilities and chromosomal disorders.
Leonie has a special interest in supporting neurodivergent children and children with diverse sensory processing and motor coordination experiences. She takes a child-centred, strengths-based and play-based approach, recognising and celebrating each child’s unique interests, strengths and individual ways of experiencing, learning about and engaging with the world. By following each child’s lead and building on what naturally motivates them, Leonie creates meaningful opportunities for connection, exploration, learning and development through play.
Leonie believes that meaningful connections are at the heart of successful therapy. She takes the time to understand each child and what motivates them, using play and their individual interests to support learning, development and participation in everyday life. She also values working collaboratively with families, educators and other health professionals to support each child reach their potential in a way that feels meaningful to them and their family.
Passionate about lifelong learning, Leonie continually develops her skills and knowledge to provide evidence informed, individualised support that helps children and their families achieve meaningful outcomes.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…
Leonie grew up in the Sutherland Shire in a large family and brings a diverse range of life and work experiences to her role as an Occupational Therapist. Before entering the profession, she worked across several industries, including hospitality, fitness, travel and production coordination.
As a mum herself, Leonie understands the importance of seeing each child within the context of their family, relationships and everyday experiences. She values getting to know the whole child and recognising the little things that make them unique.
Outside of work, Leonie loves being outdoors and making the most of an adventure. You’ll often find her hiking, surfing, swimming or snowboarding. She also enjoys travelling and exploring new places.

Your background and your why…
Leonie discovered Occupational Therapy later in life while exploring a career change that combined her interest in health with opportunities to work in communities outside major cities. Initially drawn to physiotherapy, she discovered Occupational Therapy and quickly realised it was a better fit for her interests, strengths and values.
Throughout her degree, Leonie was particularly drawn to paediatrics. She loved the opportunity to combine her playful nature with her fascination for early childhood development and the incredible ways children learn, grow and develop new skills.
Since graduating, Leonie has worked exclusively in paediatrics, supporting children and families across a range of developmental needs. Her university placements also provided valuable experience in aged care, rehabilitation and mental health, broadening her understanding of the many ways Occupational Therapy can support people throughout their lives.
What continues to inspire Leonie about working with children is the opportunity to build genuine connections, follow their interests and celebrate progress in all its forms. She believes therapy is most meaningful when children feel understood, supported and confident to explore, learn and be themselves.

What experience and certifications do you have?
Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

I have also completed the following certifications and training:
• DIR101: Introduction to Floortime
• DIR 201: Promoting Basic Functional Emotional Development!
• Building Effective Executive Function Skills with a Sensory-Motor Developmental approach
• Essentials of Sensory Integration Intervention:
• Part One - Intervention for Sensory Modulation and Discrimination Problems
• Essentials of Sensory Integration Assessment:
- Part One - Clinical Assessment of Sensory Integration in Diverse Environments
- Part Two - Assessment of Foundational Mechanisms and Praxis
• Becoming a behavioural detective - Understanding and Supporting Complex Behaviour with Leaps and Bounds
• Traffic Jam In My Brain
• Autistic Girls & Women with Autism
• Teaching self-regulation to kids workshop
• Using Gravity to Facilitate Sensory Motor Development in Infants and Children
• Assessment and Integration of Primitive Reflexes

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?
My favourite part about working at Sense is the fantastic team, the amazing resources and spaces we have, and, of course, the wonderful children and families I get to work with!
I love being part of a team that values connection, creativity and individualised support, and having the opportunity to make therapy engaging, meaningful and fun for the children we work with.

Haylee is a dedicated Paediatric Occupational Therapist passionate about empowering children to reach their full potential. She combines her love of working with kids with a strong commitment to inclusion, creating opportunities for all children to thrive.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

I’m a country girl at heart with a passion for being outdoors and amongst nature. I love exploring new places, spending time at the beach, surfing, playing football, and socialising with friends and family.

Your background and your why…

Ever since I started working, I’ve worked with kids. I began as a dance teacher and then worked with the National Rugby League in their development program, throughout school and university. So, I always knew I wanted to work with kids. I am also very passionate about inclusion and giving children the opportunity to be involved and enjoy life and others around them. So, I guess when you mix these two passions together, you get a paediatric OT!

What experience and certifications do you have?

