About us
Arabella and Elaine met when they were both in clinical leadership positions. After some time apart in different roles, they decided to form a company with two main aims:
- Provide the highest possible clinical care to people with complex support needs
- Build clinicians who are confident and competent in working with people with complex support needs
About Arabella
My name is Arabella, and I graduated from the University of Sydney in 2015. I am a Certified Practising Speech Pathologist and a member of Speech Pathology Australia.
During my career, I have helped set up NDIS services in public health, held positions in senior management for a major allied health organisation, conducted and published award-winning research under my maiden name (Arabella Ludemann), presented at conferences, designed clinical programs for new graduates, run training events for clinical supervisors, and contributed to the promotion of many speech pathologists through mentoring and coaching.
Even with all the opportunities I have had in leadership and management, what I love most is helping people connect and enjoy their meals safely. I have lived experience of the impact of communication and swallowing disability (ask me about this if you want!).
Areas of interest
Because I take a person-centred approach to speech pathology, I believe that with good support and commitment, I can work towards my clients' goals no matter their age or diagnosis.
I enjoy working with people who have complex communication and swallowing needs. I have experience in the assessment of Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) including the application of assistive technology (AT). I am competent in the assessment of swallowing disorders and have worked with many clients and their networks to make mealtimes safe.
If you would like to know whether I have experience working with a specific condition, please contact me.
Supervision and mentoring
Two heads are better than one! I love talking to other speech pathologists about their professional development and I'm available for supervision and mentoring. If you're a Speech Pathology Australia member you can find me on the member hub. Otherwise, feel free to reach out if you'd like to connect.
Outside of speech pathology
In my spare time, I am an avid amateur musician (violin or timpani, depending on the day!). I am a weekend birder, and I love the outdoors for going for a run or spending time with my family and friends.
About Elaine
My name is Elaine and I graduated from the University of Sydney in 2006. I am an AHPRA registered Occupational Therapist and a member of Occupational Therapy Australia.
My career has given me valuable opportunities within Australia and overseas, where I have worked as a trainer and technical advisor in establishing allied health services and supporting staff in providing quality services.
I have significant clinical experience in community disability services here in Australia and have worked in senior management for a major NDIS allied health organisation. These experiences have provided me with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that exist within the disability sector, and I bring this knowledge into the support I provide for my clients.
My passion for providing quality and evidence-based clinical services always leads back to the privilege of working alongside clients and caregivers, and I’m especially looking forward to supporting our clients at Stellar Speech & OT in achieving their goals.
I currently work in a part time capacity for Stellar Speech & OT and spend the rest of my week as a lecturer at the University of Notre Dame, where I have the valuable opportunity of teaching and guiding the next generation of Occupational Therapists.
Areas of interest
I believe in the value of the occupational therapy profession in promoting the participation of all in the activities that are important to them, and I enjoy working across the lifespan and with clients with varying conditions to achieve a variety of goals.
I have a keen interest in working with children and families and love to exercise my ‘nerdy AT brain’ to develop assistive technology solutions for both children and adults.
If you would like to know more about how OT can support you to achieve your goals and the experience I offer, please contact me through the details provided.
Supervision and mentoring
I believe in lifelong learning, especially as an occupational therapist, and always look for opportunities for collaboration and new knowledge. I believe in the value of the knowledge each occupational therapists brings, no matter their level of experience, and am invested in supporting occupational therapists to find and trust in their skills as clinicians.
Outside of occupational therapy
In my spare time, I am an aspiring runner, camper and hiker. When not enjoying the outdoors, I love spending time with family and friends and relaxing with a good book.