Banu Balaji is a seasoned occupational therapist with over two decades of experience in HSE, Ireland, specialising in working with children and families within the realm of child and adolescent mental health. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy and a Master's in Psychosocial Rehabilitation, Banu has honed her expertise through diverse roles in both adult mental health and child and adolescent mental health settings, spanning community outreach to inpatient care.

Throughout her career, Banu has developed a profound interest in developmental trauma and attachment, recognizing the crucial role these factors play in shaping individuals' lives. Her commitment to enhancing therapeutic interventions led her to undergo specialised training in Sensory Attachment intervention, empowering her to address complex emotional needs effectively.

Currently, Banu operates in a private capacity, collaborating with TUSLA to support children in care. Her focus lies in empowering parents and caregivers, facilitating their journey towards finding joy in parenting by equipping them with tools and strategies to foster healthy regulation in children. Beyond her clinical work, Banu is a visionary entrepreneur, embarking on an exciting venture in partnership with Munster Technological University. Her tech startup aims to revolutionize support systems for parents of children with disabilities, leveraging innovative solutions to enhance accessibility and quality of care. Banu's multifaceted career reflects her unwavering dedication to improving the well-being of children and families, blending clinical expertise with entrepreneurial spirit to drive positive change in the realm of mental health and disability support.

Banu is also the host of Therapod Podcast. This podcast discusses therapeutic information in an  easy to understand and assimilate format for parents, carers and teachers.