Child Psychologists and Therapists in Australian Capital Territory

Photo of Lauren Hendry, Social Worker, AMHSW
Lauren Hendry
Social Worker, AMHSW
Canberra, ACT 2600
Waitlist for new clients
I have education and experience in supporting the mental health of persons across the lifespan and hold specialised training, experience, and particular interest in child and adolescent mental health and forensic mental health fields of practice.
I offer structured and semi-structured evidence-based therapeutic interventions to individuals, families, and groups, and am skilled in the provision of Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Psychoeducation and Skills Building.
I have education and experience in supporting the mental health of persons across the lifespan and hold specialised training, experience, and particular interest in child and adolescent mental health and forensic mental health fields of practice.
I offer structured and semi-structured evidence-based therapeutic interventions to individuals, families, and groups, and am skilled in the provision of Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Psychoeducation and Skills Building.
(02) 5121 7179 View (02) 5121 7179
Photo of Vaneitha Balakrishnan, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Vaneitha Balakrishnan
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Cook, ACT 2614
Vaneitha is a child, adolescent and adult clinical counsellor and psychotherapist with 17 years of experience.
She is analytically trained and has sound knowledge offering attunement and insight to help clients discover a deeper level of understanding of themselves and the personal meaning of their lives. She also works within the therapeutic technique of Sandplay with both adults and children.
Vaneitha is a child, adolescent and adult clinical counsellor and psychotherapist with 17 years of experience.
She is analytically trained and has sound knowledge offering attunement and insight to help clients discover a deeper level of understanding of themselves and the personal meaning of their lives. She also works within the therapeutic technique of Sandplay with both adults and children.
(02) 5120 2068 View (02) 5120 2068
Photo of Kieran Vaughan - Full Potential Counselling, Counsellor, PACFA
Full Potential Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Ainslie, ACT 2602
Many people feel 'stuck' with behaviours, feelings, habits or situations that they find hard to change. This can limit the potential to flourish and live life fully. Everyone has their own strengths and coping skills, and the right counsellor will help you to notice your pre-existing strength and resilience, and work with you to find ways to tackle your challenges and live the life you really want to live.
Many people feel 'stuck' with behaviours, feelings, habits or situations that they find hard to change. This can limit the potential to flourish and live life fully. Everyone has their own strengths and coping skills, and the right counsellor will help you to notice your pre-existing strength and resilience, and work with you to find ways to tackle your challenges and live the life you really want to live.
(02) 6188 7072 View (02) 6188 7072
Photo of Elysha Fordham-Young - Integrated Self Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Integrated Self Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mawson, ACT 2607
I have extensive experience in working with children, young people and adults who have experienced adversity either within their home, community, educational setting or work place.
I am a Certified Sensorimotor Psychotherapist and psychologist, applying wholistic approach to helping people from all age groups who have experienced trauma and mental health challenges. I integrate body-oriented and attachment based therapy techniques, providing a neurobiological approach throughout the psychotherapy process.
I have extensive experience in working with children, young people and adults who have experienced adversity either within their home, community, educational setting or work place.
I am a Certified Sensorimotor Psychotherapist and psychologist, applying wholistic approach to helping people from all age groups who have experienced trauma and mental health challenges. I integrate body-oriented and attachment based therapy techniques, providing a neurobiological approach throughout the psychotherapy process.
0412 403 639 View 0412 403 639
Photo of Parichart Chantarasenanon - Oasis Counselling & Well-being, Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Oasis Counselling & Well-being
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Deakin, ACT 2600
I provide 1:1 counselling for kids (from 5yr), adolescents and adults.
Par brings a rich and diverse educational background in Psychology, Human Biology & Physiology, Neuroscience, Counselling, and Clinical Pastoral Care. She integrates this knowledge to support patients in a compassionate, grounded, and holistic way and evidence-based. Par is trained in a range of therapeutic approaches for variety of mental health challenges. Par is passionate about Neuroscience and how the body and brain work together, Par incorporates evidence-based insights into her sessions to help patients better understand their experiences. Her approach is person-centred, strengths-based, and tailored to meet each individual.
I provide 1:1 counselling for kids (from 5yr), adolescents and adults.
