Who We Are – Meet the Abil-OT Team

Private Paediatric Occupational Therapy in Newry

We’re a team of experienced private Occupational Therapists based just outside Newry City, supporting families across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Our mission is simple: to create positive, meaningful outcomes for every child or young person who comes through our doors.

Our Expertise

We have a special interest in neurodiversity, with both personal and professional experience working alongside individuals with:

• Dyspraxia / Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)

• Autism

• ADHD

• Epilepsy

• Dyslexia

• Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

Our approach is neuroaffirmative — we recognise and value different ways of thinking, learning, and experiencing the world. Therapy is built on your child’s strengths, interests, and goals.

Our Experience

Between us, we have extensive experience working in both the public and private sectors, North and South of the border.
We are fully registered with:

• HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) – UK

• CORU – Ireland

This means we meet the highest professional standards and are recognised by multiple private health insurers.

Meet the Team

Shauna McShane – Lead Occupational Therapist
Founder of Abil-OT and an experienced paediatric OT with a background in both the NHS and private practice. Specialises in sensory processing, autism, and motor skills development. Passionate about helping children feel understood and capable.

Caitlin McManus – Occupational Therapist
Paediatric OT with expertise in handwriting, fine motor skills, and emotional regulation. Brings creativity and energy to every session, ensuring therapy is engaging and fun.