“Connection, Compassion, Advocacy and Growth”

Shannan Connell (Director and Psychologist)

Shannan has been working as a psychologist since 2008, after graduating from Griffith University with First Class Honours. Shannan began working in the field of disability and supporting families with complex needs for the QLD government, before then moving to a behavioural intervention clinic. Shannan has always had a passion for working with individuals on the Autism spectrum and made this her area of focus when opening her own practice in 2013. Shannan has had extensive experience working in the home and school settings. Over the years of practice she has naturally evolved from working in the home setting physically to virtually, finding it to be more effective and flexible in many ways.

Shannan is registered as a Board-Approved Supervisor, enabling her to mentor and provide supervision to psychologists and provisional psychologists. Shannan is no longer taking on new referrals and focuses on supervising graduate psychologists on the team. 

Shannan is a dressage enthusiast, spending her time outside of psychology; training, coaching and competing. Shannan loves spending time at home with her family and animals.

Jonathan Shai (Psychologist)

Jonathan is a registered psychologist with experience working with diverse population of clients. Jonathan is working towards being a Board Approved Supervisor and plans on supervising graduate psychologists from 2025.

Jonathan has supported individuals experiencing Autism, depression, anxiety, mental health concerns and personality disorders. Jonathan believes that a key to effective therapy is having a genuine interest in the people he works with while offering a non-judgmental space. His approach is based in empathy, using principles from Acceptance Commitment Therapy, mindfulness and CBT. Jonathan completed his Bachelor of Psychological Science at Griffith University, and his Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science at Bond University. Jonathan has been working in the mental health public sector since June 2018, supporting people around their illness to improve their quality of life.

Jonathan operates from our Mullumbimby and Lismore office, or via telehealth (any location), school and in home appointments from families located between tweed heads and Lismore. Jonathan has a waitlist.

Lewis Fry  (Speech Pathologist)

Lewis Fry – BA SPTH (Hons); CPSP – Speech Pathologist

Lewis is an honours graduate from the University of Newcastle. He provides high level communication and swallowing management across a broad range of clinical areas and ages. Having worked in disability during his university years, Lewis brings an extra understanding of the specialised care required for the management of people living with complex disabilities. He has excellent skills providing evidence-based communication assessment and intervention for NDIS participants, and particular skills working with Autism. Lewis also has a passion for supporting the development of graduate speech pathologists.

Other areas of particular interest include neurodegenerative conditions, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, dementia, traumatic brain injury, and providing high level services to people living with these conditions. He further has a passion for voice, and is a LSVT certified practitioner. Lewis offers school or home appointments between Tweed and Lismore and office appointments from our office at Mullumbimby, Monday to Thursday. Lewis currently has a waitlist.

Ben Shine (Clinical Psychologist)

Ben Shine (Clinical Psychologist) BSc, BSc (First Class Honours), MSc, PGDipClinPsyc

Ben graduated as a clinical psychologist from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand in 2024 after completing his studies and placements in areas of child and family health, correctional psychology, and a year-long internship in adult mental health in a non-government multi-disciplinary team.

Ben has experience working with a variety of clients across the lifespan with diverse presentations. He has experience in assessment and diagnosis of various difficulties including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), mood and anxiety related disorders, trauma disorders, and personality disorders. He also has experience in supporting diverse presentations through clinical intervention using CBT, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and metacognitive therapy (MCT).

Ben loves to engage and interact with different people and believes that he can get along well with people from all walks of life. Ben is a firm believer than genuine connection and the therapeutic relationship is a key contributor to the success of therapy and prides himself on his ability to establish and maintain this connection.

Ben is passionate about learning and is always looking to improve and expand his knowledge and understanding of the psychological techniques to inform evidence-based best practice. Ben is available at our Nerang office and via telehealth.

Kate Dillon (Psychologist)

Kate is a  registered psychologist who began with us in 2020, experienced with children of all ages. She has a keen interest in people from all walks of life, experiencing a range of mental health concerns, trauma, and those with developmental disorders. 

Kate completed her undergraduate degree at Griffith University in Mt Gravatt in QLD and honours year at the University of the Sunshine Coast, having two girls along the way. She grew up in the Northern NSW and has recently returned with her young family to the area. 

Kate offers unconditional positive regard to all her clients, and approaches the therapeutic relationship with empathy, care and a genuine interest in the lives of all of her clients. Her tools are based in ACT, CBT and mindfulness. She also has an interest in Narrative Exposure Therapy, Positive Psychology and the facilitation of group therapies and workshops.

