GABBY SMITH

DirectoR & Principal Occupational Therapist

Leading the clinical direction of Paediatric Potentials OT

Gabby Smith is the Director and Principal Occupational Therapist at Paediatric Potentials OT. She holds a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from The University of Queensland and has dedicated her entire career to paediatrics.

Gabby has extensive experience supporting children with a wide range of developmental needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, complex developmental delays, and rare genetic conditions. She has also developed significant experience working with children with Rett Syndrome, supporting families with highly specialised and complex needs.

She has a particular clinical interest in sensory processing and Autism, working closely with families to understand their child’s needs and implement practical, real-world strategies.

Gabby oversees the clinical education program at Paediatric Potentials OT, supported by her clinical education team, ensuring a consistent and high standard of care across the practice.

She also spearheaded the Millmerran Outreach Program, bringing occupational therapy services to rural communities, and continues to provide professional development to kindergarten teaching teams and parents, sharing practical strategies to support children in everyday environments.

Gabby is recognised for her clinical expertise and has been engaged as an independent expert at the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), providing professional Occupational Therapy opinions.

Gabby maintains a small, highly specialised caseload, working with a limited number of complex clients and teenagers or young adults transitioning into their next life stage, alongside her broader role leading the clinical direction of the practice.

Accreditations & Areas of Expertise

  • Accredited Home Modifications Assessor

  • Accredited Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) Assessor

  • Accredited under the Better Access to Mental Health Program

A Parent-Focused Approach

Gabby is passionate about working in partnership with families. Her approach is grounded in parent coaching, ensuring parents feel confident, supported, and equipped to continue developing their child’s skills beyond therapy sessions.

Her focus is on helping children build the functional skills they need to succeed in everyday environments—at home, at school, and in the community.