About Us
At ChelleCare, our mission is to empower individuals of all ages whose lives are impacted by their diagnosis or by a change in ability, seeking to improve their quality of life. We seek to allow individuals to live as independently as possible while maintaining or developing important connections to family, friends and the wider community.
Operated and owned by locals to the Southwest of WA, we enjoy working with a range of clients across the Southwest, Great Southern, and Peel regions of WA, bringing clear advice and a deep sense of understanding and empathy to all of our clients.
At ChelleCare, we take a multi-disciplinary approach, working closely with your GP, therapeutic supports or other allied health professionals to ensure our strategies and solutions are the most complete and cost-effective.
Our Values
Empathy
We recognise that every person brings a unique story, culture, and lived experience.
We listen first, respond with care, and treat every individual with dignity and respect.
What this means for you?
You’ll feel heard, understood, and supported without judgement.
Holistic
We work closely with GPs, allied health professionals, clients, and families to create integrated, holistic support plans.
What this means for you?
Better communication, fewer gaps, and coordinated care that actually works.
Transparent
We provide transparent pricing, clear advice, and predictable planning around funding, therapy schedules, and supports.
What this means for you?
Fewer surprises and confidence about what comes next.
Practical
Our focus is on building skills, confidence, and independence — at home, work, and in the community.
What this means for you?
Practical strategies that help you live more safely and independently.
Accessible
We are committed to delivering high-quality services across regional and underserved communities.
What this means for you?
Access to professional OT services, closer to home
Meet the Team
Founder & Senior Occupational Therapist
Michelle Hopa
Michelle has over 13 years industry experience across a range of fields and with a diverse group of clients.
She has a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy, is OT Driver Assessor qualified and extensive experience in functional capacity assessments, home modifications, assistive technology, vocational rehabilitation, ergonomics and capacity building therapy with a passion for working with the neurodiverse community.
Practice Administrator
New member to be announced!
New member of the team to be announced in the coming weeks!
Business & Operations
Chris Hopa
Chris is co-founder and the Business & Operations Manager for ChelleCare with over 13 years of experience in Corporate Restructuring and business banking.
He is a Chartered Accountant with a Bachelor of Commerce and has spent over a decade assisting a range of small to medium sized business restructure and optimise.
He is passionate about achieving improved outcomes for participants in the NDIS and Aged Care sectors and to empower individuals of all ages whose lives are impacted by their diagnosis or by a change in ability, seeking to improve their quality of life.
Occupational Therapist
Lani Ashford
Lani is an Occupational Therapist who graduated in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Occupational Therapy. Originally from the UK, her experience spans community mental health, aged care and disability support across both the UK and Australia.
Lani has worked with individuals across the lifespan, with particular interest and experience in surf therapy, having most recently delivered 1:1 ocean-based NDIS sessions with children with a range of neurodevelopmental and physical disabilities. She is also a qualified surf coach and previously helped establish surf, yoga and cold water therapy groups within community mental health services in the UK.
Lani is passionate about movement, nature-based and person-centred approaches, and believes therapy is most powerful when it feels meaningful and fun.
Outside of work, Lani enjoys surfing, netball, exercise classes and anything ocean-based, all of which reflect her active and holistic approach to health and wellbeing.
Occupational Therapist
Nicola Stewart
Nicola is an Occupational Therapist with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Occupational Therapy and over 9 years of experience working within the disability sector.
Nicola has worked with individuals across the lifespan, with particular interest and experience in paediatrics. She supports people with a range of neurological and neurodevelopmental conditions.
Nicola is also trained in hippotherapy and enjoys incorporating creative, movement-based and person-centred approaches into her practice, particularly when working with children and individuals with complex needs.
She is passionate about making a genuine difference in people’s lives and supporting them to reach their goals in ways that feel empowering and achievable.
Outside of work, Nicola enjoys Pilates, spending time at the beach, connecting with family and friends, and relaxing with her new puppy, Daisy — all of which support her balanced and holistic approach to health and wellbeing."
Occupational Therapist
Frances Parkhowel
Frances is an Occupational Therapist with a Master’s degree in occupational therapy and over 8 years of experience supporting children and young adults within the disability sector.
She has specialises in capacity building and supporting neurodivergent individuals, as well as those living with mental ill health, Down syndrome and acquired brain injury, as well as completing Functional Capacity Assessments.
Frances also has experience with gerontology rehabilitation, transitional care, private paediatrics and workplace rehabilitation, bringing a broad and holistic perspective to each client she supports.
Frances is passionate about supporting people to build independence, confidence and participation through practical, pragmatic and person-centred care.
Senior Occupational Therapist
Cathy Philips
Cathy is a Senior Occupational Therapist and consults to ChelleCare regularly, bringing 10 years of complex home modifications experience, as well as detailed knowledge with DVA and home care packages.
She is a registered Occupational Therapist AHPRA with a Masters in Occupational Therapy.
Cathy has worked in post-acute programs, community health, as well as neurological disorders and many other disabilities, with a strong interest in complex home modifications and SDA assessments.
Cathy is passionate about making a difference in people's lives and her holistic approach combines her knowledge of therapy, education, and business to deliver comprehensive support to both participants and co-workers.
Allied Health Assistant
Amy Schoof
Amy is qualified in Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance.
Born and raised in Busselton, she has always wanted a role where she can make a difference in people lives and so loves having the opportunity to do this in her local community.
Amy enjoys the variety of being able to work with people of all ages and is especially passionate about working with children and teenagers to help them navigate through changes in their life.
Outside of work, Amy enjoys playing netball, working on a craft project and spending time at the beach.
Allied Health Assistant
Jodi van Niekerk
Jodi has TAFE Certificates in both Allied Health Assistance and in Fitness, bringing experience in events, lifeguarding and gym instructing. These roles reflect her passion for helping others, building their confidence, and adapting to their needs.
Outside of work, Jodi enjoys art, fitness and spending time at the beach. Her personal interests give her insight into how leisure, movement, and creative activities can support motivation, confidence, and independence.
Now Hiring!
We’re looking for motivated, talented people to join our team. If you’re passionate about making a difference and growing your career, explore our current opportunities opposite.
Don’t see a role that fits? We’d still love to hear from you.
Send your CV to chris@chellecare.com.au
Occupational Therapist
Flexible and Impactful Role
Are you an Occupational Therapist based in the Bunbury area looking to make a real impact while enjoying an enviable lifestyle? We are a dynamic, fast-growing provider dedicated to supporting the diverse Southwest community.
We believe that to take the best care of our clients, we must take the best care of our team.
Join us and experience a workplace where culture, growth, and community go hand-in-hand.
For further details please contact chris@chellecare.com.au
ChelleCare
SERVICES
Occupational Therapy for families across the South West of WA.
📍 Suite 2, 258 Bussell Highway, West Busselton, WA
📞 (08) 6383 7811