Par brings a rich and diverse educational background in Psychology, Human Biology & Physiology, Neuroscience, Counselling, and Clinical Pastoral Care. She integrates this knowledge to support patients in a compassionate, grounded, and holistic way and evidence-based. Par is trained in a range of therapeutic approaches for variety of mental health challenges. Par is passionate about Neuroscience and how the body and brain work together, Par incorporates evidence-based insights into her sessions to help patients better understand their experiences. Her approach is person-centred, strengths-based, and tailored to meet each individual.
(02) 5120 2469 View (02) 5120 2469
Photo of Niah A'kose - Ko Se Counsel, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Ko Se Counsel
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Dickson, ACT 2602
As therapists, we often speak about the client as being the expert of their own life. It is true. There can be times, however, when we get stuck, cannot decide, and find ourselves repeating patterns of thought and behaviour that can lead us to experiences of depression, anxiety, stress, and distress. If we can decipher the codes handed down to us, internally or externally, we may be able to shape things differently for ourselves and future generations. My way of being at Ko Se Counsel is to sit, stand, or walk beside you as you understand, define, and make happen what you seek.
As therapists, we often speak about the client as being the expert of their own life. It is true. There can be times, however, when we get stuck, cannot decide, and find ourselves repeating patterns of thought and behaviour that can lead us to experiences of depression, anxiety, stress, and distress. If we can decipher the codes handed down to us, internally or externally, we may be able to shape things differently for ourselves and future generations. My way of being at Ko Se Counsel is to sit, stand, or walk beside you as you understand, define, and make happen what you seek.
(02) 5118 9002 View (02) 5118 9002
Photo of Elmarie Bekker - Elmarie Bekker Counselling Canberra, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Elmarie Bekker Counselling Canberra
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Turner, ACT 2612
A Masters degree in Counselling as well as 15 years experience as a social worker working in the medical field or the community with children and families, as well as the many roles filled as wife, mother, friend, migrant, psychotherapist and manager, provides a deep understanding of human psyche.
Wanting to unlock better mental health? Are you stuck within relationships, family issues, anxiety, depression, social isolation, identity issues, trauma, loss and grief, or living with neurodivergence and marital problems? In my counselling rooms you will find a person-centered refuge, either face-to-face or online, to safely explore your challenges, create alternative ways of thinking and feeling, and devise new strategies to handle those challenges with more sati. Counselling sessions are available to any individuals looking for change, aged 12 years or older, or couples, or family systems.
A Masters degree in Counselling as well as 15 years experience as a social worker working in the medical field or the community with children and families, as well as the many roles filled as wife, mother, friend, migrant, psychotherapist and manager, provides a deep understanding of human psyche.
Wanting to unlock better mental health? Are you stuck within relationships, family issues, anxiety, depression, social isolation, identity issues, trauma, loss and grief, or living with neurodivergence and marital problems? In my counselling rooms you will find a person-centered refuge, either face-to-face or online, to safely explore your challenges, create alternative ways of thinking and feeling, and devise new strategies to handle those challenges with more sati. Counselling sessions are available to any individuals looking for change, aged 12 years or older, or couples, or family systems.
(02) 5133 8133 View (02) 5133 8133
Photo of Donna Marie Smythe, Counsellor, MA
Donna Marie Smythe
Counsellor, MA
1 Endorsed
Mawson, ACT 2607
Welcome! My name is Donna. I am a person centred therapist who is passionate about helping others, particularly those suffering from Trauma. My training comes from world leaders in the field and is ongoing. I have extensive experience working with youth and across diverse cultures. Also, with the LGBTQI+ community. My mission is to assist you on a deeper level to be empowered, find hope, and strengthen your belief in self to improve wellbeing.
Welcome! My name is Donna. I am a person centred therapist who is passionate about helping others, particularly those suffering from Trauma. My training comes from world leaders in the field and is ongoing. I have extensive experience working with youth and across diverse cultures. Also, with the LGBTQI+ community. My mission is to assist you on a deeper level to be empowered, find hope, and strengthen your belief in self to improve wellbeing.
(02) 5926 2994 View (02) 5926 2994
Photo of Mike van Diemen, Psychotherapist, AACBT
Mike van Diemen
Psychotherapist, AACBT
Deakin, ACT 2600
I work with adults and children.
