SEED | Michelle Maunder | Paediatric Occupational Therapist
Paediatric Occupational Therapist | Mentor | Educator
Michelle Maunder is a Paediatric Occupational Therapist and Co-Director of SEED Paediatric Services, with more than 30 years of experience across occupational therapy, education, professional development and clinical consulting. She is passionate about collaborating with and empowering neurodivergent children and the people who support them, their families, educators and community. Michelle aims to help children who identify as autistic, ADHD, Global Developmental Delay, sensory integrative processing or relational attachment difficulties and any other developmental differences.
Approach
Michelle’s approach is grounded in evidence-informed practice, clinical experience and a deep commitment to understanding the whole child, their relationships and their environment.
Her clinical practice is informed by a broad range of theories, models and clinical reasoning approaches, including:
- Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI)
- Attachment Theory and Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB)
- Developmental, Individual-differences, Relationship-based (DIR) Model
- NeuroDevelopmental Treatment (NDT)
- Polyvagal Theory and other models of regulation
- Trauma Informed Practice
- Play Theory
- SPiRIT and STEPPSI clinical reasoning tools
Intervention can also include specific programs or protocols, including:
- Safe and Sound Listening Program
- The Astronaut Protocol
- The Therapeutic Listening Program
- The Therapressure Protocol
- MORE Approach: Motor, Oral Organisation, Respiration and Eyes
- DIR Floortime
By drawing on a range of clinical frameworks and interventions, Michelle aims to provide interventions that are responsive to the individual needs of each child and family.
Credentials
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy), University of Sydney, 1994
- Master of Education (Adult Education), University of Technology Sydney, 2007
Career highlights
- Co-Director SEED Paediatric Services
- Paediatric Occupational Therapist, SEED Paediatric Services
- Clinical Governance Consultant, CareWest
- Post Graduate Student Coach, University of Queensland
- Professional Development Manager, OT Association NSW
- Learning and Development Consultant, CRS Australia
- Occupational Therapist / Occupational Rehabilitation Consultant, CRS Australia
- Occupational Therapist, Adult Orthopaedic and Neurological Rehabilitation, Lourdes Rehabilitation Hospital
Michelle is a passionate and dedicated learner, constantly engaging in formal and informal professional development. The list of certificates, courses and workshops she has completed is too long to include here!
Michelle's Services
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Michelle provides assessment and intervention, working collaboratively with children, families, educators and other professionals to support meaningful participation, development and inclusion.
Mentoring
Michelle mentors paediatrics OT’s across Australia and internationally, supporting clinical reasoning, reflective practice and practical approaches tailored to each child.
Workshops & Professional Learning
Michelle tailors workshops for educators, carers and occupational therapists. Delivering dynamic presentations in early childhood centres, schools, organisations and allied health clinics.
CONSULTANCY
Michelle is passionate about creating inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming environments. She has worked in private, not for profit charitable and public organisations.
Work with Michelle
Whether you are looking for paediatric occupational therapy support, professional development for your team, or mentoring to strengthen your clinical practice, Michelle brings decades of experience, curiosity and a genuine commitment to helping others grow.