Meet Ellie O'Brien,

Speech and Language Therapist

Ellie takes a holistic, child-centred and neuro-affirming approach, helping children feel comfortable being themselves while developing confidence in their communication.

A little about Ellie

Ellie is passionate about creating inclusive therapy sessions and environments where children are encouraged to be their authentic selves. She wants children to feel happy, understood and excited to take part, rather than feeling that communication support is something being done to them.
She works collaboratively with families, schools and other professionals to understand the whole child, build on individual strengths and help each child work towards meaningful communication goals.

Neuro-affirming speech and language therapy

Ellie particularly enjoys supporting neurodivergent children and helping schools develop more neuro-affirming environments. Her experience includes working within a multidisciplinary team in a specialist school with autistic children and young people aged 4–16.

This work has included supporting communication, independence, self-advocacy and access to learning. Ellie’s background in psychology also informs her thoughtful understanding of each child’s wider needs and experiences.

Working collaboratively around the child

Ellie values the different perspectives brought by families, teachers and other professionals. By working together, she helps build a fuller picture of a child’s strengths, communication preferences and support needs.

I love seeing children feel happy, confident and excited to come to therapy while growing in confidence in their communication.

When you work with Ellie

Friendly and approachable

Child-centred

Collaborative

Focused on making therapy enjoyable and affirming

A few things about Ellie

Favourite drink

An iced vanilla latte

Can't resist

A movie marathon

Favourite children's book

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

Favourite way to relax

Reading in the garden and spending time with family

Qualifications and training

Qualifications

BSc Psychology; MSc Clinical Psychology; MSc Speech and Language Therapy.

Experience

Experience in a specialist school and multidisciplinary team, supporting autistic children and young people with communication, independence, self-advocacy and learning.

Additional training

Makaton Levels 1 and 2, Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills, Gestalt Language Processing and trauma-informed practice.