Hello, I'm Emma
I'm Emma Cahill, a Specialist Paediatric Occupational Therapist with over 17 years' experience helping children and families across Ireland and the UK. I founded Skills for Life OT because I wanted to offer families something different — a service that truly puts your child and your family at the centre of everything.
Over the course of my career, I've worked across the NHS, the HSE, and private practice. I've supported children with a wide range of needs — from sensory processing challenges and developmental coordination disorders to complex physical disabilities and neurodevelopmental conditions. I've also spent years specialising in housing adaptation assessments, helping families create homes that are safe, accessible, and supportive of their child's independence.
What matters most to me is making your child feel safe, supported and proud of what they can achieve — no matter how small the step. I take the time to listen, to understand, and to work with you to set meaningful, achievable goals.
Reg. No. 058366 · AOTI Member · 17+ years' experience
A Career Built on Supporting Children
My journey has taken me through clinical, community, and private settings across Ireland and the UK.
NHS Experience
I began my career in the NHS, working in clinical and community paediatric settings.
HSE Experience
I worked with the HSE in Ireland, supporting children and families across community services.
Private Practice
I established Skills for Life OT to offer families a personal, flexible and dedicated service.
Clinical Leadership
I have held senior clinical roles, mentoring junior therapists and leading service development.
Conditions & Areas I Support
I have extensive experience working with children across a wide range of neurodevelopmental, physical, and sensory needs.
Whether your child has a specific diagnosis or you're simply noticing that everyday tasks are harder than they should be, I can help. You don't need a referral or a formal diagnosis to get in touch.
Professional Registration & Qualifications
Fully registered, qualified, and committed to ongoing professional development.
Registration
- CORU Registered Occupational Therapist (Reg. No. 058366)
- Member, Association of Occupational Therapists of Ireland (AOTI)
- Fully insured for private practice
Academic Qualifications
- BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy
- Postgraduate training in Sensory Integration
- Specialist training in developmental coordination disorders
Specialist Training
- Ayres Sensory Integration® approach
- Standardised paediatric assessment tools
- Housing adaptation and environmental assessment
- Neurodevelopmental therapy approaches
- Continuing professional development (ongoing)
My Values
The principles that guide everything I do.
Compassion
I approach every child and family with warmth, empathy and understanding.
Collaboration
I work alongside parents, teachers and other professionals to provide holistic support.
Empowerment
I build children's confidence by celebrating their strengths and small victories.
Evidence-Based
My therapy is grounded in the latest research and best-practice approaches.
Integrity
I am honest, transparent and committed to the highest professional standards.
Excellence
I strive to deliver the best possible outcomes for every child I work with.
Let's Work Together
I'd love to hear about your child and discuss how I can help. Get in touch for a friendly, no-obligation conversation.
Make an Enquiry