At ACT Complete Therapy we believe in your ability to create meaningful change. Our method has been developed to be brief, collaborative, and focused on your solutions and goals. We will strategically guide you to break free from limiting patterns, access your inner strengths, and achieve a more fulfilling life. Our method works by helping you reframe thoughts or behaviours, build resilience, and create lasting positive outcomes. Whether in our tranquil Canberra office or via video calls, we provide personalised, one-on-one sessions tailored to your unique needs. Discover the power of strategic psychotherapy and clinical hypnosis.
I work with adults and children.
At ACT Complete Therapy we believe in your ability to create meaningful change. Our method has been developed to be brief, collaborative, and focused on your solutions and goals. We will strategically guide you to break free from limiting patterns, access your inner strengths, and achieve a more fulfilling life. Our method works by helping you reframe thoughts or behaviours, build resilience, and create lasting positive outcomes. Whether in our tranquil Canberra office or via video calls, we provide personalised, one-on-one sessions tailored to your unique needs. Discover the power of strategic psychotherapy and clinical hypnosis.
(02) 5950 6283 View (02) 5950 6283
Photo of Toni-Maree Hannan, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Toni-Maree Hannan
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Calwell, ACT 2905
When you are feeling anxious and stressed then you need an expert to support you to get back to normal. I specialise in anxiety and stress disorders and have over 10 years experience in the field.
When you are feeling anxious and stressed then you need an expert to support you to get back to normal. I specialise in anxiety and stress disorders and have over 10 years experience in the field.
(02) 6291 4382 View (02) 6291 4382
Photo of Sally Cox - The Therapeutic Space, Social Worker, MA, AASW
The Therapeutic Space
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Dunlop, ACT 2615
Sally has 17 years experience helping children, adolescents and adults who have been impacted by mental health, family separation, family violence, sexual abuse and trauma.
Working across the lifespan as a Family therapist, Sally specialises in working with children and adolescents particularly in areas of mental health, family separation, anxiety and depression. Working as a strength based clinical therapist Sally works with the client to establish strengths, to build a relationship of trust and safety. Sally has 17 years experience working in the community sector in areas of family violence, sexual abuse, family separation, foster care, trauma and mental health.
Sally has 17 years experience helping children, adolescents and adults who have been impacted by mental health, family separation, family violence, sexual abuse and trauma.
Working across the lifespan as a Family therapist, Sally specialises in working with children and adolescents particularly in areas of mental health, family separation, anxiety and depression. Working as a strength based clinical therapist Sally works with the client to establish strengths, to build a relationship of trust and safety. Sally has 17 years experience working in the community sector in areas of family violence, sexual abuse, family separation, foster care, trauma and mental health.
(02) 5135 5200 View (02) 5135 5200
Photo of Elissa See, Social Worker, AMHSW
Elissa See
Social Worker, AMHSW
Garran, ACT 2605
Elissa also provides consultation sessions to Foster Carers and Parents with concerns regarding the Mental Health and Well Being of children under 14 years of age.
Since 2001 Elissa has worked in support and clinical settings for Government and Non-Government organisations. Elissa has held senior clinician and leadership positions at the The Smith Family, OzHelp Foundation, Child At Risk Health Unit (CARHU) and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).
Elissa also provides consultation sessions to Foster Carers and Parents with concerns regarding the Mental Health and Well Being of children under 14 years of age.
Since 2001 Elissa has worked in support and clinical settings for Government and Non-Government organisations. Elissa has held senior clinician and leadership positions at the The Smith Family, OzHelp Foundation, Child At Risk Health Unit (CARHU) and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).
(02) 5943 9687 View (02) 5943 9687
Photo of Richard David Wigley - Becoming Connected Counselling, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Becoming Connected Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Cook, ACT 2614
Maybe you had a one-off traumatic experience that you feel you will never get over, or childhood and adolescent 'failures' that you feel defined by.
If that's you, I can help. I am naturally sensitive, empathic and welcoming. I am also non-judgmental and genuinely optimistic. In addition, my principal frame of therapeutic reference is Internal Family Systems therapy which sees people as full of possibility for growth and change whatever past difficulties have come.
Maybe you had a one-off traumatic experience that you feel you will never get over, or childhood and adolescent 'failures' that you feel defined by.
