Occupational Therapy Team

Katie-Leigh Paulsen

Director & Occupational Therapist

Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

Post Graduate Certificate in Ayres Sensory Integration (CASI), Typical Child Development (Australian Neurodevelopmental Association), Therapeutic Listening (Vital Links, Better Access to Mental Health Endorsed

Katie-Leigh has worked as a paediatric occupational therapist since graduating from the University of Queensland in 2015. Katie-Leigh has extensive experience working in early intervention, supporting young children experiencing Global Developmental Delay/Dyspraxia, and Autistic/ADHD individuals. She is determined to deliver and improve access to early intervention services for the Clarence Valley. 

Katie enjoys spending her time outside of work playing soccer, caring for the animals on her property, and making memories with her family.

Rebecca Chlopicki

Occupational Therapist

Bachelor of Occupational Therapy & Bachelor of Music

USC Sensory Integration Continuing Education (CE)

Rebecca is a paediatric occupational therapist who recently joined the team after beginning her journey with North Coast Kids during her university placement.

With a background in performing arts, she brings creativity and playfulness to her therapy sessions, helping children engage in meaningful and enjoyable ways. Rebecca is passionate about advocating and acknowledging neurodiversity in her practice. She endeavours to create inclusive, joyful learning experiences that nurture confidence and self-expression.

Outside of work, Rebecca loves spending time with her family and exploring the northern beaches.

Adiba Tafhim

Occupational Therapist

Bachelor of Occupational Therapy & Master of Public Health

USC Sensory Integration Continuing Education (CE), Sensory Motor Integration Workshop (King of Swings)

Adiba is a paediatric occupational therapist who joined us at the beginning of 2025, all the way from Bangladesh!

Adiba brings fresh perspective and a deep passion for supporting children to develop their skills to perform functional tasks and occupations that are meaningful to them.

In her free time, Adiba enjoys reading books, keeping in contact with family and friends from back home and exploring her new surroundings in Grafton.

Piper Rowe

Allied Health Assistant (AHA)

4th Year Occupational Therapy at Southern Cross University (SCU)

Piper is an Allied Health Assistant at North Coast Kids and is currently in her fourth year of studying Occupational Therapy at Southern Cross University. She has gained valuable paediatric placement experience and has been supporting children and families as part of our team since the beginning of 2026.

Piper is known for her friendly, approachable nature and genuine passion for helping others. Her strong communication, organisation, and time management skills enable her to work collaboratively with therapists and families to deliver high-quality care.

Outside of work, Piper enjoys spending time with family and friends, staying active, and making the most of the beaches in Coffs Harbour.

Roisin “Rosie” Donnelly

Allied Health Assistant (AHA)

4th Year Occupational Therapy at Southern Cross University (SCU)

Piper is an Allied Health Assistant at North Coast Kids and is currently in her fourth year of studying Occupational Therapy at Southern Cross University. She has gained valuable paediatric placement experience and has been supporting children and families as an AHA for over a year in paediatrics.

Rosie is passionate about supporting children and families and enjoys using her growing knowledge and skills to help children achieve meaningful goals through engaging, play-based therapy. Known for her warm, approachable nature and strong work ethic, Rosie works collaboratively with families and therapists to deliver high-quality, person-centred support. She is committed to continually learning and developing her skills as she progresses towards becoming an occupational therapist.

Sarah Wynn

Allied Health Assistant (AHA)

Studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science

Sarah is an Allied Health Assistant who is currently studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science, exploring a future career in paediatric allied health. Sarah has seven years of experience as a School Learning Support Officer, supporting neurodivergent children within schools; helping students build confidence, independence, and social-emotional skills.

Sarah brings a wealth of experience in working collaboratively with families, educators, and therapists. Her strong organisational skills, administrative experience, and caring approach allow her to provide engaging, play-based therapy while supporting the smooth delivery of services across the clinic.