In her free time, Kate loves to attempt to garden, hang out with her young girl and horse, cook new recipes, learn Auslan and walk on the beach. 

Kate is available for school and home visits in the Lismore area, and Telehealth appointments, Tuesdays,  Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Pari Naz Barahimi (Occupational Therapist)

Pari achieved her Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy in Iran in 2013,  before relocating to Australia in 2022 to pursue AHPRA registration. Her background includes extensive experience in pediatric physical and mental health, with a focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Cerebral,sensory processing difficulties and physical difficulty.

As a creative and innovative Occupational Therapist, Pari specializes in developing individualized, engaging therapy plans that cater to each child’s unique needs. Her approach blends evidence-based practices with imaginative strategies to enhance therapeutic outcomes. By integrating playful, interactive techniques and adaptive tools, she aims to foster both functional and emotional growth in children, helping them thrive in their everyday lives.

Pari is based at our Nerang Office. 

Rulan Cadiogan (Provisional Psychologist)

Rulan is a provisionally registered psychologist, due to receive her general registration this year. Rulan completed her honours year at Monash University. She enjoys working with all age groups and has experience coaching and working with younger aged children. Rulan takes a holistic approach to her practice, using a variety of evidence based modalities when working with clients. She encourage self-awareness in overcoming problems and working toward goals.
Rulan works collaboratively with clients to underline their resilience and unique strengths. Rulan’s practice is supported by techniques such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and motivational interviewing. She uses these to explore individual and environmental constraints to client wellbeing.
Rulan values being part of the Northern Rivers community, and is an active member of several community organisations. Outside of work, Rulan enjoys playing and coaching soccer and exploring all that the Northern Rivers has to offer with her family.
She is available for appointments from Monday – Friday in the Northern Rivers region.

Kaitlyn Patterson  (Occupational Therapist)

Kaitlyn grew up in the Northern Rivers area and completed a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Southern Cross University. Whilst completing her studies, Kaitlyn gained experience working with people across many different environments including in the clinic, schools and in client’s homes.

Kaitlyn has experience supporting clients with Global Developmental Delay, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiance Disorder and cognitive delays. She provides a family centered approach when working with children and their families to help them achieve their functional goals. Kaitlyn has experience in completing a variety of assessments and interventions for children of all ages. Kaitlyn has an interest in early intervention and supporting children as they transition to primary school. Kaitlyn enjoys collaborating with teachers and parents to ensure successful implementation of therapy supports.

Kaitlyn is passionate about empowering clients to reach their fullest potentional in ways that are meaningful and important to them. Kaitlyn has experience in running cooking and LEGO group programs with children of similar ages. She is passionate about these programs as they enable children to learn important life skills in a safe and nurturing environment.

Outside of work, Kaitlyn enjoys cooking, reading, gardening, and going to the beach.

Kaitlyn is available for appointments Tuesday-Friday, servicing areas of Lismore and surrounds.

Elisa Holdik (Speech Therapist)

Elisa is passionate about supporting her clients in achieving their personal communication and swallowing goals. Elisa has a Master of Speech Pathology from The University of Technology Sydney and a background in supporting NDIS participants with complex disabilities. Elisa is bilingual (German) and enjoys working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

During her clinical placements, Elisa worked in schools, clinics, care homes, and via telehealth. Elisa has experience in providing assessment and therapy for speech, language, stuttering, aphasia, apraxia of speech, voice disorders, intellectual disability, dementias, Parkinson’s Disease, Schizophrenia, and swallowing. She has an interest in social communication, and working with children, teenagers, and adults on the Autism spectrum. Elisa also has experience working in schools in regional Australia and liaising with teachers to support children in accessing the curriculum.

Elisa works with a holistic and strengths-based approach to support her clients and caregivers on their individual journey. Elisa sees the importance of delivering services in the client’s ideal context to support generalisation and progress towards functional therapy goals.

When Elisa is not in the clinic, she enjoys going on adventures with her friends and family, surfing, hiking, horse riding and learning Swedish.

Elisa is available for appointments Monday to Thursday.

Sarah Rowlands (Speech Therapist)

Sarah completed her Speech Pathology degree at the University of Queensland and has since spent several years within a private practice on the Sunshine Coast. She is very excited for her move to the Northern Rivers in 2024.

