About
Vikki Pestell is a Specialist Occupational Therapist with over 13 years’ experience working across NHS and specialist services with children, young people and adults.​​ She began her career in community paediatrics and quickly developed a particular interest in supporting Autistic individuals, especially in understanding how sensory processing differences impact everyday life.​ Vikki has worked across a wide range of settings, including mainstream and specialist schools, inpatient services and specialist Autism assessment teams.
Areas of Expertise
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Sensory processing differences
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Sensory integration and regulation
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Developmental Coordination Disorder (dyspraxia)
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Functional skills and everyday participation
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Supporting children, young people and adults
Vikki's Approach To Work
Vikki works in a practical and person-centred way, helping individuals and families understand how sensory differences affect daily life, including comfort, attention, regulation and participation.​​ She focuses on identifying both strengths and challenges, providing clear and practical strategies that support individuals at home, in education and in the wider community.​ Her work plays an important role within the Multi-Disciplinary assessment process, contributing to a fuller understanding of each person’neurodevelopmental profile.​ Vikki’s work often helps individuals and families make sense of experiences that may have previously felt confusing or overwhelming.
Specialist Training
Vikki has completed further specialist training in:​
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Advanced Sensory Integration Practice
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Sensory attachment
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The “Just Right State” programme
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Assessment and treatment of Developmental Coordination Disorder (Dyspraxia UK)
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Autism Clinical Interview (Adults)
Qualifications
BSc (Hons), PGCert
Client
Autism North East are a warm and welcoming team of professionals who immediately put you at ease and make you feel listened to and accepted.
Client
I recently completed an autism assessment at Autism North East, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the care and professionalism shown throughout the entire process
Parent
From the very first contact, the staff were warm, respectful, and accommodating. The intake process was clear and thoughtfully designed, allowing me to share relevant background information in a way that felt supportive.
Parent
All clinicians who conducted the assessments appeared knowledgeable, patient, and compassionate. They created a safe and non-judgemental environment, which made it much easier to open up and engage fully in the process.
