Orsolya (Orsi) Farkas

Director of Service Development/Senior Conductor

Orsi’s first connection to CPotential was working at the Centre’s summer camp in 2013. Shortly after followed her desire to live life as a Londoner and officially joined the Muswell Hill team in 2014, working as a Conductor and SEN Teacher.

Orsi underwent training in Conductive Education and Primary Teaching at the International Peto Institute (now Semmelweis University, Andras Peto Faculty) in Hungary, subsequently transitioning to a role at the National Institute of Conductive Education (NICE) in Birmingham.

Over the years, Orsi has gained a wealth of experience working with children and young people with complex needs around the globe. She has worked privately with families, delivered intensive therapy blocks in the USA, Norway, France and Ireland, and has extensive Special Educational Needs (SEN) teaching experience.

For several years Orsi led our multidisciplinary team as Clinical Services Manager, guiding our hard-working and fun clinicians to work in a fully integrated approach, setting combined goals across therapy sessions to enable each child to reach their full potential. She was also our lead clinical assessor for EXOPULSE Molli Suit.

In February 2024, Orsi’s role has now taken a sharper focus on key developmental projects, such as; Transition Services, and identifying the need for improved service provision in children transitioning to adulthood. She also supervises the Conductive Education service.

Here at CPotential we work with children with various abilities, skills and diagnoses. They are all amazing, and they give us the greatest daily reward – that we can be part of their developmental journey. The families are fabulous and play a huge part in partnering closely with us to help the children achieve all that they possibly can.”

In her spare time, Orsi loves spending time with her friends and family. 

Sakshi Nair

Clinical Services Manager / Highly Specialist Paediatric Physiotherapist

Sakshi joined us in 2023 after completing her bachelor’s degree from Sancheti College of Physiotherapy in India.

She has always been interested in working at a Paediatric setup as her mother runs an integrated special school in India and she has been associated with it for a long time now.

Therefore, joining CPotential feels like home as they provide various integrated services. Growing up with an older brother with Autism has made me truly believe in providing a holistic approach for the betterment of the child and parents. Additionally, I have also completed a fellowship program in Paediatric Neurorehabilitation from India and an MSc in Physiotherapy from Cardiff University.

In her spare time, Sakshi loves to travel and cook different Indian cuisines.

Paula Godfrey

Consultant Paediatric Occupational Therapist

Paula trained at Oxford Brookes University in a BSC in Occupational Therapy (OT). She is a member of the Royal College of OTs, including being a committee member on the specialist section of Children, Young People and Families (CYPF) for London. She is also fully registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)

Paula has completed several post-graduate training courses and likes to draw on a range of strategies to engage and support children with motor disorders – trying to find the right integrative approach for the child and family.

Her post-graduate training includes:

• Sensory Integration practitioner with the Sensory Integration network
• Further integrative and specialist training in sensory integration, e.g., sensory attachment intervention to support families with the impact of trauma (including the impact of medical trauma) and training in Infant Sense Integration to children under two in key areas of sleep, feeding, relationships and play.

Other training related to children’s everyday activities such as the sequential oral sensory approach (SOS) in assessing and treating children with feeding difficulties including children with restricted diets and upper limb skills including being trained in CIMT and bimanual skills for children with motor disorders.

As an OT, Paula feels passionate about supporting children’s participation in activities and routines that they need and want to do to enjoy life, like feeding, learning at school and playing with peers.  She loves working as part of the multi-disciplinary team at CPotential where the therapists work together and share ideas from all of our different perspectives to support the children and families. Working with our children at CPotential keeps Paula creative and motivated, and always learning.  The children and families keep Paula coming back to work!

In my spare time I drag myself to the gym! In pre-covid times I loved to travel and explore new places in the UK and abroad. I also love my two cats!

Nicole Cash

Consultant Paediatric Physiotherapist

With over 25 years of experience working in paediatric physiotherapy, Nicole’s passion for brain injury rehabilitation has seen her gain experience in the NHS, the Portland Hospital, and abroad. Currently working at Evelina London Children’s Hospital as the physiotherapy lead for neuro-rehabilitation.

Nicole followed with a physiotherapy qualification in Bristol, a BA in health management in New Hampshire USA, and completed a Masters in Neurological Rehabilitation at Leeds Metropolitan University. She has a keen interest in research and has represented her teams (presented posters) at conferences in Dublin, London, The Hague, and New York.

