Vikki Pestell

Specialist Occupational Therapist:
PGCert, BSc (Hons)

I qualified as an Occupational Therapist at Northumbria University in 2010. I started my career working in community paediatrics and quickly became interested and passionate in supporting autistic children and young people. My interest was specifically in the impact on sensory processing differences and the impact this has on how people can do the things they need to do.

I have previously worked in the NHS for 13 years, working in mainstream and specialist schools, inpatient settings as well as in a second opinion autism assessment team. I have gained experience across these roles in assessing for sensory processing differences, as well as Developmental Co-Ordination Disorder (dyspraxia). These specialist assessments contribute towards the multidisciplinary assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder a to gain a detailed understanding of an individual’s neurodevelopmental profile of strengths and difficulties.

In addition to my clinical experience, I have completed further specialist training becoming an Advanced Sensory Integration Practitioner in 2020. I have also completed training in sensory attachment and the ‘Just Right State’ programme of intervention for children their parents/carers and for adults. I have completed further training in assessment and treatment of Developmental Coordination Disorder with Dyspraxia UK, and the ‘Autism Clinical Interview Adults training with Newcastle university.

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