My paediatric experience began during my university degree with placements at John Hunter and Sydney Children’s Hospitals in the neurology wards. After graduating in 2017, I started working in the private paediatric space, primarily in sensory integration and with children with ASD, ADHD, and developmental delays. During this time, I trained in the DIR Floortime approach.

After pursuing my passion for helping children with physical disabilities, I began developing my training and knowledge in neurodevelopmental treatments and moved into intensive and weekly therapy programs. Over the past two years, I worked within a world-renowned paediatric practice in Sydney, treating children with complex neurological conditions from all over Australia and abroad. I am certified in the Therasuit Method and a certified Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) therapist. I also have experience in equipment prescription, particularly with seating (wheelchairs and activity chairs) and postural support garments. My approach to therapy is very hands-on and function-driven to assist children with reaching developmental milestones while also supporting their posture, positioning, and sensory systems.

Advance Seating Assessment and Prescription for basic and complex Equipment Prescription.

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

I love being part of such a fun, caring, and supportive team. It’s a great balance between work and fun!

Brooke is a passionate Paediatric Occupational Therapist dedicated to helping children thrive. She brings a warm and enthusiastic approach to her work, supporting children and families to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

I grew up in a rural coastal town on the far south coast before moving to Newcastle to study. This is where my love for the beach began. Having recently found my way down to Wollongong, I spend most of my time either swimming, surfing, or catching up with my friends and trying to find new coffee shops or hikes with a nice view!

Your background and your why…

I always knew I wanted to be in healthcare, helping people, and loved the idea of learning neuroanatomy and discovering why we function the way we do. After school, I worked as a PE teacher's assistant and loved the idea of working with kids to help them achieve something, either individually or as a group. This experience solidified my desire to work with children and led me to pursue Occupational Therapy.

What experience and certifications do you have?

Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours)

I have also completed the following certifications and training:

DIR101 Introduction to Floortime

Traffic Jam In My Brain

Understanding and Promoting Visual-Vestibular Integration in Praxis

Assessment and Intervention of Primitive Reflexes

I am also qualified to administer the Evaluation in Ayres Sensory Integration (EASI) assessment

I also worked as a paediatric OT Assistant throughout University where I completed professional development on Trauma informed care and supporting children with Pathological Demand Avoidance.

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

Being able to see children and their families make big gains in and out of the clinic. Also, having fun! The clinic facilities are just as fun for us adults as they are for the kids.

Shelby is a Paediatric Occupational Therapist who loves supporting children to feel understood, connected and confident in their everyday lives. She brings a warm, curious and playful approach to therapy and is passionate about getting to know each child for who they are, recognising their individual strengths and interests. She loves finding creative ways to support children's development through play and connection whilst building a strong connection with their families.

Your background and why....
I grew up on the South Coast of NSW and have always loved working with children. I found Occupational Therapy through my year 10 student placement and I loved being able to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. Paediatric Occupational Therapy was the perfect opportunity for me to be able to support children as they grow, play, learn and discover their strengths. It is so great seeing kids be able to do the things that are purposeful and meaningful to them. I love seeing the joy and sense of achievement on their faces.

What experience and certifications do you have?
I studied a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy.
In addition to this, I have also completed the following professional development and certifications:
- Traffic Jam in My Brain Course
- ICDL DIR Floortime 101
- LEGO® Based Therapy Facilitator Certification
- Alert Program®
- Learn to Play Therapy - Part 1: Foundation Course
- SenseUp Masterclasses and Sensory in Action Workshops
- Currently completing: CLASI Ayres Sensory Integration course.

Meet Josie - Paediatric Occupational Therapist:
Josie is a passionate Paediatric Occupational Therapist who is deeply committed to inclusion, neuroaffirming practice, and empowering children to be authentically themselves. She believes every child has their own unique strengths, interests, and ways of experiencing the world, and loves helping children and their families discover, understand, and celebrate what makes them who they are.

Josie brings a warm, playful, and supportive approach to therapy, drawing on child-led, interest-based, and play-based approaches, alongside DIR® and trauma-informed principles. She is passionate about building meaningful connections with children, entering their world, and creating a safe and supportive space where they feel understood, valued, and empowered to explore their interests, develop skills, and work towards their goals. Josie loves working alongside the incredible children and families she meets, supporting them through different stages of life and celebrating each child's unique journey.