Growing up with a younger brother with Cerebral Palsy I have first hand experience of the needs of the family and am passionate about the multidisciplinary approach that is offered at CPotential. Delighted to be part of a team that is close to my heart and close to my home.

Outside of work, Nicole loves sports and the outdoors, spending time with her family and her dog!

Ruth Hunston BMus MMT

Highly Specialist Music Therapist

Ruth has a Bachelors and Masters degree in Music Therapy, carrying out her training at highly acclaimed Nordoff Robbins.

Ruth loves working at CPotential because she gets to work directly with families.

One of the best things about being a music therapist is witnessing children being creative and playful and seeing them discover new strengths and skills.

In Ruth’s spare time, she can be found baking and going for walks in the woods!

Jessica Grieve MMT

Music Therapist

Jess trained at Roehampton University for her Music Therapy MA and has worked in a variety of settings since graduating, including perinatal mental health, special education, and early years settings.

Having worked mainly with older people and community development in my previous career, I enjoy focusing on children and families as a music therapist.

In Jess’s spare time, she is a songwriter and likes getting out to the countryside whenever possible.

Asfia Akber

Paediatric Physiotherapist

Meet Asfia, one of our Paediatric Physiotherapists, who brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our team.

Asfia’s journey in physiotherapy began with a degree from Dow University of Health Sciences. During her house job, she discovered a deep interest in paediatrics, which led her to complete a specialised paediatric residency program at Aga Khan University Hospital in Pakistan, in collaboration with Drexel University, Philadelphia. She later pursued a Master’s in Advanced Neuromusculoskeletal Practice from the University of Nottingham.

With experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, Asfia has worked closely with children with neurological, cardiopulmonary, and developmental conditions. She is dedicated to enhancing their quality of life through evidence-based physiotherapy interventions.

Asfia joined CPotential to be part of a team that provides holistic care for children and their families. She is excited to continue developing her skills and delivering the highest standard of support to the children we work with.

Outside of work, Asfia enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Cassie Amon

Paediatric Occupational Therapist

Cassie is a newly qualified Occupational Therapist who completed her MSc in Occupational Therapy at Brunel University in 2026, after earning a BSc in Psychology from Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, USA. She is registered with the HCPC and is a member of the RCOT.

Cassie is passionate about supporting children with neurological and developmental conditions to build independence and confidence through meaningful, play-based therapy. She has a particular interest in helping children develop motor control, coordination, and functional skills in a way that feels motivating and engaging.

I value working closely with families and as part of a multidisciplinary team to create holistic, individualised therapy plans that support each child’s unique goals.

Outside of work, Cassie enjoys creative hobbies, including cross-stitch and knitting, and loves travelling, trying new foods, and exploring new places.

Willem Van Woerdekom

Specialist Conductor

Will joined the CPotential team in 2020 after completing his degree in Conductive Education at the National Institute of Conductive Education (NICE). Over the years, Will has developed knowledge in a range of approaches, including DMI and Makaton. He has also worked in other settings, including one-to-one support in schools and at home, and spent three months working as a conductor in the United States.

Will is passionate about supporting individuals to reach their full potential and helping them get the most out of life.

In his spare time, Will enjoys travelling around the world, playing video and board games with friends, and discovering new places and cuisines.

Chelsea Easter-Cross

Conductor

Chelsea graduated from the National Institute of Conductive Education (NICE) in Birmingham in 2020 with a BA (Hons) in Conductive Education. Following her qualification, she worked as a private Conductor, supporting families during the COVID-19 pandemic and delivering individualised programmes in a home-based setting. This experience strengthened her ability to adapt Conductive Education principles to meet each learner’s unique needs while building strong, supportive relationships with families.

Chelsea went on to complete her PGCE, becoming a qualified teacher and further developing her skills in planning, assessment, and inclusive practice. She began her career as a Conductor-Teacher in a special educational needs early years setting, where she supported young children to develop independence, communication, and functional skills through structured, holistic learning.

Alongside Chelsea’s work in the UK, she gained valuable international experience working at Conductive Education summer camps in both Chicago and Colorado, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and supporting a wide range of learners. Later, moving to Australia, she worked as a Teacher-Conductor in a special educational needs school, supporting students aged 2–18. This role allowed her to further refine her practice across a broad age range, tailoring programmes to support physical, cognitive, and emotional development.

My journey into this field stemmed from a passion for helping others reach their potential and has grown through training and hands-on experience into a rewarding and meaningful career.

In her free time, Chelsea loves travelling and exploring the world!

