About me

I'm Beth Paterson - a qualified registered Occupational Therapist, based in Hertford Heath, Hertfordshire, UK.

I have several years of experience working with neurodivergent children in various settings, including home visits, clinics and holiday clubs.

I have lived experience growing up supporting a sibling with learning disabilities.

I initially qualified as a solicitor before working in various roles with children and adults with disabilities and in mental health. I also have an MSc in Psychology from Newman University Birmingham.

After working as an OT in a paediatric private practice in Essex, I set up Gentle Steps Occupational Therapy in 2025 to provide a flexible needs-led service for neurodivergent children and their families.

I have two children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) including autism and ADHD. As an SEN parent, I have a good understanding of the challenges of parenting neurodivergent children.

About Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy (OT) focuses on daily tasks which children need or want to do. This can include developing independence with skills like washing or dressing, mealtimes, sleep, play and social interaction.

As an OT, I assess your child's abilities to carry out these activities but also if there are any other factors affecting their ability to engage. This can include attention, emotional regulation, their developmental age and anything in their environment which is causing difficulties.

My experience and expertise

I have experience helping children diagnosed or awaiting assessment for the following conditions:

Autistic Spectrum Disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder
Sensory Processing Difficulties
Dyspraxia
Learning Disabilities
Global Developmental Delay
Down's Syndrome and other genetic conditions
Speech and Language Disorders

I have experience with assessment, planning and implementing individual and group OT sessions and conducting progress reviews.

I also have experience writing reports with details of childrens' strengths and needs, plus advice and recommendations, including for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

I can offer support with the following areas:

Sensory processing difficulties
Emotional regulation and challenging behaviours
Self-care including personal hygiene, dressing and washing
Toileting and nappy changing
Play and leisure activities
Mobility, seating and positioning
Sleeping and naps
School-based tasks including handwriting, organisational skills and time management
Gross motor skills (whole body movements) and fine motor skills (using hands, fingers and wrists)