Our practitioners:
Independent Social Worker
Hi, name is Esme Platt and I set up SEND Support Banbury Ltd in 2022 because SEND has very much been part of my family’s life when my eldest son was diagnosed with autism, ADHD and sensory processing disorder 9 years ago. My younger son is also autistic with a demand avoidant profile and I was most recently diagnosed autistic at the age of 36.
My social work journey started in 2014 when I volunteered for the Early Intervention Service and in 2015 I completed a Diploma in Social Sciences. I went on to study Social Work and in 2018 I graduated with a 2:1 Bachelor honours degree in Social Work. Since then I have worked as a front-line social worker in child protection until most recently I have become an independent social worker that specialises in safeguarding & SEND.
I provide expert witness reports for the first-tier tribunal (special educational needs & disabilities). I am licensed to conduct ParentAssess parenting assessments which is a specialist parenting assessment for parents that live with a learning disability or additional needs such an trauma, domestic abuse, poor mental health, exploitation or alcohol or drug misuse.
In addition to this I conduct autism assessments privately for people that are presenting with autistic characteristics as part of a multi-disciplinary team which is made up of myself, a speech and language therapist, occupational therapist and several clinical psychologists.
Speech and Language Therapist
Hi, I’m Maddisyn (Maddi) English, a speech and language therapist. I have extensive experience working with a wide range of people with Autism, as well as a passion for delivering relevant training to patients, family, teachers, carers, and workplaces on various diagnoses and their impact on day-to-day functioning. Since graduating with a Bachelor of Speech Pathology from Southern Cross University, Australia, I have gone on to work in hospitals and educational settings on both sides of the globe. I have undertaken placements at Innisfail Hospital and Ipswich Hospital in Australia, worked at Brisbane Catholic Education (a network of 141 schools in Australia), and since moving to the United Kingdom, I have worked as a speech and language therapist at a specialist Autism Spectrum Condition school.
Occupational Therapist
Hi, I’m Justine McDonnell, an occupational therapist. I am a dedicated Lead Occupational Therapist and Advanced Sensory Integration Practitioner with a proven track record of over a decade in providing specialised care and support to individuals with diverse needs.
My journey began with a focus on personalised technology coordination at Hft, where I assessed individuals with learning disabilities to identify and implement assistive technologies, empowering them to lead more independent lives. This experience laid the foundation for my subsequent roles, where I transitioned into leading Occupational Therapy services and integrating sensory approaches to support students with autism in a special school environment.
I am a passionate advocate for neurodiversity, celebrating the strengths and unique perspectives that each individual brings. With a deep understanding of the diverse ways people experience the world, I aim to foster an environment that embraces differences and empowers clients to navigate the world in their own authentic way.
Having personally navigated the challenges of dyslexia and combined ADHD, I bring a unique perspective to my practice. I understand the importance of tailored approaches and strive to create interventions that honour the individual learning styles of my clients.
Clinical Psychologist
Hi, I’m Dr Fiona Desira, a Consultant Clinical Psychologist. I have over 15 years’ experience working with children, young people and families in the UK and overseas. I am very passionate about Neurodevelopment, with a particular special interest in Autism.
For the last 15 years I have supported many families through the complex diagnostic process and beyond. I pride myself on providing high quality, best practice assessment as part of a multi-disciplinary team and have spent the last 15 years developing and leading diagnostic services. I strongly believe in neuroaffirming practice, ensuring strength-based assessments and providing post-diagnostic support to individuals and families that fosters the development of a positive neurodivergent identity.
I have an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Northumbria University (2003) and master’s degree in Health Psychology from Teesside University (2004) and qualified with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Teesside University in 2009. Since qualifying, I worked in the NHS and private practice in the UK, before moving to the United Arab Emirates where I worked in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. I returned to the UK in 2024 and am excited to work as part of the team providing high quality multidisciplinary assessments.
In addition to working directly with families, I enjoy teaching and training and am particularly passionate about my role as an Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) trainer.