If that's you, I can help. I am naturally sensitive, empathic and welcoming. I am also non-judgmental and genuinely optimistic. In addition, my principal frame of therapeutic reference is Internal Family Systems therapy which sees people as full of possibility for growth and change whatever past difficulties have come.
(02) 5118 9022 View (02) 5118 9022
Photo of Jose Martinez, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jose Martinez
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Deakin, ACT 2600
He offers holistic, evidence-based psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
Jose earned his bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology in South America. His lived experience with diverse cultures gives him valuable understanding and compassionate support. It also enables him to provide services in both Spanish and English. Jose also provides Psychology Assessment services to children between 6 - 18 years old.
He offers holistic, evidence-based psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
Jose earned his bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology in South America. His lived experience with diverse cultures gives him valuable understanding and compassionate support. It also enables him to provide services in both Spanish and English. Jose also provides Psychology Assessment services to children between 6 - 18 years old.
(02) 5950 5280 View (02) 5950 5280
Photo of Julia Shay, Social Worker, MA, AASW
Julia Shay
Social Worker, MA, AASW
1 Endorsed
Belconnen, ACT 2617
Julia is a client centred counsellor who offers presence, genuine engagement, and a deep understanding of core issues and childhood trauma that can lead to problems in your relationship.
Julia uses Emotionally Focussed Couples Therapy (EFCT). EFCT is an effective evidence based relationship therapy which recognises that emotions play a big part in your relationships. They show you when you feel your boundaries have been crossed, and when you feel hurt or unloved. They also show you when you feel appreciated, valued and supported.
Julia is a client centred counsellor who offers presence, genuine engagement, and a deep understanding of core issues and childhood trauma that can lead to problems in your relationship.
Julia uses Emotionally Focussed Couples Therapy (EFCT). EFCT is an effective evidence based relationship therapy which recognises that emotions play a big part in your relationships. They show you when you feel your boundaries have been crossed, and when you feel hurt or unloved. They also show you when you feel appreciated, valued and supported.
(03) 8338 4892 View (03) 8338 4892
Photo of Dalai Byambasuren - Ocean Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Ocean Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Page, ACT 2614
Hi there, I’m Dalai. If you're someone who faced trauma, anxiety, grief, or emotional challenges that feel overwhelming, isolating, struggling with identity, cultural displacement, or the lasting impact of difficult experiences, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can process your feelings and truly be heard. Together, we work toward gaining clarity, building emotional resilience, and finding healing. If you want practical tools to manage life’s challenges and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life—and I’m here to support every step of the way.
Hi there, I’m Dalai. If you're someone who faced trauma, anxiety, grief, or emotional challenges that feel overwhelming, isolating, struggling with identity, cultural displacement, or the lasting impact of difficult experiences, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can process your feelings and truly be heard. Together, we work toward gaining clarity, building emotional resilience, and finding healing. If you want practical tools to manage life’s challenges and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life—and I’m here to support every step of the way.
(02) 5133 8073 View (02) 5133 8073
Photo of Fiona Gray - Creating Connections Counselling, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Creating Connections Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Narrabundah, ACT 2604
Do you need someone to talk to? Are you doubting your self-worth & self-esteem or have difficulties with anxiety & depression? Would you like to improve communication & receive relationship counselling?. Have you experienced a betrayal or has someone in the relationship had difficulties with addiction or behavioural difficulties? Have you been affected by previous traumatic experiences? I provide a trauma-informed approach, trained in EMDR & guided imagery. My goal is to ensure you are heard and understood in every session. I am here to work with you to facilitate a safe space to explore your inner needs.
Do you need someone to talk to? Are you doubting your self-worth & self-esteem or have difficulties with anxiety & depression? Would you like to improve communication & receive relationship counselling?. Have you experienced a betrayal or has someone in the relationship had difficulties with addiction or behavioural difficulties? Have you been affected by previous traumatic experiences? I provide a trauma-informed approach, trained in EMDR & guided imagery. My goal is to ensure you are heard and understood in every session. I am here to work with you to facilitate a safe space to explore your inner needs.
