From an early age, I’ve been drawn to helping others find their way through life’s challenges, When I started my journey as an Occupational Therapist (OT) graduating from the University of British Columbia (UBC) in 1995 I realized I'd found my true calling. Over the years, I’ve supported people navigating the complexities of neurological rehabilitation, helping them regain independence and rediscover meaning in their daily lives after a traumatic injury or acquired illness.. This work has given me the opportunity to work in both Canada and the UK, and travel extensively providing me with diverse perspectives on recovery and resilience.
My own lived experiences have shaped the way I support others. Living with migraines and sensory issues since my teens and facing health challenges and injuries that come with being human, have deepened my understanding of resilience—not just physically, but cognitively and emotionally.
Navigating life’s transitions, including caregiving and the loss of a loved one, have also taught me firsthand how essential self-compassion is in meeting these challenges. This realization led me to train as a Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) teacher in 2023, where I now help others cultivate kindness toward themselves, even in life's most difficult moments. Integrating mindfulness, sensory regulation, and self-compassion has become central to my work, providing tools to support physical, emotional and cognitive resilience and recovery. .
My passion for design and sensory wellness has been an important part of my journey. In 2005, I completed a certificate in Interior Design from the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and founded my private practice Universal Design Solutions, where I combine accessibility, universal and sensory focused design theory to create spaces that support usability and sensory well-being. For me, design is another way of helping people feel at home—both in their environment and in themselves.
If you’re looking for support—whether to find balance in your daily life, navigate recovery after a neurological event, learn to approach yourself with greater compassion, or reimagine your space to better support your well-being—I’d love to work with you. Let’s explore what’s possible together.
Shannon Ellis OT | Universal Design Solutions
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