Introduction to Sensory Processing

Dr Michelle Newby, PhD is a recognised leader in paediatric occupational therapy, combining clinical practice, research, teaching, and professional mentoring. She holds a Bachelor of Health Science (Occupational Therapy), a Master of Science with Distinction in Health and Social Research, and a PhD in Occupational Therapy. Her doctoral research investigated sensory processing and developmental challenges in children with Paediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS). With over 25 years of international clinical experience across Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, Azerbaijan, and China, Michelle is both a researcher and practising clinician with a specialist interest in complex neurodevelopmental presentations, including autism, ADHD, PANS/PANDAS, Tourette syndrome, developmental coordination disorder, and developmental trauma. She is currently engaged as a Clinical Lecturer at the University of Newcastle, Australia, and continues to provide assessment and intervention for children and families in her clinical practice. An international speaker, Michelle has presented her research and clinical work at conferences in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Brazil, the United States, and Australia. She is also a highly sought-after mentor, providing clinical supervision and professional guidance to occupational therapists across Australia, supporting evidence-based, neurodiversity-affirming, and participation-focused practice.