Meet the Grow Paediatrics Team
Jessie Anderson
Director of Grow Paediatrics
Qualified Paediatric Feeding Specialist | Certified Practicing Speech Pathologist | Educator | University Lecturer
Hi I'm Jessie, a dedicated paediatric speech pathologist, feeding therapist, and educator.
My mission is to support and empower families - just like yours - in navigating feeding challenges with a holistic approach.
Feeding isn't just about nourishment; it's a pillar that supports both infant health and meaningful connections. I bring my expertise and passion to guide you through this journey, offering holistic solutions for a positive and joyous feeding experience.
With over 17 years of experience, I have extensive skills to address feeding challenges comprehensively. Whether it's complex feeding disorders, craniofacial abnormalities, picky eating, mealtime stress, and/or fostering healthy connections through food, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
email: jessie@growpaediatrics.au
Beth
Complex Care Key Worker | Paediatric Special Care Nurse | IBLCC Registered | Lactation Consultant
Beth has extensive knowledge and experience with developmentally and medically complex infants and children.
Beth is a wife and mother to 4 beautiful children.
Beth specialises in helping families to coordinate care services, as well as manage feeding tubes, toileting, medications and sleep challenges.
Referrals: Click here
Amy
Registered Nurse | Midwife
Hi, I’m Amy. I am a Registered Nurse and Midwife with over 22 years of experience working across a broad range of clinical areas, including the provision of clinical education to nurses and midwives over 17 of those years.
I also have lived experience of the trials and joys of parenting children with neurodivergence, and given this, I take a very neuro-affirming approach to life and clinical practice.
I believe that families in regional and rural areas should have access to excellent therapy and facilities that meet their needs in a timely way. There can be many hurdles to navigate with a child with complex needs, and I look forward to working with families to make their journey a lot smoother.
Referrals: Click here
Elise
Registered Nurse | Qualified Trainer and Assessor
Hello I’m Elise a registered nurse and qualified trainer and assessor with over 13 years experience of teaching and over 15 years working in the nursing workforce. I have taught across a wide variety of qualifications from School Based Apprenticeships in healthcare, Vocational Educational and Training in Schools and relevant areas of Allied Health qualifications.
My specialty teaching area and experience sits with the Diploma of Nursing and First Aid units. I have worked across multiple acute ward environments and in community nursing.
I love my profession so much I’m also working clinically in the perioperative environment. I’m passionate about hands on quality education that doesn’t just tell you what to do but shows you and explains why.
Referrals: Click here
Abi
Registered Nurse
Hello, I’m Abi. I am a Registered Nurse with six years’ experience in the paediatric space, with extensive experience in supporting children across multiple areas of health and development. I believe every child deserves the chance to grow and flourish.
Working alongside families is a privilege of my career, and I strive to provide care that is not only clinically sound, but also compassionate and empowering.
At home, I am a mum to two energetic boys, giving me first-hand experience of the joys (and chaos!) that parenthood brings. Whether in my professional or personal life, I am driven by the belief that, with the right support, kids can truly thrive.
Referrals: Click here
Amanda
Senior Occupational Therapist
Amanda is a highly experienced Occupational Therapist (OT) having worked in the field for 19 years.
Amanda is a mum to sweet Hamish, a 3-year-old pocket rocket who loves adventures with Sophie, the 4-legged family pal.
Prior to having Hamish, Amanda was a keen traveller having travelled to more than 40 countries.
Amanda can’t wait to share similar adventures with Hamish as he gets a little older.
Amanda has a strong interest in neurological conditions and
completed her master’s degree in this area to extend her knowledge and practice.
Amanda specialises in paediatric sleep and complex toileting.
Amanda is passionate about working collaboratively in a team environment and working towards family centred goals within everyday routines and environments.
Referrals: Click here
Anna
Senior Speech Pathologist
We’re thrilled to introduce our Senior Speech Pathologist, who brings over 8 years of experience in the early intervention sector. She is deeply passionate about:
- AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication): Empowering children to communicate in ways that work best for them.
- Play-Based Intervention: Making therapy fun, engaging, and meaningful through play.
- Neuro-Affirming Practices: Supporting children in ways that respect and celebrate their unique strengths and needs.
- Early Language & Literacy: Building the foundational skills that help children thrive in school and beyond.
Her expertise and warm approach make her a perfect fit for the GROW Paediatrics team, and we know families will love working with her just as much as we do!
Referrals: Click here
Briarna
Speech Pathologist
Hello my name is Briarna! I'm super loud, super energetic, super chatty!
I love my job so much, I love turning up to work and being able to help people achieve functional communication! No goal is too big or too small, if it means something to you then it means something to me.
I have a special interest in the neurodivergent community and work in an affirming approach to be apart of the journey to reach their goals.
I can’t wait to meet and support more people through GROW!
Referrals: Click here
Elle
Speech Pathologist
Hi! I’m Elle — a Speech Pathologist and Teacher with over 17 years experience. I have a passion for literacy and language, and am currently completing my Masters in this area to both satiate my love of learning, and extend my knowledge and skills base.