Sarah is passionate about delivering effective and compassionate therapy, aiming to empower children and their families while demonstrating kindness, warmth, and fun. She takes a strengths-based approach relevant to clients’ needs and functional goals, striving to ensure her therapy involves collaboration with relevant stakeholders for functional progress. With a diverse background working in schools, homes, via telehealth, and in clinics, she has experience supporting language and speech development, social communication, fluency, and literacy. She particularly enjoys supporting neurodivergent children, finding fulfillment in contributing to their growth and development.

Continuously motivated by the impactful nature of speech therapy, Sarah draws inspiration and energy from the meaningful connections she establishes with clients and their families to assist them in achieving their goals and thriving in their environments. She finds joy in spending time outdoors and with her loved ones.

Sarah is available for school or home appointments in the Lismore region. Additionally, she welcomes clients to the office in Lismore or Mullumbimby from Monday to Thursday for in-office appointments.

Sarah Volaric (Provisional Psychologist)

Sarah is a provisional psychologist and completed her Masters of Psychology at Curtin University. Sarah is due to receive her general registration this year. During her studies Sarah completed her placement in a private practice, gaining experience working with individuals across the lifespan and with various presenting concerns.

Sarah focuses on working from a person-centered perspective, and believes in establishing a strong therapeutic relationship. She focuses on providing a safe and collaborative space for individuals to express themselves and to explore their individual experiences. 

Sarah’s therapeutic approach is guided by Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and incorporates techniques from ACT, mindfulness, and emotion regulation. Her areas of interest include emotion regulation, anxiety disorders, depression, mood difficulties and low self-esteem.

In her spare time, you will find Sarah enjoying a walk in nature with her dog or by the beach.

Sarah is available for school or home appointments in the Lismore region. Additionally, she welcomes clients to the office in Lismore or Mullumbimby from Monday to Thursday for in-office appointments. Sarah currently has ability to take new referrals.

Cherie Duncan (Speech Therapist)

Cherie has worked across a diverse range of industries before completing a Bachelor of Speech Pathology at Southern Cross University. Cherie is all about providing exceptional service and creating functional based goals to help her clients thrive.

Previously working in acute and rehabilitation services, Cherie has a particular interest for swallowing and communication across adult and geriatric populations, however she loves the diversity of a mixed caseload and sees a range of clients from toddlers to seniors. Cherie has a strong desire to support clients and their families utilising a flexible and compassionate approach and is always willing to customise each therapy session to help clients accomplish their goals.

Cherie has a passion for work life balance so when she’s not in the office her time is allocated to outdoor activities including gardening, surfing, scuba diving, and weekend camping adventures.

Cherie is available for appointments in the Lismore region, Monday to Thursday.

 

Saskia Dyer  (Occupational Therapist)

Saskia is beginning her employment in the Easy Access team as an OT assistant, having completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Southern Cross University, she awaits her registration with APRAH (due October 2024). She grew up in the Northern Rivers and has developed a passion for supporting individuals and families in the local area.

Throughout her university placements, Saskia gained valuable experience in primary schools, paediatric private practice, and a hospital’s Mental Health Unit. She developed a strong affinity for employing a play-based approach, which allows her to effectively support children and families in achieving their functional goals. Recognising the importance of collaboration, Saskia prioritises building and maintaining relationships with all individuals involved in a child’s care, enhancing the likelihood of successful therapy implementation.

Saskia is always striving to seek out new learning opportunities and enjoys stepping out of her comfort zone to diversify her knowledge.

Saskia is available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Michele Stoelhurst (Administration)

Michele has joined the Easy Access team to ensure clients, clinicians and all involved are supported along their therapy journey. 

Michele will be the friendly voice on the phone and she looks forward to welcoming, all the clients who attend the Gold Coast clinic. 

With a long background in medical administration, she will be able to assist with your inquiries, providing information on our services or practitioners, all while being super friendly and approachable, you  call on her at anytime! 

Michele has a long history with the ASD community on the Gold Coast, she is passionate about assisting families and loves being apart of the process from the beginning. 

In her spare time she loves to cook, spend time with her grandkids and be outdoors! 

Michele will be based primarily in our Gold Coast office, however will be taking care of and overseeing all the administrative requirements for Easy Access.  

Students currently on placement

     

Inga (Counsellor)                 Gene (Prov. Psychologist)    Eesha (Prov.  Psychologist)

At Easy Access we have a strong culture of providing opportunities to students and graduates to learn from our established multidisciplinary team. We welcome any Occupational Therapy,  Speech Therapy and Psychology students/ new graduates to reach out and see if a placement can be arranged. We have a team of very experienced therapists who love to share their knowledge with those new to the field.