Petra Por

Therapy Assistant

Petra holds a BSc in Psychology and is deeply passionate about supporting children with disabilities to reach their full potential. Her strong foundation in child development and the importance of tailored interventions guide her work.

With experience as an SEN teaching assistant and a keen interest in early development, Petra brings enthusiasm and dedication to CPotential. She is particularly inspired by Conductive Education, which aligns closely with her future ambition of becoming a Conductor.

Bira Vijeyathas

Therapy Assistant

Bira completed her BSc (Hons) in Cognitive Neuroscience with Psychology at the University of Manchester before pursuing a Master’s degree in Applied Paediatric Neuropsychology at UCL, driven by her long-standing passion for working with children.

She is fascinated by the way children’s brains shape their thinking, behaviour, and development, and is dedicated to helping young people build confidence, develop new skills, and achieve their full potential. Bira has experience working with children across a range of settings, including in a nursery and as a tutor supporting children with autism, ADHD, global developmental delay (GDD), and cerebral palsy. She has also worked within an adult inpatient mental health rehabilitation setting, giving her valuable experience supporting individuals with diverse needs.

A particularly meaningful experience for Bira was participating in a two-week charity project in Sri Lanka, where she worked alongside underprivileged communities and supported local families. Meeting children with neurodisabilities and autism highlighted the inequalities and lack of support that many families face, further strengthening her commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of children and young people.

Outside of work, Bira loves travelling and embracing new experiences, especially those that involve a little adventure and adrenaline.

Agata Piorkowska

Practice Manager

Aggy joined CPotential in 2023 as a Clinical Services Administrator, where she became a warm and welcoming presence in the front office. In October 2024, she was promoted to Practice Manager.

I love coordinating services and ensuring everything runs smoothly for the organisation, but the best part is getting to know the families at CPotential.”

With a professional background in the art industry, Aggy enjoys visiting galleries as well as reading, yoga and cycling.

Rosie Hodgson

Family Support Manager

Rosie joined the CPotential family in 2023. She has a background in education, teaching drama, core subjects and functional skills to children with SEND.

She particularly enjoys drama and the power of creative spaces to bring people together. In her spare time she likes to read, walk in nature and visit performance spaces around London.

I’m really excited to join the CPotential team, get to know the CPotential families and help to ensure families feel supported and empowered throughout their therapy journey.

We are very thankful to our law firm partners, Irwin Mitchell & Slater & Gordon for funding the Family Support Manager role at CPotential. 

Johanna Vigilante

Director of Partnerships & Communications

Johanna has worked within the charity sector for the last 30 years, gaining a wealth of skills and experience in PR, communications, marketing, fundraising, HR and recruitment.

I absolutely love working at CPotential, not only because of the home-from-home feel and brilliant family team, but getting to know the wonderful children and their families and witness the differences being made to their quality of life – nothing beats it!

In her spare time, Jo is a social butterfly with family and friends. She loves music, F1, walking her Springer Spaniel, and embarking on various creative and cultural adventures. If you ask nicely, she may tell you about her record deal in the 90s.

Evie Copson

Marketing Assistant

With a degree in Illustration from Falmouth University, Evie brings a passion for art and creativity to the Marketing, Communications and Fundraising team. She has been working with the team two days a week since May 2026, using her creative skill set to help bring ideas and campaigns to life.

Before shifting into Marketing at CPotential, Evie was a Therapy Assistant, due to her background in childcare and education, with experience in both SEND and mainstream settings. Growing up, Evie volunteered at a SEND school as a teenager and later worked there, inspired by a deep love for the community and its mission.

Originally from Cornwall, Evie moved to London a few years ago in search of new adventures. During this time, working with children attending physiotherapy and occupational therapy appointments while nannying sparked a passion for exploring new ways to support children, ultimately leading to her role at CPotential.

Evie spends her spare time immersed in art and music, and this creative spirit complements her dedication to helping children achieve their full potential.

Luisa Hayes

Community Fundraiser

Having joined the CPotential Team in 2021, Luisa hit the ground running supporting Admin & Finance to ensure a nice seamless journey for our families. In April 2023, Luisa took the plunge with an exciting new internal role as Community Fundraiser.

Luisa has a creative and varied work background including music, live events, and interior design.

I’m so happy to now be part of the CPotential team and it’s great getting to know our lovely families.”

In her spare time, Luisa loves to upcycle furniture and hang out with friends (usually with cake!)

Sue O’Neill

Cleaner

Sue is one of our lovely cleaners keeping CPotential looking it’s best.