A little about Josie :
Originally from the country town of Cowra, NSW, Josie grew up with three brothers, where being active, involved in sport ( and eating lots) was a big part of life. She spent many years as a competitive swimmer and continues to love being active and enjoying the outdoors. Her favourite place to be? In the ocean, enjoying a swim at the beach! Outside of work, you'll often find Josie at the beach, enjoying a good brunch, or spending time with family and friends.

Josie moved to Wollongong and joined the team at Sense Therapies in 2024 after completing her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy and spending a couple of years working in Canberra's public hospital system. Through her experience across acute and rehabilitation settings, including neurology and stroke rehabilitation, Josie developed a strong interest in understanding the brain, neurology, and how we can use teh understadning of neuroscience to support people with all different and unique brains.

Josie's OT journey:
Josie's passion for working with children began during a gap year after school, when she worked as a teacher's aide at a school supporting children with diverse abilities. It was here that she first discovered the world of Occupational Therapy and saw the incredible ways OTs use play, connection, and meaningful activities to support children's development and participation in everyday life.

This experience sparked a passion that continued to grow throughout university and her early career. Josie loves that Occupational Therapy looks beyond a person's challenges to understand who they are, what matters to them, and how to support them to participate in the things that bring meaning and joy to their lives.

Her experience trhoughout univeristy includes working as a therapy assistant in a ACT paediatric OT clinic, supporting inclusive sport through Abilities Unlimited's Sports for All Abilities program, and working as a swim teacher. Josie during her studies was also the recipient of the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Gabby Robberds Memorial Scholarship and completed an 8 week placement at CPA ACT gaining experience and learning from an amazing Allied Health Multidisciplinary Team.

Josie's OT training and experience:
Josie holds a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy and has experience working across pediatrics (both private and public health settings) and the hopsital based neurology, stroke rehabilitation, orthopedics settings. In her time working at Sense Therpaies Josie has completed ongoing professional development and training including completing DIR® 101, Kim Barthel’s Trauma-Informed Practice course, Traffic Jam in the Brain training focused on sensory processing and modulation, and Children and Adolescent Mental Health First Aid. She has also completed upper limb neurological training through the Stroke Education Foundation and other training during her time working in the hospital system including basic equipment prescription and 24 hour postural support training,

Josie's favourite part about working at Sense Therapies:
For Josie, one of the most rewarding parts of working at Sense is watching children's confidence grow as they discover more about themselves and what they can do. She loves building trusting relationships with children and their families, creating a sense of safety and connection where children feel understood, supported, and valued for who they are.

Josie particularly loves that the environment at Sense Therapies allows children to be authentically themselves, explore their interests, and engage in ways that feel meaningful to them. Being part of a team that celebrates each child's individuality, supports their growth, and creates opportunities for connection, confidence, and joy is what makes her work feel so special.

Emmi is an enthusiastic Paediatric Occupational Therapist who brings a love of movement, play, and connection to her work with children and families. She's passionate about helping children achieve their goals and enjoys creating a fun and supportive therapeutic environment.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…
I’m a very active and outdoorsy person who loves keeping busy. I enjoy playing and watching sport, going for walks, spending time at the beach and being outdoors whenever I can. The beach is definitely my happy place! I also love catching up with friends over a coffee, travelling and exploring new places.

Your background and your why…
I’ve always loved working with children and wanted a career where I could make a difference in their everyday lives. I chose Occupational Therapy because I love being active, creative and hands-on, and I enjoy finding different ways to help children build their skills and confidence.

What experience and certifications do you have?
I hold a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy and have completed further training in DIR Floortime 101, Trauma-Informed Practice, and Traffic Jam in My Brain. I am currently completing my Ayres Sensory Integration qualification to further develop my skills in supporting children with sensory processing and participation.

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?
I love that Sense creates a fun and welcoming environment for children and families. I wanted to be part of a team where I could learn from other therapists, share ideas and provide therapy that feels positive and enjoyable for the children I work with.

Melika is a passionate Paediatric Occupational Therapist who brings a love of sports, an active lifestyle, and a strong commitment to helping children thrive to her work at Sense Therapies.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

Growing up in the small country town of Temora, I was surrounded by a close-knit family, including three younger siblings and many cousins, which sparked my love for working with kids. My passion for sports and an active lifestyle began early, leading me to study Exercise Science and later Occupational Therapy. Moving to Wollongong, I quickly fell in love with the lifestyle and beautiful beaches. In my free time, I enjoy exploring, discovering hidden waterfalls and rock pools, paddleboarding, going to the gym, and cooking new recipes!

