ABOUT US
Avanza Rehab commenced operation in 2017 offering Case Management and Occupational Therapy services. We specialize in offering services to people with severe injuries after motor vehicle accidents and workplace injuries. We travel all over NSW and ACT for one off assessments and therapy. Our staff have diverse clinical skills and experience with Lifetime Care and Support, Workerscare and CTP schemes.
We provide assessments and treatment for people with complex injuries following motor vehicle accidents and workplace injuries. We also provide assessments and treatment for people with disabilities including neurological disorders and vision impairments.
We are registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency AHPRA and members of Occupational Therapy Australia.
KATE POLLARD
Kate is our Director at Avanza Rehab, and works in Case Management and Occupational Therapy. Kate has been working as a case manager since 2008 and has been an Occupational Therapist since 1989. She worked at Access Brain Injury Services in Sydney from September 2008. Prior to that Kate worked at Allianz CTP managing a team of rehabilitation advisors who worked with people with complex and catastrophic injuries.
Kate is a registered Occupational Therapist and has qualifications in Rehabilitation Counselling, primary education and a Masters in Linguistics having lived overseas in South America for many years. She speaks Spanish fluently.
Kate has extensive experience in paediatrics having worked with children with cerebral palsy, vision impairments and neurological conditions at the Spastic Society of Victoria, Vision Australia and overseas in private practice and in schools. She also has experience with people with vision impairments and blindness.
ABBY COMER
Abby is our Senior Occupational Therapist at Avanza Rehab., Abby is based in the Northern Beaches and completed her PGDip in Occupational Therapy in Scotland in 2004 after first completing a BSc in Psychology. Over the years she has worked in the UK, New Zealand and Australia in a wide variety of roles.
Specialising in Neuro rehab in recent years she has an in-depth knowledge of minor and major home modifications, equipment provision and cognitive and physical rehab. Abby is FIM accredited and proficient in a range of standardised cognitive assessments (e.g. MOCA, OCS, CMOP, Rookwood, Needle) she has a strong functional approach to rehab and enjoys working with a range of cases and complexities.
SAMANAH GOKEH
We’re excited to introduce Samaneh Mirzaei, the latest addition to our Statewide Rehab team as an Occupational Therapist. Stationed at our Rooty Hills office, Samaneh has an impressive academic background, having earned her Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Canberra in 2024, following her Bachelor’s degree in Midwifery from Iran.
Samaneh’s diverse professional experience spans from midwifery to disability support work, and now as a newly graduated Occupational Therapist. She has had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of clients, including those dealing with paediatric, neurological, physical, and mental health conditions.
Passionate about helping individuals live their best lives, Samaneh is dedicated to breaking down barriers and helping clients reach their goals in a collaborative, client-centered setting. She places great importance on building strong relationships with both clients and their families, creating a supportive environment that is conducive to achieving their goals.
COLLEEN FULLER
Colleen Fuller is our dedicated Office Manager with over 10 years of experience in disability administration and group program management. Colleen’s proficiency extends beyond traditional office management, as she also adeptly handles social media and website management. Her ability to navigate the digital landscape has proven invaluable in maintaining a strong online presence and fostering communication. With her comprehensive skill set and commitment to excellence, Colleen continues to make significant contributions in her field. Her blend of administrative expertise and digital acumen sets her apart, making her a vital asset to our team.
DEBORAH CAUCHI
Debbie Cauchi brings a wealth of administrative experience to the table. She spent 12 years working in the NSW Police Service as an executive assistant. In addition to her professional background, Debbie is a devoted parent to three children, all of whom were born with additional needs, primarily Autism Spectrum Disorder. Her firsthand experience navigating the challenges of parenting children with special requirements has given her a deep understanding of the needs of individuals on the spectrum and those with other diagnoses. She also has experience with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) from a parent’s perspective.