(02) 5104 9730 View (02) 5104 9730
Photo of Promise Igba, Social Worker, AMHSW
Promise Igba
Social Worker, AMHSW
Curtin, ACT 2605
I’m a compassionate, evidence-informed counsellor who creates a confidential, non-judgmental space where individuals and couples can explore life’s challenges, regain emotional balance, and build meaningful momentum toward the life they want. I work collaboratively with adults, young people and couples across a range of concerns including relationship conflict, anxiety and stress, trauma, and life transition. Blending warm, empathetic support with practical tools from evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, schema work and Gottman Method Couples Therapy. My approach is grounded in respect, curiosity and partnership.
I’m a compassionate, evidence-informed counsellor who creates a confidential, non-judgmental space where individuals and couples can explore life’s challenges, regain emotional balance, and build meaningful momentum toward the life they want. I work collaboratively with adults, young people and couples across a range of concerns including relationship conflict, anxiety and stress, trauma, and life transition. Blending warm, empathetic support with practical tools from evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, schema work and Gottman Method Couples Therapy. My approach is grounded in respect, curiosity and partnership.
(02) 5950 6787 View (02) 5950 6787
Photo of Paul Laurence Dykes - Paul Dykes Counselling Canberra, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Paul Dykes Counselling Canberra
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Evatt, ACT 2617
I work with individuals, couples and professionals, offering a grounded, respectful and practical approach to therapy. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, burnt out or disconnected, we’ll work together to understand what’s happening beneath the surface... and find a way forward that feels right for you. I specialise in anxiety, relationship conflict, emotional reactivity, addiction and long-standing patterns that feel hard to shift. I also support clients with anger management and emotional regulation, with a strong focus on building awareness, control and deeper connection.
I work with individuals, couples and professionals, offering a grounded, respectful and practical approach to therapy. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, burnt out or disconnected, we’ll work together to understand what’s happening beneath the surface... and find a way forward that feels right for you. I specialise in anxiety, relationship conflict, emotional reactivity, addiction and long-standing patterns that feel hard to shift. I also support clients with anger management and emotional regulation, with a strong focus on building awareness, control and deeper connection.
(02) 6190 0573 View (02) 6190 0573
Diksha Singla
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Serves Area
You may be functioning on the outside — working, studying, showing up — while internally feeling anxious, disconnected, or emotionally drained. You might find yourself overthinking everything, repeating relationship patterns, or quietly questioning your self-worth. Even when nothing looks “wrong,” something doesn’t feel settled inside. Many people come to therapy not because they are broken, but because coping alone has become exhausting.
You may be functioning on the outside — working, studying, showing up — while internally feeling anxious, disconnected, or emotionally drained. You might find yourself overthinking everything, repeating relationship patterns, or quietly questioning your self-worth. Even when nothing looks “wrong,” something doesn’t feel settled inside. Many people come to therapy not because they are broken, but because coping alone has become exhausting.
0415 785 149 View 0415 785 149

See more therapy options for Australian Capital Territory

Child Therapists
Do I need to attend therapy with my child?
Parents are an integral part of a child’s therapy, but the specifics of their involvement vary. If your child is young, you may attend most or all sessions; if your child is older, you may attend a few sessions or none; sometimes a therapist may ask you to have a session on your own. Whatever the arrangement, you should expect to work collaboratively with the therapist, your child, and your family members to take steps to help support your child.

How long are sessions with child therapists?
Children’s therapy sessions can last 30 minutes, 45 minutes, or 60 minutes. The length of the session may depend on your child’s age and the type of therapy practiced. You can discuss this with therapists you consult and the one you ultimately move forward with.

How do I get a child to agree to seek therapy?
The best approach is to have an open-ended conversation with your child about how they’re doing and what they might be struggling with. When you raise therapy, discuss the concept in an age-appropriate way, for example explaining that a therapist’s job is to help kids handle their hard or uncomfortable feelings. Frame therapy positively, as an opportunity to explore and build emotional skills—it’s an important tool in the toolbox to help kids feel their best.

How can I tell if a therapist is a good fit for my child?
A child needs to feel comfortable opening up about their thoughts and feelings, so if your child feels a sense of comfort, ease, and trust with their therapist, that’s a great sign. In addition, a therapist is a good fit for your child if the two can communicate well together; a clinician should be able to communicate clearly, effectively, and in an age-appropriate manner.