Gabby Heanly

Occupational Therapist

Gabby completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at the University of Newcastle, NSW 2020. Before becoming an OT, Gabby gained experience working in disability as a community support worker with many children and adults. This is where her passion for working with individuals to reach their potential and engage in tasks that are meaningful to them developed. After graduating, Gabby joined a multidisciplinary team in the early intervention space, working with children and their families, and gained experience supporting children with a range of diagnosis including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Down syndrome, GDD and sensory processing challenges.  

Gabby has a passion for supporting children and working with all the important stakeholders in their lives. Whilst Occupational Therapy can be beneficial to assist children with overcoming their various skill gaps, and to engage with their daily tasks, Gabby recognizes the importance of also supporting the needs of the body and brain. Since starting at the Nest Health Hub, Gabby has enjoyed working within a neurosequential model, aimed at holistically supporting a child and families’ need. She believes that play based therapy, focusing on foundations of safety and connection, helps children increase their learning and development, for greater joy and engagement in their lives.  

When she is not at work, Gabby is generally enjoying the outdoors in anyway possible. Rock climbing, hiking, swimming and camping are some of the ways Gabby connects with nature, and enjoys spending time with her friends and family.