Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Dapto

Photo of Tiarna Cunial, Art Therapist
Tiarna Cunial
Art Therapist
Dapto, NSW 2530
My bread and butter is autism, adhd, trauma and psychosocial disability.
My main focus is autism and psychosocial disability, I offer a trauma informed, aba free therapy environment, I practice with a person centered approach, I am trained in dbt, cbt, act and solutions focused therapy as well as more traditional art therapy which is much more free form. My studio offers traditional art supplies as well as high tech ones
My bread and butter is autism, adhd, trauma and psychosocial disability.
My main focus is autism and psychosocial disability, I offer a trauma informed, aba free therapy environment, I practice with a person centered approach, I am trained in dbt, cbt, act and solutions focused therapy as well as more traditional art therapy which is much more free form. My studio offers traditional art supplies as well as high tech ones
(02) 4208 0649 View (02) 4208 0649
Photo of Sara Oldfield, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sara Oldfield
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
She specialises in neuro-affirming support ( Autism, ADHD, OCD) as well as helping individuals to manage mood difficulties, anxiety, stress, trauma, and life transitions.
Medicare, WorkCover and NDIS support! Sara is a compassionate Clinical Psychologist with more than 15 years of experience. Committed to providing high-quality care, backed by evidence based treatment and up to date research. Sara adopts a client-centered approach, tailoring treatment to individual's needs and goals. Her practice is informed by evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
She specialises in neuro-affirming support ( Autism, ADHD, OCD) as well as helping individuals to manage mood difficulties, anxiety, stress, trauma, and life transitions.
Medicare, WorkCover and NDIS support! Sara is a compassionate Clinical Psychologist with more than 15 years of experience. Committed to providing high-quality care, backed by evidence based treatment and up to date research. Sara adopts a client-centered approach, tailoring treatment to individual's needs and goals. Her practice is informed by evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(02) 4214 4479 View (02) 4214 4479
Photo of Abbey Christine Orchard - Psychologist - Orchard Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Psychologist - Orchard Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a neurodivergent psychologist, my lived experience greatly informs the way I practice.
Hi, I’m Abbey, a psychologist who supports teenagers and adults to better understand themselves, reconnect with their strengths, and get to the root of their problems. I work with a range of mental health challenges and can collaborate with clients to find sustainable strategies.
As a neurodivergent psychologist, my lived experience greatly informs the way I practice.
Hi, I’m Abbey, a psychologist who supports teenagers and adults to better understand themselves, reconnect with their strengths, and get to the root of their problems. I work with a range of mental health challenges and can collaborate with clients to find sustainable strategies.
(02) 4214 4167 View (02) 4214 4167
Photo of Olivia Hawkins - Olivia Hawkins Psychology , Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Olivia Hawkins Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
You might be experiencing anxiety or depression, seeking ways to manage ADHD or autism, or working through trauma and PTSD.
Using evidence-based approaches, we offer individual and couples therapy, specialised child and adolescent counselling, and play therapy incorporating art, sand tray, and AutPlay techniques. Our approach creates a safe space where children and adults can develop resilience, enhance communication skills, build self-worth, and improve emotional regulation.
You might be experiencing anxiety or depression, seeking ways to manage ADHD or autism, or working through trauma and PTSD.
Using evidence-based approaches, we offer individual and couples therapy, specialised child and adolescent counselling, and play therapy incorporating art, sand tray, and AutPlay techniques. Our approach creates a safe space where children and adults can develop resilience, enhance communication skills, build self-worth, and improve emotional regulation.
(02) 4214 4120 View (02) 4214 4120
Photo of Joe Orlandi, Counsellor
Joe Orlandi
Counsellor
Serves Area
I provide counselling and mentoring supports to assist you develop personal insight and address distressing and overwhelming emotions you may be facing due to anxiety, depression, or trauma. I can work with neurodiverse people and have over 18 years experience working with families and people in crisis. I endeavour to make genuine connections with you so you feel safe and supported to explore yourself and empower you to contribute to your own solutions.
I provide counselling and mentoring supports to assist you develop personal insight and address distressing and overwhelming emotions you may be facing due to anxiety, depression, or trauma. I can work with neurodiverse people and have over 18 years experience working with families and people in crisis. I endeavour to make genuine connections with you so you feel safe and supported to explore yourself and empower you to contribute to your own solutions.
