Occupational Therapy Team
Natalie Stehbens
Bio
Felicity Fulcher
Felicity is a dedicated Paediatric Occupational Therapist who recently moved to the Sunshine Coast. After completing her degree at Deakin University, she discovered her passion for supporting children through roles in private practice, community organisations and kindergarten settings.
She takes a nurturing, strengths-based and family-centred approach, focusing on each family’s priorities while working collaboratively with other professionals. Felicity has particular interest in toileting and feeding challenges, emotional regulation, interoception, self-care, and fine and gross motor development.
With a patient and empathetic style, Felicity creates fun, engaging and individually tailored sessions. Her goal is to empower every child to learn, grow and reach their full potential.
Julia Cullen
Julia grew up in Cairns, Far North Queensland, and is excited to now call the Sunshine Coast home. She has a strong passion for supporting children with neurodevelopmental disorders and centres her practice on holistic, family-focused care.
A creative, out-of-the-box thinker, Julia makes therapy engaging and natural, using a strengths-based and evidence-based approach to help children and families achieve more than they thought possible.
Julia completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at James Cook University. She began her paediatric career in equine and animal-assisted therapy before moving into a neurodevelopmental specialist clinic in Brisbane.
She is also the proud owner of Millie, her cattle-Kelpie cross, who has previously supported Julia’s sessions by helping children with emotional regulation, transitions and offering a friendly furry companion.
Kaitlyn Edwards
Kaitlyn is a dedicated Paediatric Occupational Therapist committed to supporting children through early intervention and holistic care. After completing her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) at the University of the Sunshine Coast, she pursued her passion for helping children grow and thrive.
Using evidence-based and strengths-based approaches, Kaitlyn supports children with sensory processing, fine and gross motor skills, self-care and social development. She brings creativity, warmth and enthusiasm to every session, celebrating each child’s unique abilities.
Believing in every child’s potential, Kaitlyn aims to empower them to overcome challenges and flourish. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, beach volleyball and spending time with her playful pet bird, Artemis.
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Rachael Birthisel
Rachael is a Paediatric Occupational Therapist from Melbourne who has recently moved to the Sunshine Coast. She has experience supporting children with cognitive, sensory and neurological needs, and takes a collaborative, holistic approach by working closely with families and other health professionals.
Rachael has a strong interest in emotional and sensory regulation and how these areas affect a child’s daily activities, relationships and learning. As a qualified clinical Pilates instructor, she enjoys integrating Pilates principles into therapy to support motor development and regulation.
Now settled on the Sunshine Coast, Rachael and her partner are enjoying the sunshine and exploring the local beaches. She holds a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) from Monash University and is fully registered with AHPRA.
Sam Gourley
Sam Gourley holds a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from the University of the Sunshine Coast and has called the region home since 2008. A passionate paediatric OT with full AHPRA registration, Sam has extensive experience supporting children with ASD, epilepsy and complex behavioural needs. He has also trained hundreds of Queensland educators and is regularly engaged by schools for consultation and professional development.
Sam and his wife, Kelli-Anne, are parents to five children—Olive, Hazel, Bennett, Patterson and Marigold. He’s also an active video creator, sharing child development tips on Facebook (Sam Gourley Occupational Therapist) and Instagram (@samgourleyot).
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Tahnee Hicks
Tahnee grew up in Central Queensland before settling on the Sunshine Coast. She discovered her passion for occupational therapy after seeing the impact early intervention had on a friend’s child.
Energetic and compassionate, Tahnee focuses on family-centred goals and building children’s skills through strong therapeutic relationships. She is especially passionate about combining dance with occupational therapy to create inclusive spaces where children of all physical or cognitive abilities can connect, move and play.
Outside of work, Tahnee enjoys time with her nieces and nephew, attending dance, barre and spin classes, and relaxing at the beach with her partner and their dog, Shadow. She holds a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) from the University of the Sunshine Coast and maintains full AHPRA registration.
Tayla Gesch
Born and raised on the Sunshine Coast, Tayla is an empathetic and dedicated Occupational Therapist who completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at the University of the Sunshine Coast. She is committed to helping clients build independence and lead meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Tayla has experience supporting children and adults with a wide range of physical, sensory, cognitive and neurological needs. She uses evidence-based practices and works closely with families and support networks to deliver collaborative, effective intervention across all areas of life.
Outside of work, Tayla enjoys beach walks with her Toy Cavoodle, Theo, and taking part in local sports such as Oztag, AFL and soccer. She maintains full AHPRA registration.
