‘Avanti’ is an Italian adverb that translates to ‘forward’ or ‘ahead’.
The name embodies our belief that the therapy we provide today can light the way to a brighter future for our children and families.
To positively impact the lives of the individuals and families we serve. We are passionate about providing holistic and purposeful therapy, using evidence-based approaches.
Empower, Innovate and Inspire
To empower and capacity build with our community by supporting our participants to reach their potential and increase their independence in meaningful everyday activities.
Connect, Collaborate and Advocate
To connect and collaborate with compassion and empathy and to advocate for diversity and inclusion.
Learn and Grow Together
To serve our community with therapy that embodies best practice and evidence-based approaches.
Safe for All
To nurture a safe environment to learn, develop and grow; mentally, physically and emotionally.
We strive to nurture a brighter future by supporting the growth, development and wellbeing of each child and their family.
Marissa Marks
Director and Occupational Therapist
Alicia Allan
Occupational Therapist
Ella Depalo
Occupational Therapist
Rebecca Abraham
Occupational Therapist
Brooke Weidemier
Occupational Therapist
Chloe Metwally
Occupational Therapy Assistant and Receptionist
Leanne Murray
Receptionist & Administrative Assistant
Marissa Marks
Director and Occupational Therapist
Special Interests
Marissa is the Director of Avanti Therapy and an Occupational Therapist who graduated from Western Sydney University in 2020. She is deeply committed to evidence-based practice, child safety, and delivering therapy that reflects best practice standards.
Marissa is passionate about supporting children and families to achieve meaningful, functional goals that create real change in everyday life. As Director, she is dedicated to fostering a team culture grounded in integrity, ongoing learning, and high-quality care. Her approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and always centred on what is in the best interest of each participant and their family.
Outside of work, Marissa loves spending time by the ocean, swimming, staying active, and unwinding with puzzles and creative crafts.
Qualifications
Additional Training
Alicia Allan
Occupational Therapist
Special Interests
Alicia graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy in 2020 from Australian Catholic University. She is passionate about supporting kids across all ages and environments to build confidence and independence in their meaningful activities.
She brings an interactive and engaging approach to therapy that evidence-based and individualised to meet each child’s strengths and interests to achieve their goals. She values and prioritises working collaboratively with families, educators, teachers and other allied health professionals to support a positive learning environment to allow the participant to thrive.
Outside of work, Alicia volunteers throughout the year at camps and retreats for children and young people with neuromuscular conditions, an experience that continues to guide her inclusive, strengths-based approach to therapy.
Qualifications
Additional Training
Ella Depalo
Occupational Therapist
Special Interests
Ella is a warm and enthusiastic paediatric Occupational Therapist who completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Australian Catholic University in 2025. She is passionate about supporting children and families to build independence, confidence, and meaningful participation in everyday life.
Ella takes a participant-centred and evidence-based approach, valuing the individuality of every child and their family. She works collaboratively to support children in developing autonomy, achieving their goals, and celebrating all wins, big and small.
Outside of work, Ella enjoys spending time outdoors, staying active, visiting the beach, and connecting with friends and family.
Qualifications
Additional Training
Rebecca Abraham
Occupational Therapist
Special Interests
Rebecca graduated with a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy in 2024 from Western Sydney University. She is passionate about supporting children of all ages to build confidence, resilience, and meaningful skills for everyday life.
She brings a creative and evidence-based approach to therapy, tailoring supports to each participant’s strengths, interests, and goals. Rebecca values building strong connections with families and creating a positive, encouraging environment where children feel supported to learn and grow.
Outside of work, Rebecca enjoys hiking and spending time in nature and can never say no to a sweet treat.
Qualifications
Additional Training
Brooke Weidemier
Occupational Therapist
Special Interests
Brooke is a vibrant and friendly paediatric Occupational Therapist who completed her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Australian Catholic University in 2025. She brings curiosity, warmth, and a strong relational focus to her work with children and families.
Brooke takes a holistic approach to therapy, exploring the strengths, relationships, routines, emotions, and sensory experiences that shape how each participant navigates their world. She collaborates closely with families to create practical and meaningful therapy plans that feel achievable and aligned with each child’s goals. Her practice is grounded in evidence-based care and guided by genuine connection and collaboration.
Outside the clinic, Brooke enjoys hiking, exploring coastlines, prioritising her wellbeing, and balancing it all with salted caramel gelato.
Qualifications
Additional Training
Chloe Metwally
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Special Interests
Chloe is an Occupational Therapy student at Western Sydney University and works as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, where she collaborates closely with Occupational Therapists to implement interventions tailored to each child. She is passionate about helping children work towards their goals in a fun and engaging way while recognising and celebrating their unique strengths.
She brings a playful and positive energy to sessions and believes children learn best when therapy feels fun and supportive. Often feeling like a big kid herself, she enjoys connecting with children through play while helping them develop confidence and skills for everyday activities.
Outside of work, Chloe enjoys staying active, grabbing an iced coffee and spending time at the beach.
Qualifications
Additional Training
Leanne Murray
Receptionist & Administrative Assistant
Leanne is the friendly face behind administration at Avanti Therapy, providing essential support to both families and the clinical team. She is passionate about creating a smooth and welcoming experience for everyone who connects with the service.
Leanne brings a wealth of experience across a variety of roles, with a strong connection to working with children and families. She values the opportunity to support those who help others and finds great satisfaction in contributing behind the scenes to make a meaningful difference.
Her approachable and organised nature helps ensure day-to-day operations run seamlessly, allowing the team to focus on delivering high-quality care.
Outside of work, Leanne enjoys spending time with her family, travelling, and sharing adventures with friends. A trip to Iceland to see the Northern Lights is next on her bucket list.
Qualifications
© 2026 Avanti Therapy