I enjoy supporting families and their little people to achieve their goals - building connection, confidence and skills in a nurturing, play-based environment, whilst collaborating with other relevant services to ensure a holistic approach.
Referrals: Click here
Evelyn
Psychologist
Hi, my name is Evelyn and I’m a registered Psychologist with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and their families. I’ve worked across Community Mental Health and school settings, providing both assessments and therapy for a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and learning challenges.
I support children who may be experiencing anxiety, low mood, learning difficulties, behaviour concerns, low self-esteem, or social and emotional difficulties. I also work with neurodivergent children and their families, and have experience in completing multidisciplinary autism assessments alongside other professionals.
I believe strongly in working as a team—with parents, carers, schools, and other important people in a child’s life—so that we can provide the most consistent and helpful support. My aim is to offer a safe, supportive space where children and families feel heard, understood, and empowered.
Referrals: Click here
Zoe
Paediatric Occupational Therapist
Hi, I’m Zoe - a paediatric occupational therapist, wife to Brendan, and mum to Noah. I’ve been working in early intervention for over five years, specialising play-based therapy; recognising the role of purposeful play in fostering developmental skills, enhancing engagement, and supporting functional independence in children.
I have a particular passion for helping children with toileting skill development, behavioural intervention strategies, and the prescription of assistive equipment to optimise participation in daily routines.
I am committed to evidence-based practice and I work collaboratively with families, educators, and multidisciplinary teams to deliver tailored interventions that promote each child’s well-being, autonomy, and quality of life.
Referrals: Click here
Natalee
Lead Practitioner | Specialist Educator | Allied Health Assistant Mentor
Hi, my name is Natalee! I have always been passionate about working with children and families in early childhood.
In 2000 I completed my Bachelor of Early Childhood Studies and Post Graduate Diploma in Early Intervention, and have since worked in a range of childcare and preschool settings including big cities such as Melbourne and London, as well as small mobile rural programs.
I recently transitioned from a Teaching/Director position to a specialist role to focus on providing individual support for children and their families.
I firmly believe that children learn best through play, and I incorporate this philosophy into my support strategies. I value the uniqueness of each
child and family, and hope to assist families on their journey through early childhood.
Referrals: Click here
Ashleigh
Lead Practitioner | Art Therapist
With years of experience in the early childhood sector, she combines her deep understanding of child development with her passion for creativity to help children reach their developmental goals and milestones.
As an artist herself, she brings a unique approach to therapy, using a variety of artistic mediums to inspire and engage children. From painting to sculpting and everything in between, her sessions are designed to foster growth, confidence, and joy through the magic of art.
We can’t wait for you to experience her incredible energy and innovative techniques!
Referrals: Click here
Tamika
Counsellor
Hi, I’m Tamika - a counsellor and the founder of Holding Space Counselling. I work alongside children, tweens, teens, adults, and families to support emotional wellbeing, resilience, and regulation through life’s big (and sometimes overwhelming) moments.
At Grow, I’m here to bring a mental health lens to the clinic’s wonderful wraparound support. I help young people navigate challenges like anxiety, emotional regulation, school pressures, adjustment to family changes (like separation or blended families), and the weight of the "mental load" many families feel today.
My approach is warm, trauma-informed, and creative. Sessions are grounded in connection, with practical tools that make sense for the child’s age, stage, and sensory profile, often using play, movement, and body–mind awareness alongside counselling conversations.
I believe when we give young people the emotional tools early, they don’t just learn to cope, they thrive. And when families feel supported, calmer homes and stronger connections follow.
I’m so excited to be part of the Grow team, offering another layer of support to the incredible kids and families who walk through the doors.
Referrals: Click here
Lauren
Project Lead
Hi I’m Lauren, I grew up in Albury/Wodonga and have built a family of my own here. Between my partner (the Mechanic), our 8yo, 5yo, and nearly 2yo, life stays pretty busy! I bring experience from the airline, dairy, and community health sectors, and in 2025, I’ll be adding to the chaos by studying Occupational Therapy full-time.
Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about helping people gain the ability and capacity to do what they love. My background in safety, early intervention, and wellbeing has allowed me to work closely with individuals to understand and support their personal goals. More often than not, kids are at the heart of these goals and hold a special place on the priority list.
This passion led me to pursue a role in paediatric allied health. I’m excited to connect with the incredible parents and caregivers who work tirelessly to ensure their children grow up with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they deserve.
Fun facts about me:
- I have 2 Border Collies- they are basically my personality in a four legged being.
- Love chocolate and coffee.
- Watch action and crimes movies
- Am guaranteed to nap if I lie down. Especially 2min into the action or crime movie.
- I can’t wear odd socks but admire those who can.
- I cannot touch styrofoam and I don’t admire those who can.
- I love people telling me jokes and forget the punchline instantly.
- My favourite colour is orange.
- I’m the person at dinner who asks the waiter to choose for me.
Referrals: Click here
Shelley
Brigette
