Simone Lenthall (nee O'Driscoll) is a Paediatric Mental Health Occupational Therapist. Simone graduated from the University of Western Sydney in 2007 with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) Hon. Her strong interest in Paediatrics saw her awarded First Class Honours for her dissertation titled 'The Views of Paediatric Occupational Therapists regarding research priorities in Paediatrics'.

Simone has a passion and experience working with children whom have Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorder, Global Developmental and Intellectual Delays, Dyspraxia, Down Syndrome, emotional regulation challenges and Anxiety.

Simone facilitates developmental assessments and therapy that addresses a child's gross motor and fine motor development (including handwriting), Sensory Processing, Executive Functioning, engagement in activities of daily living and social-emotional regulation. Special Provision assessments and reports (for school and transition to tertiary education) are available upon request.

Simone applies a strengths-based approach and values the importance of Neurodiverse Affirming Practices. In doing so, she strives to work closely with parents/families while focusing on connection, respectful relationships and collaboration to meet the needs of their child. Simone seeks to work closely with therapy teams, schools and organisations within the community, while striving for inclusivity and creating environments that support individual needs.

Simone facilitates individual and group sessions. She is the lead therapist of Crisalida's Ready Steady Prep Group and is a supervisor for members of the OT team at Crisalida. Therapy services are able to be provided under NDIS and Medicare schemes, including Chronic Disease Management and Better Access to Mental Health initiatives. Presentations to Early Intervention, school and community settings are available upon request.

Outside of Crisalida, Simone enjoys spending time with her young family, watching anything sport-related or enjoying a coffee - before it goes cold while on the run with her daughter.

Simone divides her time between the Thornbury and West Preston clinics on a part time basis.