Ellie Thiess

Ellie is a calm and kind therapist who places a strong emphasis on creating a safe and fun environment for her clients and their families. She uses a collaborative, playful and evidence-based approach to enable children and their families to achieve their goals.

Ellie has previously worked in a role supporting children and adults accessing OT through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Ellie graduated from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Exercise and Nutrition Science first, then a Master of Occupational Therapy Studies.

Ellie has been a member of the Kids Matters OT team since 2022.

Ellie has experience with:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Sensory processing differences
• Learning differences
• Social skills
• Handwriting difficulties
• Emotional regulation
• Prep-readiness skills

• Introduction to DIR and DIRFloortime 101 (2022)
• Feeding Basics – Brisbane Feeding Clinic (2023)
• Learning to Conquer the Wees and Poos (2023)
• Neurodiversity Affirming Practice: 1 Day Workshop for Allied Health Professionals (2023)
• PDA and Autism: An Introduction – Professor Tony Attwood, Dr Michelle Garnett (2024)
• Collaborative & Proactive Solutions – Dr Ross Greene (2024)
• Assessment and Treatment of Selective Mutism – Selective Mutism Clinic (2025)
• The Power of Attachment: utilising relationship-based, developmental and trauma informed approaches in Occupational Therapy (2025)

Ellie strongly values a collaborative, strengths-based and neuro-affirming approach and seeks to work with the child, family, educators, and other health professionals to enable the child to reach their full potential and transfer skills and strategies practiced in therapy into all areas of their life. Ellie strives to holistically consider the presenting concerns of a child and identify underlying factors contributing to the concerns. Ellie uses a developmental approach to meet children at their developmental level and build strong foundational skills.

Ellie grew up in Brisbane and lives with her husband and two golden retrievers. Ellie is family orientated and enjoys spending time with them as often as possible. Ellie loves to visit new places and explore the outdoors.

On the weekends, Ellie loves spending time with her family and friends, running, walking her dogs (Rio and Poppy), visiting cafes and going to the beach.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts you or the therapist may find that you are not a good fit. If your therapist feels that he or she is not best suited to you, he/ she will discuss this with you and recommend a more appropriate therapist.

If you feel that your therapist is not a good fit, simply discuss this with our admin team who will find a more suitable therapist.