Donelle
Occupational Therapist
Pronouns: She ⸱ Her
Qualifications: Master of Social Science (Psychology), Bachelor of Occupational Therapy, Registered Occupational Therapist.
Modalities: ACT, Sensory integration, graded exposure, environmental adaptation, activity-based therapy, Trauma-informed practice.
Meet Donelle
Donelle is an Occupational Therapist who brings 25 years of clinical, corporate and community practice experience to Beehyve. She specialises in helping people with ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence thrive. Her expertise extends to sensory processing differences, autism and dyslexia.
"I take a neuro-affirming approach, which means that individual differences in the way our brains work are respected and incorporated into the plan - not seen as a deficit or 'disorder' that needs to be 'fixed'," she explains.
Donelle uses evidence-based approaches, drawing on various occupational therapy models and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
She prioritises practical solutions, especially in study and work settings.
"Occupational therapy looks at you as a whole person and also considers your environment," says Donelle.
Her personal journey with ADHD informs her practice: "I remember the exact moment when the penny dropped - that I related to these people so exceptionally well because I experienced all the same challenges they did."
Donelle is passionate about challenging the neurotypical status quo. She also supports women returning to work after maternity leave or during menopause, and takes a physiological approach to anxiety management, focusing on nervous system regulation and gut health.