MEET ELISSA

Elissa Plumridge BBus GradDipEd MAut

Developmental Educator - registered member of Developmental Educators Australia Inc

Elissa brings a depth of experience and passion to her Developmental Educator role, providing therapy and support to people of all ages, helping them achieve success in many aspects of life.

By combining her qualifications (Master of Autism) and personal insight as an autistic woman and mum of two children, Elissa draws on a wealth of professional and practical knowledge and understanding when supporting her clients and their families.

Elissa understands disability from a personal perspective, and prides herself on providing evidence-based support that embraces neurodivergence. She takes a holistic approach when working with her clients, that encompasses skill building and environmental adjustment, whilst focusing on developing her clients’ self-determination, and confidence in who they are.

In addition to her work with individuals and families, Elissa currently has a research assistant / course development role at the University of Wollongong, developing a curriculum for university staff to support them in better understanding and supporting neurodivergent students in tertiary settings.

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About DE

ELISSA'S BACKGROUND

Providing assessment and therapeutic skill building support for children, teens and adults in practical aspects of daily living, healthy relationships, social and emotional skills, independent living, and in preparing for and transitioning through change.
Teaching at the University of Wollongong, in the Master of Autism program.
Developing, coordinating and facilitating social self-determination programs (individual and group) for all ages – children through to adults.
Consulting and workshop facilitating – supporting professionals, families and individuals in building their understanding of autism and disability.
Facilitating autism specific groups for young children and parents.

“Through my work, it is my goal to support people to better understand themselves. When we build our self-awareness, we are better able to decide what we want from life, and to work out how to make that happen! I have learned that one of the best things we can do for ourselves is to be authentic and real, in every part of how we live our lives. In my world, there’s no fitting into the mold, there’s just ‘working out what’s right for me’.”