Your background and your why…

I've always enjoyed being around kids, teaching my siblings new skills, and playing fun activities and games growing up. It was through these experiences that I discovered my passion for helping children develop and reach their full potential. This, combined with my interest in health and wellbeing, led me to pursue a career in Occupational Therapy.

What experience and certifications do you have?

Bachelor of Exercise Science
Master of Occupational Therapy
Youth Mental Health First Aid
DIR Floortime 101
Traffic Jam in my Brain

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

Every day I get to see kids learn and grow, which is incredibly rewarding! Watching the positive impact that OTs have on children's lives and seeing them thrive makes my job so fulfilling and FUN! I love the supportive environment and community that Sense has created.

Tilly is an Occupational Therapist who brings a warm, inclusive approach to her practice. Originally from Griffith, she is passionate about creating spaces where children can be their authentic selves while gaining the skills and confidence they need to succeed in their everyday lives.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

My name is Tilly and I grew up in a country town called Griffith with my three younger siblings. I have always had a strong belief in accepting people as they are and ensuring that they feel important and valued. I love that OT creates spaces for people to be their authentic selves, while supporting them to be successful in their day-to-day lives. In my spare time, my favorite way to spend the day is being around my friends and family—ideally at the beach!

Your background and your why…

I always knew that I would work with children; for a long time, I thought I might follow in my mum's footsteps and become a primary school teacher. When I was about 15, a family friend suggested I would make a great paediatric OT. Once I looked into it, I realized it was the perfect path for me! I love the holistic nature of occupational therapy and the real, lasting impact we can make in the lives of children and their families.

What experience and certifications do you have?

Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy (Charles Sturt University, Albury).

Over 7 years of experience as a swim instructor, helping children thrive in aquatic environments while growing their confidence.

Specialised in paediatric support and holistic family-centered care.

How long have you been working at Sense?

I’m a proud member of the Sense Therapies team! I heard about the clinic through a colleague who absolutely loved the work, the people, and the families here, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. I joined Sense in January 2026.

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

It’s definitely the people—the children, the families, and my wonderful colleagues. I feel so excited and happy to come to work each day, knowing I am in an environment that supports me to be the best therapist I can be. I am so grateful to be a part of such a fabulous team.

Alexandra is a passionate Occupational Therapist who believes in empowering others to be their most authentic selves. With a background as a premier league netball captain and a deep curiosity for how the body works, she combines her clinical expertise with a love for movement and team-based joy.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

I am a passionate person who enjoys meeting people, understanding their unique stories, and empowering others. I love to have a good chat and enjoy getting to know each person as an individual. I’m also a very passionate sports player—I played and captained premier league netball for many years and thoroughly love the joy and passion that sport can bring to individuals and teams. When I’m not at work, you’ll find me trying to learn how to sew, going for bush walks, or spending time painting and drawing.

Your background and your why…

I have always been curious about health and the body. After completing an undergraduate degree in Pre-Medicine, I began working in aged care, where I saw the true importance of connection and listening. This shifted my focus from medicine to allied health—I felt like OT was the career that truly gave me the opportunity to understand and help people achieve what they wanted in life. After completing my Masters, I discovered a real passion for paediatrics, which perfectly aligned with my decade of experience coaching young netball players.

What experience and certifications do you have?

Bachelor of Pre-Medicine, Science and Health (Distinction)

Master of Occupational Therapy (Distinction)

Qualified Mental Health First Aider

Advanced training in co-regulation strategies, trauma-sensitive practice, and sensory modulation.

Extensive experience in the disability sector supporting neurodivergence (ASD, ADHD, ODD) and developmental disabilities.

Over 10 years of experience in netball coaching and clinics for children ages 4–16.

How long have you been working at Sense?

I have just recently joined the Sense Therapies team in January 2026!

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

The models of practice here are heavily evidence-based and neuro-affirming. I love that the approach emphasizes the strengths of play and individualism, enabling children to understand their own bodies and learn how to advocate for their own needs. It feels wonderful to work in a place where my professional values and my personal passion for sport and groups align so perfectly.

