Paula Murphy – Balham & Virtual Groups
Paula Murphy is an neuro-occupational therapist who trained and worked in New Zealand as an occupational therapist. Paula has 20 years experience working in the NHS and private sector in the UK, specialising in neuro rehabilitation. She current works in private practice in the community, working with and supporting individuals with neurological conditions and has a special interest in brain injury. Outside of work Paula enjoys travelling, sport and watching rugby.
Dr Noelle Blake – Wimbledon Group
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Neuropsychologist. I qualified in Ireland and worked for six years in Adult Mental Health services in Ireland and the UK. I developed an interest in acquired brain injury and neurological conditions at an early stage of my career, partly through the rewards of working with people with brain injury but also because of personal family experience. Between 1990 and 2014 I worked as a Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist in Sutton, Wandsworth and Croydon, primarily working in Community Neurorehabilitation and Assessment services. I enjoy working with groups and sharing knowledge and rehabilitation skills that help people feel more in control of their lives and optimistic about making positive changes.
In February 2014 I left my role in the NHS to work independently. Since then I have worked in independent practice as a clinical neuropsychologist. I also work as a tutor at the University of Surrey. I live in South London with my husband and energetic Irish Red Setter dog. I have two grown up daughters. In my spare time I enjoy yoga, singing, going to the cinema and theatre and shopping with my daughters.
Helen Burnham – Wimbledon Group
I am a neuro-occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience working in Australia and the UK. For the last 10 years I have worked at Kingston Hospital in the Acute Stroke Unit. I am also qualified Swimming Teacher and have a keen interest in swimming and running. My daughter lives in Australia, so love to travel. I am very much looking forward in being involved in the Wimbledon Group.
Michelle Davies – Croydon Group
I am a neuro-occupational therapist with over 10 years qualified experience, currently working at St. George’s Hospital in Tooting. I joined Headway in 2015 facilitating the then newly formed Croydon Group. I spend most of my spare time at my allotment but also enjoy camping, mountain biking, surfing and snowboarding.
Laura Slader – Richmond Group
I started working as a facilitator for Richmond Group in 2015 when the group began. I look forward to the monthly meetings as it brings together such interesting and inspiring individuals who are living with their brain injuries. Often people attend with their partners or family members and the group is incredibly supportive. Everyone is happy to share information, offer advice or just listen, and find comfort from the stories shared.
I am a neurological specialist occupational therapist and work both in private practise, charitable services, and do some contract work with the NHS at St Georges Hospital, Tooting. I predominantly assess and treat individuals who have sustained head injuries and are returned to their homes from hospital and require rehabilitation in their homes.
I live locally and have 3 children who are all at local schools. I love being near Richmond Park and Bushy Park and can often be found on my bike enjoying the outside life. I also love yoga and practise mindfulness to help me manage my busy life.
Abigail Dry – Richmond Group
I began working as a facilitator for the Richmond Group in the fall of 2021. It is such a pleasure and privilege to participate in the monthly meetings, listening to the group members share their stories, their experiences and build our shared knowledge in a supportive space.
I am an occupational therapist working as a case manager in neurological rehabilitation in private practice. I have worked in brain injury rehabilitation for more than 15 years. Outside of work, I’m busy with my family, playing squash and enjoying classical music.
Freddie Byrne – Richmond Group
I am a clinical psychologist passionate about supporting families living with acquired brain injury. I’ve worked across residential and community settings, as well as in teaching and research roles. At the moment I work in independent practice, supporting brain injury survivors and their families living in the community.I started as a group facilitator in August 2023 and have been enjoying getting to know the group. It’s been lovely to see such an encouraging and accepting atmosphere.When I’m not at work I enjoy being with friends and family and walking in nature.