MELYSSA GARDY
Maternity Leave
Team Leader – Werribee Clinic
Paediatric Occupational Therapist
Melyssa has extensive experience working with children from birth to 16 years of age and sees a range of conditions including, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Developmental Delay, rare genetic conditions and physical disabilities. She is particularly passionate about working with babies and children with motor disorders (e.g. Cerebral Palsy, Acquired Brain Injury, Prosthetics etc.)
Prior to joining the team at Splash Paediatric Therapy, Melyssa worked for the Department of Education in the Special School setting, as well as at Yooralla Children’s Services, providing support to children aged 4 to 18 years with developmental, complex physical and medical conditions. In these settings she particularly gained expertise in the use of technology to help the child’s independence and participation in the home, community, or school setting, including prescription of basic to complex aides and equipment.
Melyssa has also worked in the Early Childhood Intervention setting at Noah’s Ark, supporting families in the community and home environments. In addition, Melyssa is a co-author of a chapter for the text book “Assistive Technology to Support Inclusive Education” for children with additional needs.
Melyssa guest lectures the Paediatrics Unit at Swinburne University for Occupational Therapy Masters students, taking a special interest in teaching about children with physical disabilities. She is also trained in the Cognitive Orientation to Occupational Performance (CO-OP) Approach which helps to support her clients to achieve their personal goals through a performance-based, problem-solving style.
Master of Occupational Therapy Practice
Bachelor of Exercise Science