Our Team
Shae Gillmartin
Founder
Speech Pathologist
Facilitator
Counsellor
I've been working in health and therapy for more than 20 years. My journey began with a realisation of the universal right for individuals to communicate and the pivotal role this plays in connection and overall well-being. This awareness became key in my professional values and how I work. I see communication as a primary skill for diverse aspects of life, such as school, work, study, relationships, and friendships.
Throughout my speech pathology career, I became focused on a personal and professional commitment to refining my own communication style. I noticed that truly understanding clients improved their engagement and capacity to make positive changes. This intuitive approach led me to pursue further training in non-violent communication (compassionate communication) and motivational interviewing, providing a theoretical framework to complement my natural inclinations.
Over the years, my expertise expanded beyond individual consultations to encompass group work facilitation. Recognising the significance of cognitive and communication skills within team dynamics, I undertook an Advanced Diploma in Group Facilitation in 2015. This transformative experience broadened my skill set, empowering me to facilitate positive change personally and professionally. Today, I apply this extensive background to offer individual communication coaching, couples counselling, and workplace training.
My commitment to effective communication is vital in creating connections within Insight Speech as a workplace. I prioritise staff well-being, recognise learning styles, and enjoy observing continuous growth. By fostering a team culture built on empathy, open communication, and support, I aim to create an environment where each team member feels valued and can develop personally and professionally.
I firmly believe that thoughtful and empathetic conversations can positively impact lives, relationships, and workplaces. By starting with the people I work with, whether in individual or group settings, I aim to contribute to creating better outcomes within my immediate sphere and on a broader scale.
Qualifications
- 2021 Diploma of Counselling
- 2015 Advanced Diploma of Group Facilitation
- 1999 Bachelor of Speech Pathology
- 1995 Bachelor of Arts (major sociology and legal studies)
Further Training
- Collaborative and Proactive Solutions
- PEERS Certified
- Certified to administer ADOS-2
- Non-Violent Communication
- Motivational Interviewing
- Tuning Into Kids
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Alex Ellis
Speech Pathologist
I have always wanted to work in a job that allowed me to help others. For a long time, I wanted to be a primary school teacher, but found that I preferred one-on-one interactions with students and having time to give my full attention and build rapport with them. Through other jobs I’ve had, I found that I also enjoy working with adults and teens, as well as young children. In my last year of high school, these factors guided me to look into speech pathology as a career, and I haven’t looked back since.
My personal journey has also shaped my professional path. As the older sibling of a brother with autism and ADHD, I have witnessed firsthand the obstacles neurodiverse individuals and families experience from early childhood to adulthood. I continue to support my brother and family in navigating the NDIS and the day-to-day challenges that arise. Additionally, I have my own lived experience with neurodiversity, having been diagnosed with ADHD at 22 years old. This allows me to empathise with clients on a personal level and work together to find strategies and supports that work for them.
My family moved around a lot when I was young, but I spent most of my childhood in Griffith, NSW. After high school, I moved to Albury to study at Charles Sturt University and have stayed in the region since graduating in 2022. Outside of work, I love to spend my time on creative hobbies. I enjoy baking, sewing, knitting, and learning new skills for different projects.
I love that my role as a speech pathologist is so diverse and allows me to connect with people on a deep level. As a new graduate, I haven’t yet found my ‘niche’, but have really enjoyed supporting and learning from my clients of all ages and walks of life. I love getting to know clients and creating goals that are relevant and significant for them, then working together so that they can achieve those goals.
Qualifications
- 2021 Bachelor or Health Science (Speech Pathology)
Further Training
- Autism and Gender Identity
- Understanding the “why” of behaviour - An intersection between sensory processing, trauma, and autism.
Kat Wadley
Allied Health Assistant
My professional background is diverse, starting in automotive trade school before transitioning to hospitality and then nursing. About 4 years ago, I made a deliberate move into allied health, working with occupational therapists primarily in psychosocial support. I am now at Insight Speech, and I am enthusiastic about collaborating with speech pathologists and expanding my knowledge on all things communication-related.
My approach to therapy is grounded in building genuine connections, emphasising the importance of trust and comfort for positive outcomes. My desire to learn is unwavering. I'm studying for a counselling diploma to broaden my skills and better understand the needs of those I serve. My desire to learn is unwavering. I am further expanding my skill set to support and better understand the needs of those I serve and currently pursuing a diploma in counselling. My eclectic journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to providing holistic and person-driven care as an allied health assistant.
Outside of work, I am a dedicated parent, enjoy weekend drives in my 63 Chrysler, love car and motorsport photography and love the company of my ever-present canine friend, Max.
Qualifications and Further Training
- Certificate IV in Nursing
- Certificate in Mental Nursing & Assessment
- Certificate in Acute Nursing
- Certificate in Emergency Nursing
- Currently completing Diploma of Counselling