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.
