Nadia

Wellbeing & Family Key Worker

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m Nadia — a mum of two beautiful children, including one who is neurodivergent, and a Parent & Carer Wellbeing Key Worker. I have over 11 years of teaching experience supporting neurodivergent children and their families, and I also understand this journey personally through raising my own neurodivergent child. My approach is gentle, connection-based and responsive to each family’s needs.

What first inspired you to pursue a career in allied health

and why do you still love it today?

I was first inspired to pursue this work because I’m living this journey myself. Parenting a neurodivergent child has shown me how much families carry — the love, the worry, the overwhelm and the joy — and how important it is to have someone beside you who truly understands. I care deeply about walking alongside parents with empathy and lived experience, so they feel supported, understood and not alone.

If someone was just starting out in allied health

what’s the best advice you’d give them?

Connection first and always.

Support begins with truly knowing the person — understanding their sensory world and building trust. This matters for children, adults and families equally.

If you could shadow another healthcare professional for a day

who would it be and why?

If I could shadow someone for a day, I’d choose Melanie. She’s incredibly knowledgeable, so caring, and carries such a calm kindness in everything she does. She has so much experience and advocates strongly for neurodivergent children and their families. I’d love to see how she brings her knowledge into practice — how she makes decisions, responds to needs and supports each family individually.

How do you stay balanced and regulate yourself?

I stay balanced by spending time with my family. Being with the people I love helps me regulate and feel grounded again. Connection is my calm place.

What do you do for fun?

I love building Lego and doing puzzles with my kids. I also enjoy reading and learning more about neurodiversity and neuroscience.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In five years, I see myself continuing to build connection, advocate for neurodivergent children and families, and offer individualised support so they feel truly seen and supported.

What are you currently studying or planning to study?

I have already completed seven years of formal study (Bachelor of Education and Master of Wellbeing), so for now I plan to continue my own learning through reading, exploring current research and practices, and attending webinars around neurodiversity.

What’s your favorite movie and why?

My favourite movie is The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie, because my kids love it as much as I do and we enjoy sitting together to watch it.

How do you handle situations when a child is experiencing strong

emotions and is in the red zone?

When a child is in the red zone, I focus on co-regulation first. I stay calm, offer connection, and support their nervous system to feel safe again. Every child is different, so I look at their individual needs, including sensory preferences and possible triggers, to guide how I respond in the moment.

And just for fun – tell us a joke!

What do you call a funny chicken?

A comedi-hen