(02) 4214 4668 View (02) 4214 4668
Photo of Jonathan Fowles, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jonathan Fowles
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Jono. I provide psychological support and intervention to adults and young people aged 16+ who are looking for support to reduce their distress, and improve their mental health and overall well-being. I acknowledge that everyone’s experiences are unique, and collaboration and feedback are vital in a therapuetic relationship. I focus on providing a caring, safe, and non-judgemental space to anyone seeking support, and ensure empathy, curiosity, and transparency are the foundation of my support.
Hi, I'm Jono. I provide psychological support and intervention to adults and young people aged 16+ who are looking for support to reduce their distress, and improve their mental health and overall well-being. I acknowledge that everyone’s experiences are unique, and collaboration and feedback are vital in a therapuetic relationship. I focus on providing a caring, safe, and non-judgemental space to anyone seeking support, and ensure empathy, curiosity, and transparency are the foundation of my support.
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Photo of Christelle Ardill-Hofman - Life in Progress, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Life in Progress
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I also work a lot with neurodivergent populations, mood disorders, and members of the LGBTQI+ community.
My name is Christelle Ardill and I am a Psychologist located in the idyllic seaside city of Wollongong. I've been practicing as a Psychologist for 10 years now (time flies when you're having fun) and in this time have committed to developing my professional persona in a way that let's my authentic self shine through. I pride myself on developing genuine therapeutic relationships with my clients, and take an honest and compassionate approach to therapy.
I also work a lot with neurodivergent populations, mood disorders, and members of the LGBTQI+ community.
My name is Christelle Ardill and I am a Psychologist located in the idyllic seaside city of Wollongong. I've been practicing as a Psychologist for 10 years now (time flies when you're having fun) and in this time have committed to developing my professional persona in a way that let's my authentic self shine through. I pride myself on developing genuine therapeutic relationships with my clients, and take an honest and compassionate approach to therapy.
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Photo of Dr Cecilia Kennedy, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Cecilia Kennedy
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Cecilia (she/her). I am trained in clinical psychology through a combined Masters/PhD (UOW) and have experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families across a range of clinical settings and presentations. I have been working in private practice since 2021 and am grateful for the opportunity to do the work that I do. I admire the strength it takes to be vulnerable and value building a safe and compassionate relationship with clients where they can feel supported to explore their challenges. ​​​I have a particular interest in anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma/ complex trauma and pre & post-natal difficulties.
Hi, I'm Cecilia (she/her). I am trained in clinical psychology through a combined Masters/PhD (UOW) and have experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families across a range of clinical settings and presentations. I have been working in private practice since 2021 and am grateful for the opportunity to do the work that I do. I admire the strength it takes to be vulnerable and value building a safe and compassionate relationship with clients where they can feel supported to explore their challenges. ​​​I have a particular interest in anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma/ complex trauma and pre & post-natal difficulties.
(02) 4214 4407 View (02) 4214 4407
Photo of Danielle Waters, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Danielle Waters
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist who can help you to develop personal insight and to address symptoms of range of anxiety disorders; mood related issues; trauma; addiction; distress and overwhelming emotions; life stress; personality challenges and related unhelpful coping; interpersonal and relationship issues; communication skills; neurodivergent affirming.
My approach is warm, compassionate and genuine. I have experience in a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy. I understand everyone is unique and I tailor treatment to your needs.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who can help you to develop personal insight and to address symptoms of range of anxiety disorders; mood related issues; trauma; addiction; distress and overwhelming emotions; life stress; personality challenges and related unhelpful coping; interpersonal and relationship issues; communication skills; neurodivergent affirming.
My approach is warm, compassionate and genuine. I have experience in a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy. I understand everyone is unique and I tailor treatment to your needs.
