Sam Gourley (Collaborative Partnerships)

Get to know Sam Gourley (Collaborative Partnerships)

From Sam Gourley (Collaborative Partnerships)'s website.

• Our approach

  Collaborative Partnerships uses a family-centred, evidence-based approach to occupational therapy. Sessions are personalised for each child and focus on developing the skills they need for meaningful daily routines at home, school and in the community, including play, self-care, learning and essential life skills. The therapists deliver holistic, innovative care tailored to each child's needs and take a strengths-based approach, creating fun and engaging sessions. Support is available through clinic, school and home-based services across the Sunshine Coast.

• Working with families

  Collaborative Partnerships adopts a family-centred approach and works closely with families and other health professionals. Therapists focus on each family's priorities and build strong therapeutic relationships. The service offers a free initial parent consultation to discuss needs, and staff communicate with families to ensure interventions are personalised and aligned with their goals. Sessions are available in clinic, school and home-based settings to support families across different environments.

• Meet the team

  The team consists of seven paediatric occupational therapists, all AHPRA-registered with Bachelor degrees in Occupational Therapy from Australian universities. Sam Gourley is the Founder and Clinical Director with extensive experience supporting children with autism, epilepsy and complex behavioural needs, and has trained hundreds of Queensland educators. Other team members bring diverse expertise including early intervention, animal-assisted therapy, emotional and sensory regulation, dance integration and Pilates principles. Each therapist works collaboratively with families and other professionals to deliver individualised care.

• Your first visit

  Each new family receives a free, no-obligation phone consultation with a Senior Therapist to discuss their child's needs and make sure they're matched with the right clinician. The service aims to connect new clients with a therapist as quickly as possible so support can begin right away. During the initial parent consultation, you can learn how the service can help with your child's specific developmental needs, whether they have a formal diagnosis, are NDIS participants or need support in particular areas.