Bio: Dr. Celiané van der Westhuizen is an occupational therapist and the founder of Growth Occupational Therapy, which she started in 2018. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Pretoria in 2015 and, after completing her compulsory community service year, immediately pursued her passion for working in the paediatric field.

Celiané earned her post-professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University at the end of 2024, accompanied by an advanced practice certificate in autism. She is also trained in Ayres Sensory Integration and has completed additional training in infant massage and the therapeutic use of play to support emotional wellbeing (also known as “play therapy”).

With her bubbly and friendly personality, Celiané creates a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe to grow and thrive. She is deeply passionate about early childhood development and believes in building a strong foundation to help each child reach their full potential.

Outside work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, their baby girl, and their dogs. Her hobbies include catching up on her favorite shows, making music, staying active, and spending time in nature. A fun fact: she loves Winnie the Pooh and admires his humbleness and loyalty – qualities she strives to embody both personally and professionally