Director and Head Researcher
(PhD Mol Path, B.App.Sc Hons, A DIp Nutr. Nutrigenomist)
I am Dr Heather Way (PhD), a dedicated researcher and practitioner passionate about the transformative power of personalised genomics. With a PhD in Molecular Pathology, Bachelor of Applied Science, Diploma in Nutrition, and certifications in Nutrigenomics. I have spent over 25 years as a scientist with CSIRO before transitioning into clinical practice. Please note that while I hold a PhD, I am not a medical doctor—I am a researcher specialising in Autism genomics.
My journey is both professional and deeply personal. As a mother of two sons who have successfully recovered from Autism using our TACGA strategies, I bring a unique perspective shaped by first-hand experience. Our family has navigated a complex landscape of health challenges, including extreme food intolerances, non-verbal Autism, Asperger’s, ADHD, anxiety, depression, eczema, fussy eating, sensory sensitivities, and gastrointestinal conditions such as IBS, reflux, diarrhoea, constipation, and leaky gut. These lived experiences allow me to offer realistic, family-friendly strategies that are both practical and effective for children with ASD.
The missing piece in my children’s recovery came through targeting gene expression using Nutrigenomics and Microbiome sequencing—a breakthrough that unites my three greatest passions: Molecular Genetics, Nutrition, and Autism Research. Together, these fields form the foundation of Nutrigenomics, an exciting and evolving discipline that tailors nutrition to an individual’s genetic profile.
As an educator and global speaker, I train paediatricians and healthcare professionals on the application of genomics in clinical practice at leading conferences, including MAPS (USA & Australia), MINDD, Bio-Balance, ASLM, and A5M. I also serve on the scientific advisory boards of several prestigious organizations, including Victus Health, Julie Matthews (Nourishing Hope, USA), Fitgenes, smartDNA, and IntellxxDNA (USA). Additionally, I lead research initiatives for world-renowned genetics and microbiome companies, contributing to the development of specialist nutrigenomic and microbiome sequencing tests for neurodevelopmental disorders, including Autism.
To bring this expertise to families worldwide, I founded Autism Genes, with the vision of establishing an Autism Genomics Centre for Excellence. Through Autism Genes, our team of expert online nutrigenomic practitioners provides cutting-edge, science-backed strategies via telehealth, helping families across the globe optimize their children’s health and well-being.
Clinic Manager and Senior Practitioner (B.HSc. Nut Med, Nutrigenomist)
Amanda is deeply passionate about the clinic and its core principles. As a mother of two, including a child with Autism, she understands the challenges families face firsthand. Her journey into nutritional medicine began when she witnessed the profound impact of nutrition on Autism, leading her to complete a BHSc in Nutritional Medicine.
Senior Practitioner (B.HSc. Nut Med, Nutrigenomist)
Helen is a senior nutrigenomist at our clinic She has been a highly valued integral part of our team for nearly a decade. With a Bachelor of Health Science in Nutritional Medicine and extensive experience in nutrigenomics and gut health, she brings a wealth of knowledge to our practice. As a mother of four, Helen is passionate about healthy living and is particularly dedicated to supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. Her commitment to integrating cutting-edge nutritional science with compassionate care makes her an asset to our centre and the families we serve.
Practitioner (B.HSc Biomed Sc – Nut Ther, A.Dip. Nat. Nutrigenomist)
Sarah is a second-generation Naturopath and Clinical Nutritionist, with over 17 years of experience in this industy. A wife and mother of two, she was raised with a strong foundation in family, natural health and healing.
Specialising in mental health, ADHD, ASD, anxiety, and depression, Sarah is passionate about educating and empowering individuals to create meaningful changes for themselves and their families.
Giovana is a functional nutritionist specialising in neurodevelopmental and neuroimmune conditions in children. With a Master’s in human nutrition and postgraduate training in Autism nutrition, she applies advanced frameworks in neuropsychonutrition, nutrigenomics, and metabolomics to support children with Autism, ADHD, Rett syndrome, and PANS/PANDAS. Giovana dedicates her clinical expertise to the gut-brain-immune connection, delivering evidence-based, targeted interventions to improve behaviour, cognition, mood, and overall developmental outcomes in neurodivergent children.
Practitioner (B.HSc, Nutrigenomist)
Mia‘s passion for natural medicine deepened when her children needed support beyond conventional care, leading her to a holistic approach that addresses root causes of health challenges. With a Bachelor of Health Science and experience as an ASD mum, she has a profound understanding of children’s health, particularly in nervous system regulation and the gut-brain connection. Mia is dedicated to supporting children with autism, ADHD, learning difficulties, and PANS/PANDAS, empowering families with strategies to help their children thrive. She believes in the transformative power of natural therapies to promote optimal health and well-being.
Health Coach
Sharlene is a qualified nutritionist and health coach with a fervent dedication to health and wellness.
As the mother of a neurodiverse child, Sharlene offers a unique perspective and a deep passion for using nutrition as nature’s medicine. In addition, Sharlene is a qualified pastry chef with extensive experience accommodating various dietary requirements.
In her role as Health Coach, Sharlene supports our practitioners by addressing questions from our clients, and helping with any challenges parents and carers of neurodiverse children face. Committed to continuous learning, she is pursuing a degree in Biomedical Science.
Receptionist
Tracy’s motto is ‘Connecting Hearts for a better world’. Her passion for helping people together with her experience in customer service enables her to be of value at reception, where she gives her best at all times. Her experience as a mum of three sons, together with her holistic heart based approach to guiding others compliments the ethics of our centre.
Online Autism Genes Storemen
Callum plays a vital role in our Autism Genes operations, ensuring that all Australian store orders are carefully packed and sent out on time. He’s responsible for managing stock levels, preparing Post labels, and making sure every parcel is packaged with care.
Now 21, Callum has been part of the Autism Genes family for several years — first as a client, and now as a valued team member. Diagnosed with level 3 autism and intellectual impairment, Callum has made incredible progress and is proud to be contributing to a mission close to his heart.
With a strong personal understanding of the benefits of a gluten- and dairy-free lifestyle, Callum is committed to his own health journey and takes his supplements consistently to support his growth and wellbeing.
He’s a dedicated, thoughtful presence in our team — and we’re so grateful to have him.
Admin Assistant
Mackenzie is the bright and friendly face behind many of our admin processes at Autism Genes. As our Admin Assistant, she helps keep everything running smoothly — from answering enquiries to supporting our team and families with care and efficiency.
With a brother on the autism spectrum, Mackenzie has a deep personal connection to our clinic’s mission. She’s seen the difference that the right support can make and brings that insight and empathy into every interaction.
Young, vibrant, and passionate about helping others, Mackenzie is always ready to lend a hand. When she’s not at the clinic, you’ll find her reading, planning her next adventure, or dreaming up travel plans.
We’re so lucky to have her as part of our team!
Interested in becoming part of our team?
© Copyright – Autism Genes
