Riya Saini

• Delivered person-centered support to NDIS participants with autism, psychosocial disability, and complex needs.
• Collaborated with allied health professionals (OTs, psychologists, behavior practitioners) to develop and implement individualized support plans.
• Conducted case noting, report writing, and plan implementation aligned with the NDIS Price Guide and AASW Practice Standards.
• Supported participants to enhance independence and community participation.
• Contributed to a staff well-being research project to promote organizational resilience and reflective practice.

Key Skills: case management, NDIS plan coordination, reflective practice, documentation, advocacy, and professional communication.

• Conducted research into Pasifika cultural values and their integration into digital well-being interventions for incarcerated individuals.
• Explored culturally responsive engagement tools for inmates and their families to support rehabilitation and reconnection.
• Co-developed concepts for a culturally safe app, promoting digital well-being and family connection.
• Conducted field visits to Parklea Correctional Centre for qualitative interviews and cultural insights.

Key Skills: Research design, cultural competence, data analysis, ethical research, collaboration, and academic writing.

• I worked under Dr. Praveen Suman Mehta is in the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Child Protection Services.
• Conducted developmental and behavioral assessments using DSM-5 criteria for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and developmental delays.
• Facilitated play-based observation and early intervention sessions to assess social, emotional, and communication development.
• Assisted in parent counseling and psychoeducation sessions, supporting family-based care planning.
• Participated in multidisciplinary child protection meetings, and contributed to ethical case documentation.

Key Skills: Developmental assessment, child protection, parent counseling, DSM-5 formulation, empathy, collaborative care.