Prior to entering Parliament, Fiona worked as a psychologist, academic researcher and small businesswoman. As a practising psychologist Fiona worked with people across the lifespan and in a variety of settings providing assessments and treatments for a range of difficulties and psychological conditions. In 2006, Fiona founded her own psychology practice which grew over 13 years to become a multi-practitioner clinic across two sites. In 2008 she completed her Ph.D., which focused on improving the social functioning of young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

She has published research on people with intellectual disabilities who come into contact with the criminal justice system and effective interview techniques for children’s eye-witness testimony. Fiona has previously worked as an expert consultant for a variety of organisations including Camp Quality, Only About Children, Safe Work NSW, Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation and Life Education.