About Us

Kristina Rautek Potocnik

My name is Kristina Rautek Potocnik, and I am a Child Development Specialist and Early Years Intervention Specialist with over 20 years of experience. I am dedicated to helping children from birth to 12 years of age grow, learn, and reach their full potential.

My professional journey began in Croatia, where I completed my education at the University of Zagreb, Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation Sciences. I graduated in Rehabilitation and received the title Professor of Rehabilitation—now recognised as a postgraduate qualification positioned between an Honours Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree under the Bologna Process. During more than 13 years of working in Croatia, I gained valuable experience working with children with developmental difficulties, special needs, and gifted children.

I continued my education in Ireland, beginning with an accredited Montessori qualification completed at Chevron College, which provided me with a strong foundation in child-centred learning and early childhood development. I then earned a First Class Honours Degree in Childhood Studies from Waterford Institute of Technology, where I deepened my understanding of developmental theory and inclusive practice. Following this, I completed a Master of Arts in Early Intervention and Inclusive Practice at Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), which enhanced my skills in supporting children with additional needs. I am currently pursuing an Advanced Master's Degree in Comprehensive Speech Therapy at TECH Global University, allowing me to further specialise in language development and communication support.

As a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (PESI), I bring focused, evidence-based strategies to support children with ASD across developmental domains. I specialize in Therapeutic Play Skills (IICP), using play as a powerful tool to promote learning, communication, and emotional growth. My expertise includes Sensory Integration (Sensory Integration Ireland) and Hand Therapy, supporting children with motor coordination and sensory processing challenges.

I hold certification in Reflex Integration (Harkla), and a Diploma in Applied Behaviour Analysis (City Colleges), enabling me to design and implement effective behavioural supports grounded in best practice.

Additionally, I focus on Early Intervention Through Physical Education, using movement and physical activity to foster developmental progress in a holistic and engaging way. In early language development, I apply foundational communication strategies to support emerging speech and interaction, while remaining within the ethical boundaries of formal speech and language therapy.

In my dedication to professional growth over the past seven years, I have completed over 50 CPD courses across areas such as child psychology, social care, public health, and therapeutic intervention. These extensive studies continue to enrich my approach, ensuring that each intervention I provide is informed by the latest advancements in early intervention and child development. I draw inspiration from a variety of educational philosophies, particularly the Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, and Montessori approaches, each of which emphasises the child's agency, innate curiosity, and capacity for self-directed learning. These frameworks guide my practice by promoting creativity, independence, holistic development, and the vital role of the environment and adult-child relationships in nurturing a child's full potential.

In my practice, NeuroNest Early Intervention, located at Oak Villa, Military Road, Waterford, Ireland X91 KW2V, I conduct detailed assessments tailored to each child's developmental stage and needs. These assessments provide a comprehensive understanding of each child’s abilities and challenges, allowing me to identify areas requiring targeted support. Based on these findings, I develop individualized intervention plans focusing on enhancing motor coordination, sensory integration, communication, and social interaction. This personalized approach ensures that every intervention is age-appropriate and effectively supports each child’s overall growth.

I use a variety of therapeutic tools, including neurofeedback technology, Bobo Dice, interactive sensory equipment, and electronic educational games, all aimed at promoting focus, self-regulation, and cognitive engagement. My practice is dedicated to fostering each child’s physical, cognitive, language, social, and emotional development. I believe in working closely with families as partners, ensuring that together we create the best environment for the child’s growth.

By integrating traditional and innovative methodologies, I strive to build supportive environments where children can thrive. My goal is to empower children with the foundational life skills they need to succeed, ensuring they flourish in both home and educational settings. With an unwavering commitment to child development, I remain devoted to helping each child reach their fullest potential on their developmental journey.

