Meet the Team
We are a passionate team who use a neuroaffirming, strengths-based approach to support children and families. We are proud of the work we do and partner closely with families to support meaningful participation in everyday life.
Rebecca Birch
Director & Senior Occupational Therapist
Rebecca is a graduate of the University of Sydney, holding a Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy). She has a strong passion for early childhood and enjoys supporting children and families to engage in meaningful everyday activities.
Rebecca provides evidence-based, neuro-affirming and family-centred therapy within a fun, supportive and safe environment where children feel comfortable to learn, grow and build their skills. Her practice focuses on fostering functional independence, confidence and participation, while supporting children to achieve their goals and improve their overall quality of life.
Rebecca has also achieved CPAadvance™ Accredited Practitioner status through Cerebral Palsy Alliance. This accreditation formally recognises her advanced knowledge, clinical reasoning and competence in evidence-based intervention for infants and young children with complex motor and neurological disabilities, including cerebral palsy.
Rebecca is a member of Occupational Therapy Australia and has completed training in the Westmead Feelings Program (Level 1) and LEGO® Therapy.
Nicolette Biris
Occupational Therapist
Nicolette graduated from Western Sydney University with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy. With a deep passion for working with children, Nicolette finds joy in the creativity that occupational therapy offers.
She is committed to helping children reach their full potential and achieve personal goals. Through playful approaches, Nicolette enjoys fostering a supportive and engaging environment where kids can thrive and build confidence in their abilities.
Amy Duignan
Occupational Therapist
Amy graduated from Western Sydney University with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy. She is passionate about supporting children and families through genuine, family-centred practice that values each child’s strengths and individuality. Amy’s approach is inspired by the intersection of evidence-based practice and creativity that is unique to OT, with a focus on fostering independence and meaningful participation in everyday life. She is dedicated to creating a warm, safe, and welcoming environment where children feel supported, confident, and empowered to work towards their goals.
Claudia Finlayson
Occupational Therapist
Claudia graduated from Australian Catholic University with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy. She is passionate about working with children and supporting their participation in everyday activities that build independence and confidence.
Claudia enjoys tailoring therapy to each child’s interests and strengths, creating sessions that are motivating and purposeful. Using a playful and collaborative approach, she aims to foster a positive environment where children feel supported to develop skills, work towards meaningful goals, and thrive.
Michael Birch
Director & Clinical Goverance
Michael graduated with Honours from the University of Sydney with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) in 2014. He has also completed a Master of Health Service Management from UNSW. Michael started his career as a physiotherapist, before working in various roles in NSW Health in clinical & corporate governance, and most recently in risk & compliance in private health insurance. Michael brings a breadth of experience in clinical & corporate governance to Protea OT to ensure the organisation has the highest standards for patient safety, governance, compliance and risk management.
Phillip Camilleri
Finance Manager
Phillip graduated from Western Sydney University with a Bachelor of Business
(Accounting) and a sub-major in Law. Phillip is a qualified Chartered Accountant and is also an associate member of The Chartered Governance Institute.
Phillip has had extensive experience in accounting, company secretarial, direct and indirect taxation and finance and has taken a hands-on approach when undertaking operational, administrative and corporate financial management matters to ensure they are completion is achieved in a timely manner. Phillip enjoys his work knowing he is actively contributing to the success of Protea OT.