Janet McKenzie

Cleaner

Janet is one of our lovely cleaners keeping CPotential looking it’s best.

Brett Parker

CEO

Brett has over 30 years of business leadership experience ranging across the commercial and not-for-profit sectors. He joined CPotential as CEO in 2019.

Brett is a Chartered Director (IoD) and has a masters in leadership and management.

I ardently believe that the not for profit sector has a vital role to play in society; creating innovative business models and services that efficiently integrate and support our communities and individuals.

Calli Pellegrini

Director of Resources & Enterprise

2019 marked Calli’s silver anniversary in working in charity fundraising and marketing. She has had the pleasure and privilege of leading teams in the fields of the arts, health and disability charities.

Calli has been a speaker at the Institute of Fundraising Conference and Arts & Business events. She has most fun though, speaking with the children that come to CPotential.

Agnieszka Kosacz

Finance Director

Agnieszka is a qualified ACCA accountant and an MA graduate in Economics.

Working within SMEs and the corporate FTSE 100, Agnieszka has 20 years of experience in the accounting environment.

In her spare time, Agnieszka can be found studying Naturopathy, baking, and gardening at her allotment.

Chris Gilbert

Chair of Trustees

Chris is currently Chief Financial Officer of the Solventis Group, an international chemicals company with annual sales of over £250m, and has over 15 years’ experience in Finance leadership roles in both privately owned and FTSE listed companies as well as over 10 years working for Deloitte, predominantly as a management consultant.

A qualified accountant, he has an MA in Mathematics from Cambridge and an MBA from Warwick Business School.

Chris has been a trustee since 2015 and his daughter attended CPotential for 5 years.

Tim Hammett

Trustee

Tim has a long track record in the financial sector (specialising in investment, company research and marketing) and over the last 7 years has become an experienced business coach, consultant and strategist running his own firm.

Tim also has more than 10 years of experience as a trustee of another North London-based educational charity.

Catharine Seddon

Trustee

Catharine spent many years as a film documentary maker, first for BBC TV and then as an independent producer for Channel 4.

After her second son was born with severe cerebral palsy, she began working for the judiciary, initially as a disability specialist on social security tribunals. She continues to sit on tribunals in the jurisdictions of employment and mental health and is a founding member of the Health Service Products Appeal Tribunal. She is a presiding magistrate in Central London and sits as a Lay Assessor under the Equality Act in county court cases.

Former national public appointments include being Senior Independent Director for the Gambling Commission, the Legal Services Board, the Human Tissue Authority and the Personal Finance Society as well as sitting on the Determinations Panel of The Pensions Regulator.

Catharine is currently Deputy Chair and Chair of the audit and governance committee at the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority and Chair of the Private Law improvement programme at CAFCASS. She lectures for the Civil Service College and sits on the Disciplinary Committee of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Kevin Clark

Trustee

Emily Farruku

Trustee

Emily is a passionate advocate for disability inclusion, bringing a wealth of lived experience, professional insight, and a commitment to creating greater opportunities for people with disabilities.

Alongside her studies in Law, Emily has dedicated her time to championing inclusion and representation. She is an Ambassador for icandance, using her voice and experience to promote creativity, confidence, and accessibility for disabled people. Emily is also supporting CPotential’s Disability Inclusion Training Course project, helping to share her knowledge and lived experience to improve understanding and inclusion across wider communities.

Emily was born prematurely with cerebral palsy, which affects her mobility and movement. Having attended CPotential from the age of three, she experienced first-hand the transformative impact of specialist support in helping her build strength, confidence, and independence. Her journey with CPotential has shaped her passion for advocating for disabled people and ensuring they have the opportunities and support they need to thrive.

Emily was also a successful member of the BBC Children in Need Challenge Squad, taking part in a programme designed to support young people to develop skills, confidence, and leadership. She continues to use these experiences to inspire others and challenge perceptions around disability.

Now approaching her third year studying Law at university, Emily hopes to specialise in Human Rights Law, with the ambition of advocating for disabled people who face discrimination. As a Trustee, Emily brings a unique perspective as both a former service user and long-standing supporter of CPotential, alongside her growing professional experience and dedication to disability rights.

“My journey with CPotential has been monumental to say the least. Becoming part of the fantastic Board of Trustees at 23, having been a client and supporter of the charity since I was 3 years old, is an honour. I’m excited to help shape and drive the charity’s future and beyond grateful for the opportunity.”