Senior Paediatric Occupational Therapist

Lead, Innovate & Inspire at CHATS (Children’s Health and Therapy Services) – Facility Opening 2026

Are you a highly experienced paediatric occupational therapist ready to take your career to the next level? CHATS – Children’s Health and Therapy Services (previously Chatterbox Australia Therapy Services) is seeking a Senior Paediatric OT to join our vibrant, multidisciplinary team as we prepare to open our brand new, boutique-style, purpose-built centre in 2026.

ABOUT US

Celebrating over 20 years of service, Chatterbox Australia Therapy Services is one of Melbourne’s most established paediatric therapy clinics. We’re known for our holistic, family-centred approach and our commitment to evidence-based, collaborative care. Our multidisciplinary team includes speech pathologists, occupational therapists, group therapy program facilitators, art therapy, music therapy and performing arts educators—all united by a mission to make a genuine difference in the lives of children and their families.

Who We Support:
We specialise in working with children and teens who are offered referred to as ‘in the gap’—not meeting criteria for specialist education, yet needing more support than mainstream education settings typically offer. Our services are tailored to help these young people build confidence, independence, and success at school and beyond.

Looking Ahead:
We’re excited to announce that in 2026, Chatterbox will be rebranding as CHATS Therapy Centre's, reflecting our continued growth and the expansion of our innovative programs and services. This is an exciting time to join our team as we build on our legacy and look to the future.

WHAT MAKES CHATS UNIQUE

• Brand New Boutique-Style Facility (Opening 2026): Custom-designed therapy rooms, sensory and creative zones, modern equipment, and welcoming community spaces—all with a boutique aesthetic and a focus on accessibility and inclusivity.

• Innovative Group Therapy: Integration of music, art, drama, yoga, and dance into group therapy, supporting self-expression, emotional regulation, and resilience.

• Teletherapy & Flexible Service Delivery: In-person and online therapy options to meet the needs of every family.

• Collaborative Model: Work alongside passionate allied health professionals in a supportive, multidisciplinary environment.

• Innovative Programs: Join us at the forefront of program development at CHATS where our signature PREPARE program has set the standard for supporting children’s transition to school for 15 years. In 2026, we’re excited to launch two brand new, innovative programs—each designed to address emerging needs in our community and unlike anything currently available elsewhere. These unique initiatives reflect our commitment to creativity, evidence-based practice, and delivering truly exceptional outcomes for children and families.

THE OPPORTUNITY

As a Senior Occupational Therapist, you will:

• Provide clinical leadership and mentoring to junior OTs and students.

• Manage a diverse paediatric caseload, conducting assessments and delivering individual and group therapy.

• Collaborate with families, educators, and other allied health professionals to develop and implement effective intervention plans.

• Contribute to the design and delivery of group therapy programs and professional development initiatives.

• Maintain high standards of clinical documentation and evidence-based practice.

• Generous PD budget to ensure the services we provide are still current, adding new evidence-based therapy interventions, help you to train and specialise in the areas you are passionate about.

ABOUT YOU

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy.

• Current AHPRA registration.

• At least 5 years’ paediatric OT experience, including sensory integration and developmental disorders.

• Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to mentor others.

• Strong communication, adaptability, and a collaborative approach.

• Commitment to ongoing professional development and evidence-based practice.

• Familiarity with creative, group-based therapy approaches is highly regarded.

• NDIS Screening Check

• Current Working With Children's Check

WHY JOIN CHATS?

• Be part of our rebrand and the launch of a new, boutique-style centre in 2026.

• Ongoing supervision, PD budget, and opportunities to shape innovative programs.

• Supportive, respectful, and values-driven team culture.

• Flexible working arrangements for work-life balance.

• Competitive salary and benefits.

If you’re an experienced occupational therapist who’s passionate about making a difference and ready to take on a leadership role, we’d love to hear from you.