Ms Shireen Solker

Ms Shireen Solker is an experienced Occupational Therapist and ADOS-2/ADI-R Assessor at Priory Bristol Park Clinic. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Cape Town, South Africa, in 1995. During her time at the esteemed Groote Schuur Hospital, Shireen gained extensive clinical experience across various areas of occupational therapy (OT). She also served as a lecturer at the University of Cape Town, specialising in neurology, where she was actively involved in the academic support program and supervised students. In addition, Shireen co-owned a private OT practice, providing therapeutic interventions for both adults and children.

After relocating to the UK in 2001, Shireen took a career break to focus on raising her young family. Upon returning to work, she developed a keen interest in paediatric OT, particularly in supporting autistic children within school settings.

Shireen further advanced her expertise by earning a Postgraduate Certificate in Sensory Integration from Ulster University through the Sensory Integration Network. She is passionate about understanding how sensory experiences influence our functioning, learning, work, and engagement in various environments. Shireen's practice is grounded in a holistic approach, considering the physical, social, emotional, sensory, and cognitive needs of the individuals she supports.

In addition to her direct work with autistic individuals, Shireen provides training and guidance to families and schools, helping them to develop a more comprehensive understanding of those they support. She is dedicated to supporting neurodivergent individuals and continually enhances her knowledge and skills through ongoing professional development. With extensive experience in educational settings, the NHS, and the private sector, Shireen has gained valuable insights into the unique profiles of neurodivergent individuals through diagnostic assessments. To further refine her practice, she has completed advanced training in the use of gold-standard autism diagnostic tools, including ADOS-2 and ADI-R.