Cathy Hill



Occupational Therapist

Cathy is an experienced occupational therapist with a focus on mental health and cognitive challenges. She holds a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy from the University of Queensland and has worked in psychiatry, rehabilitation, and community integration. Since 1978, Cathy has supported individuals with serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders, with a focus on community integration, employment, and supporting parents with mental illness.

Cathy is a lead practitioner in the Allen Cognitive Disabilities Model (ACDM) and has delivered workshops across Australia and New Zealand. She specialises in assessing cognitive abilities in individuals with long-term mental health issues and creating tailored support strategies for daily living.

With expertise in trauma, neurodivergence, and NDIS support, Cathy practices in a neurodivergent-affirming way, helping clients navigate the intersections of mental health, disability, and trauma. She has a strong research background, having worked at the Queensland Centre for Schizophrenia Research and contributed to textbooks on the Cognitive Disabilities Model. Cathy is also a director of Karakan, a not-for-profit supporting individuals with mental health challenges. Her commitment to evidence-based practices and the social determinants of occupational engagement makes her a respected professional in her field.