About Us
At Juniper Tree Autism Services, we walk alongside autistic children and their families, empowering them to thrive.
Juniper Tree Autism Services Was Founded in 2015
Juniper Tree Autism Services offers numerous advantages for autistic children, providing a structured environment where they can develop essential communication skills.
Early childhood education takes place in a play-based, child-led environment, an approach known to support confidence, curiosity, and independence while also encouraging interaction with peers that helps children learn to navigate group settings and build friendships.
Additionally, we employ specialised teaching strategies tailored to individual needs, fostering cognitive development and enhancing self-confidence.
Access to skilled educators and practitioners within our service can also support children in managing sensory sensitivities and developing life skills.
Participation in routine activities and play further aids in developing motor skills and emotional regulation, laying a strong foundation for future learning and independence.
350+
Families Supported
100%
Parent Satisfaction
12+
Years of Service
8
Amazing Staff
Passionate people. Purposeful support.
Our team is united by a shared commitment to empowering autistic children and supporting families every step of the way.
Sarah Mulligan
Founder & Clinical Director
Sarah is a passionate advocate for autistic children and the founder and Managing Director of Juniper Tree Autism Services in Athlone, Co. Westmeath. She holds a degree from the University of Ulster and a Master from National University of Ireland, Galway, and is currently undertaking a Doctorate in Educational and Child Psychology at University College Dublin (UCD).
Before founding Juniper Tree, Sarah worked as a Senior Behaviour Therapist, where she designed and delivered individualised education programmes for autistic children. She conducted detailed assessments across communication, academic, functional living and play skills – becoming an expert in evidence-based support strategies.
She later worked as a Parent Support Coordinator, helping parents to understand and support their childrens needs. Sarah didn’t just study autism support, she lived it from every angle – as a practitioner, a trainer, and as a parent herself.
Sarah took everything she learned on the frontline – the gaps, the frustrations, the things that actually work – and built the service she wished had existed.
Juniper Tree now supports hundreds of families across the midlands.
Áine brings 20+ years of management experience to her role as Manager at Juniper Tree. With a background in administration, she is passionate about building environments where both children and staff can thrive. Áine takes pride in empowering her team, celebrating every achievement, and fostering an inclusive, supportive culture that makes a meaningful difference every day.
Aislinn holds an MSc in Psychology and brings 7+ years of experience working with children. Her areas of speciality include psychology and play based support, and she is dedicated to helping children build confidence and reach their developmental milestones. Aislinn finds deep fulfilment in seeing the positive difference her work makes in the lives of the children in her care.
Dylan holds a Level 8 Degree in Applied Psychology and brings 3+ years of experience to his role. He has a keen interest in supporting speech and language development, communication skills, and sensory processing and regulation. Dylan finds his work deeply rewarding, especially seeing children gain confidence and valuable new skills throughout their time at Juniper Tree.
Aoife is a qualified SNA (Level 6) with 7+ years of experience supporting children with additional needs. She specialises in behaviour and self-regulation, and approaches her work with warmth and a genuine belief in every child’s unique potential. For Aoife, each day brings new opportunities for growth, connection, and joy.
Cathy is a qualified SNA (Level 5) with 3+ years of experience in autism education. She has a particular passion for running structured programmes and witnessing the children in her care grow and flourish. Cathy is committed to building meaningful relationships with every child, supporting their development of confidence and independence within a nurturing environment.
Nicola holds a Master’s degree in the area of Behavioural Psychology and brings 3+ years of specialist experience to the team. Her interests include behavioural interventions that support development and learning in young children, as well as building strong, trusting relationships with both children and colleagues. Nicola values the collaborative spirit at Juniper Tree and is committed to continuous learning and professional development.
Become part of our family
We’d love to hear about your child and talk through how we might be able to help.