Registrations and Memberships:

• Member of AOTI (Association of Occupational Therapists of Ireland)

  Membership No: 10809

• Associate Member of PSI (Psychological Society of Ireland)

  Membership No: AM15626

• Member of PEIN (Prevention and Early Intervention Network)

• Member of IACAT (Irish Association of Creative Arts Therapists)

  Membership No: 2559

• Member of IAIMH (Irish Association for Infant Mental Health)

• Certified in Autism Spectrum Disorder Communication Strategies (ASDCS)

  Evergreen Certificate No: 258578

• Registered ABA Tutor / Behaviour Technician with the Irish Society for Behaviour Analysis (ISBA)

  Registration No: fdf8ab9586

• Registered CPD Provider for Ireland

  Provider No: #786888

Bruno Vidovic

My name is Bruno Vidovic, and I am a qualified psychologist with a bachelor's degree from South East Technological University (SETU). I also hold a certificate in Community Health Services, HARKLA Primitive Reflexes and am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Mental Health Practice with Children and Young People. I am fluent in English and Croatian and have a passion for kickboxing. Additionally, I have experience in data analysis using SPSS, where I evaluate and match the effectiveness of therapeutic approaches to corresponding sample groups.

It is both an honor and a thrill to be part of the early intervention specialist team at NeuroNest. In today’s increasingly sedentary world, I believe it is crucial to teach both children and parents about the importance of movement through play within the framework of sensory integration therapy. This work holds meaning for me because it allows me to nurture children’s natural curiosity, helping them see obstacles as exciting challenges rather than barriers. Furthermore, I fully endorse NeuroNest’s psycho-educational intervention approach. My mission is not only to help children achieve their potential but also to empower parents with the tools they need to strengthen their relationships with their children. This holistic approach ensures lasting, meaningful progress for the entire family.

Registrations and Memberships:

• Associate Member of PSI (Psychological Society of Ireland)

  Membership No: M15514

• Member of PEIN (Prevention and Early Intervention Network)

Mihaela Potocnik

My name is Mihaela Potocnik. I am proud to be both a tutor and administrator at NeuroNest, where I am dedicated to supporting students in their academic journeys and ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations of our practice.

I graduated from secondary school in 2023 with outstanding results, including H1s in English, Politics, and Geography. I now offer tutoring for Leaving Cert students in English, Politics, and Geography at both Ordinary and Higher Level, as well as English and Geography for Junior Cert students. My approach to tutoring is student-centred, focusing on building confidence and providing tailored support to help students excel in their exams. I am passionate about making learning engaging and accessible for everyone.

In addition to tutoring, I manage administrative responsibilities at NeuroNest. I am currently studying Law at South East Technological University (SETU), which has strengthened my organisational and critical thinking skills, making me proficient in handling a wide range of administrative tasks.

Fluent in both English and Croatian, I am always available to answer enquiries, assist with scheduling, and ensure a seamless experience for all NeuroNest clients.

Whether you're seeking academic support or administrative assistance, I am eager to help and committed to providing the best possible experience at NeuroNest.

Karla Potocnik

My name is Karla Potočnik, and I bring a unique blend of expertise and passion to my role as a tutor. As a graduated Piano Performer, I understand the discipline, dedication, and precision required to master any subject. Currently, I am in the final stages of completing my studies in Mechanical Engineering and Manufacturing, a challenging and rewarding field that has honed my problem-solving skills and analytical thinking. Upon completing this milestone, I will embark on an exciting new journey—training to become a pilot.

At NeuroNest, I provide specialized tutoring and grinds for students preparing for the Leaving Certificate and Junior Certificate examinations. My areas of expertise include Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Spanish, and German. I am deeply committed to simplifying complex concepts and delivering lessons tailored to each student’s unique needs and learning style. My teaching philosophy revolves around building confidence, fostering curiosity, and empowering students to reach their full potential.

Whether you’re working to improve your foundational understanding or aiming for top marks, my goal is to help you succeed. I combine clear explanations with practical examples to ensure that every lesson is engaging, comprehensive, and impactful. By creating a supportive learning environment, I strive to make even the most challenging topics approachable and manageable.

With my diverse academic background and a passion for education, I bring a well-rounded perspective to every subject I teach. I am here to support you on your educational journey, helping you overcome obstacles and achieve outstanding results.