Carmel is our true Jill-of-all-Trades, bringing a diverse skill set to the team.

A creative soul and a lover of the outdoors, Carmel strongly believes in the healing properties of art and nature and their therapeutic benefits. She combines her patient, easy-going nature and youthful energy with these passions to help neurodivergent children achieve their goals and become their best selves. Carmel has competed in women’s long boarding at both professional and amateur levels and is a qualified local surf coach, having delivered inclusive youth Learn to Surf and Ocean Safety programs throughout the Illawarra

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

I come from a big family and grew up in Wombarra, going to Mt Michael's in Thirroul. Even though I am just a big kid at heart, & the oldest member of the team. Being creative fills my cup. The ocean is my happy place and sunrise surfs are my favourite! I have a four-legged best mate called Scooby and love off-grid camping.

Your background and your why…

Carmel’s background in teaching evolved into nannying, which allowed her to step out of a “one size fits all” approach to provide more individualised, person-centred care and to focus on her artist residency and exhibitions. She has over 15 years of combined experience in teaching, disability support work, and supporting young families and neurodivergent children and believes every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and understood just as they are! Art & nature are her greatest passions, and these flow through all aspects of her life so to be able to share their therapeutic benefits to help others is truly special.

What experience and certifications do you have?

Bachelor of Education (ECE)

Diploma of Art Therapy

Becoming a Behavioural Detective: Understanding and Supporting Complex Behaviour- Kim Barthel

Essential knowledge when caring for/or supporting Autistic Kids- NeuroWild

Traffic Jam In My Brain- Genevieve Jereb

ASI Qualified Surf Instructor

Autism Informed Coaches X Surfing the Spectrum

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

Being a part of a fun, collaborative team who are constantly evolving and growing alongside our kids and their families to change the idea of what therapy looks like.

Bronte is passionate about working with children, a passion that developed from an early age.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

I am originally from Bathurst, but I moved to Wollongong in 2019 to study where I did Exercise Science at UOW followed by a Masters in Speech Pathology through University of Canberra. I currently live in Wollongong with my partner Jack and we love living by the beach!

Your background and your why?

I have just always loved children! As the eldest of 4 siblings and the oldest of 24 cousins, caring for little ones has been a part of my life from an early age. Every year, my grandparents would take all of us grandchildren on a week-long holiday they called "Kids Week," giving our parents a well-earned break. With so many babies and young children around, I was often helping out and caring for them and I absolutely loved it. These early experiences sparked my passion for working with children, though I knew teaching wasn’t the right fit for me. I initially pursued a degree in Exercise Science with the intention of becoming a physiotherapist, but I soon realised it wasn’t where my heart was. It wasn’t until I did work experience at a speech pathology clinic that everything clicked—I knew I had found my calling. Throughout my studies, I worked as a nanny, which brought me so much joy and reaffirmed my passion for supporting children and their families. I developed a special fondness for caring for twins, and I continue to cherish the unique bonds I build through this work.

What experience and certifications do you have?

Bachelor of Exercise Science

Master of Speech Pathology

LAMP AAC training (professional development)

Sounds Write Literacy program (professional development)

Key Word Sign workshop (professional development)

How long have you been working at Sense?

I have just started (April 2025)

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

Everything! Working at Sense is truly amazing. What makes it so special is the incredible team I get to work with every day, the strong values we all share, and the supportive, inclusive community that defines our culture. I also love being able to support our amazing families that walk through the door each day and watching our little people learn & grow. I feel so privileged to be on this journey with them and am very grateful that I can play a small part in their lives, it really does bring me so much joy :)

An Australian Olympian & Rugby Union player and now Co-Founder of Sense Team Sports & Sense Therapies.​​​​​​​​​

Jesse has an impressive on-field resume, one that deserves high commendation. Starting with rugby league as a kid in Sydney’s west, Jesse moved to Canberra at 18 to join the Brumbies academy. Scouted by Michael O'Connor he soon became a regular fixture in the Australian Rugby Sevens Team and spent 10 years helping the game transform into the amazing spectacle it is today. This journey took him around the world and led him to two Commonwealth Games, one as captain & one winning a Bronze medal. He played in two World Cups and the Rio Olympics in 2016.

“Rugby is a beautiful game, and many aspects of our sport seem to align with Carlien's therapy approach: you're on all fours and wrestling, activating your inner core, which helps settle the nervous system, and there's plenty of running. It's a great way to get kids the sensory input they often crave in a positive way.”

Jesse leads Sense Team Sports in Woonona, NSW, and runs Sense Therapies alongside his wife, Carlien.

Carlien is the Founder of Sense Therapies & the Sense Team Sports Programs and has been a Paediatric Occupational Therapist for over 10 years.

She has significant experience in helping parents and children understand more about Sensory Processing Disorders/difficulties, delays in gross motor or fine motor skill development, Autism, Social-emotional difficulties, ADHD, Trauma and many more. She is passionate about assisting parents with building safety and connection into their family unit. She uses a child-led approach and focuses on helping families understand their child’s individual sensory, emotional and physical differences in order to best support a child to thrive.

As the Founder of Sense Team Sports. Carlien has a special interest in sport and its many uses; particularly as a therapy tool to improve social skills, emotional regulation, coordination, Sensory Processing and a sense of community. Carlien leads the clinical team who deliver Sense Rugby across Australia and New Zealand and is considered a leader in inclusive sport.

Her empathetic, playful nature and knowledge in child development has helped hundreds of children become more successful at their daily activities.

Cherie is a "lover of life" who brings over 25 years of organisational expertise and deep empathy to the Sense Therapies team. She is passionate about creating positive environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and genuinely supported.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

I’m a believer in making the most of every moment and creating a positive atmosphere for the people around me. I enjoy starting my day early, staying active, and appreciating the simple things—especially a good sunrise or sunset! Above all, my greatest joy is my family. I absolutely adore my husband and our two daughters; they are my world. When I'm not at work, you'll find me at the beach, in the countryside, camping, enjoying good food, and sharing plenty of laughs.

Your background and your why…

I grew up working in my parents' small business, which gave me an early appreciation for the hard work that happens behind the scenes. From a young age, I’ve always wanted people to leave an interaction with me feeling happier and more supported. I later spent over 25 years working as a personal assistant across a range of organisations, developing strong organisational and people skills.

Supporting one of my daughters with inattentive ADHD has also deeply shaped my perspective. It reinforced for me the importance of creating safe, supportive environments where people feel understood and encouraged to believe in themselves.

What experience and certifications do you have?

- Over 25 years of experience as a Personal Assistant across diverse industries.

- Specialist in high-level administration and organisational systems.

-Expert in people-focused support and creating positive workplace cultures.

- Personal experience and advocacy in neuro-affirming support.

How long have you been working at Sense?

I joined the team in February 2024. I first met Carlien and Jesse at our local gym, Coal Coast Fitness, and was immediately drawn to their genuine, kind nature. As I learned more about the work they were doing through Sense Rugby and Sense Therapies, I felt a strong connection to their vision. When the opportunity arose to join the team, it felt like the perfect fit!

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

Working alongside a team that is welcoming, supportive, and genuinely invested in bringing out the best in everyone around them. I feel incredibly grateful to work with such a wonderful group of people and to share my passion for supporting our local community.

Coralie works at the front desk of Sense Therapies, ensuring every family receives a warm, welcoming start to their journey. She brings a history of working with children and a passion for creating a supportive environment for both families and the therapy team.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

I have always loved working with children and families, which started in childcare for about six years before I moved into swim teaching and administration. So, being at the front desk of an OT clinic feels really special. I get to be the friendly first face families see, help make everything smooth and welcoming, and be part of the same kind of positive environment that helped me when I was a kid.

Your background and your why…

My background is in childcare for about six years, then I moved into swim teaching with administration. I actually did OT myself when I was younger! I remember how fun, supportive, and engaging the sessions were—I never wanted to leave each appointment. My "why" is rooted in recreating that experience: ensuring every family feels supported and happy to be here, just like I did.

What experience and certifications do you have?

Certificate III in Exploring early childhood and education.

Certificate III in Business.

Certified Swim Instructor.

How long have you been working at Sense?

I started in November 2025.

What is your favourite part about working at Sense?

Being at the front desk is wonderful—I love meeting and building positive relationships with families and staff. But ultimately, it’s the knowing I’m working for the most rewarding, supportive, and positive environment!