(02) 8776 3282 View (02) 8776 3282
Photo of Lorelai Burns, Counsellor, PACFA
Lorelai Burns
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Life can become overwhelming, leaving you anxious, exhausted, or unsure how to move forward. You don’t have to face it alone. My approach is gentle, supportive, and trauma-informed, offering a calm space to pause and make sense of what’s happening. Together we’ll explore your experiences, build practical coping tools, and begin the process of healing and rediscovering a sense of balance and hope. Therapy with me is collaborative and centred around what matters most to you — your values, your goals, and your pace. It’s about creating lasting change that feels both empowering and authentic to who you are.
Life can become overwhelming, leaving you anxious, exhausted, or unsure how to move forward. You don’t have to face it alone. My approach is gentle, supportive, and trauma-informed, offering a calm space to pause and make sense of what’s happening. Together we’ll explore your experiences, build practical coping tools, and begin the process of healing and rediscovering a sense of balance and hope. Therapy with me is collaborative and centred around what matters most to you — your values, your goals, and your pace. It’s about creating lasting change that feels both empowering and authentic to who you are.
(02) 4601 5907 View (02) 4601 5907
Photo of Karen Towers, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Karen Towers
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Towers Counselling is a creative & personal service which now specialises with children aged 4 to 13. I have over 30 years of experience with children and teenagers as a teacher. I am a clinical level counsellor & psychotherapist with 15 years of experience with clients from vulnerable backgrounds. I currently work in private practice. Children under the NDIS scheme who are self and plan-managed are able to access sessions. I am also an approved counsellor with Victims Services. Counselling for 22 hours or more can be applied for without a gap fee.
Towers Counselling is a creative & personal service which now specialises with children aged 4 to 13. I have over 30 years of experience with children and teenagers as a teacher. I am a clinical level counsellor & psychotherapist with 15 years of experience with clients from vulnerable backgrounds. I currently work in private practice. Children under the NDIS scheme who are self and plan-managed are able to access sessions. I am also an approved counsellor with Victims Services. Counselling for 22 hours or more can be applied for without a gap fee.
(02) 6189 2981 View (02) 6189 2981
Photo of Jasmin Abbott, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jasmin Abbott
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I also offer Virtual Reality therapy which many clients find engaging and is very effecting in building skills in people on the Autism Spectrum.
I am a NESA accredited proficient teacher and a Registered Psychologist with AHPRA. I’ve spent years as a school counsellor supporting students of all ages, equipping me with an in-depth understanding of the challenges young people face across developmental stages.
I also offer Virtual Reality therapy which many clients find engaging and is very effecting in building skills in people on the Autism Spectrum.
I am a NESA accredited proficient teacher and a Registered Psychologist with AHPRA. I’ve spent years as a school counsellor supporting students of all ages, equipping me with an in-depth understanding of the challenges young people face across developmental stages.
(02) 4404 4622 View (02) 4404 4622
Photo of Jessica Barlow, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Jessica Barlow
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Emotional pain often brings a deep sense of vulnerability, accompanied by a desire for relief and understanding. During these moments, life can feel completely overwhelming, and the loneliness that is so often experienced only intensifies the pain. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness but a powerful acknowledgment that we are not meant to face life’s difficulties on our own. Accepting help from others, both giving and receiving, is a law of nature.
Emotional pain often brings a deep sense of vulnerability, accompanied by a desire for relief and understanding. During these moments, life can feel completely overwhelming, and the loneliness that is so often experienced only intensifies the pain. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness but a powerful acknowledgment that we are not meant to face life’s difficulties on our own. Accepting help from others, both giving and receiving, is a law of nature.
0406 194 973 View 0406 194 973
Photo of Ashleigh Rowe, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Ashleigh Rowe
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist providing therapy to adolescents (15+) and adults in Wollongong or online Australia-wide.
I am a Clinical Psychologist providing therapy to adolescents (15+) and adults in Wollongong or online Australia-wide.
(02) 4210 5682 View (02) 4210 5682
Photo of Felicity Kyngdon, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Felicity Kyngdon
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life is rarely straightforward, and people’s experiences are often layered and complex. Along the way, we encounter challenges that can lead to growth, renewed energy, and hope — and others that can leave us feeling stuck, disconnected, or as though life is moving on without us. These experiences can be deeply confronting and, over time, may erode a person’s sense of confidence, autonomy, and emotional energy. They can affect how we function at work, at home, and in our relationships, or remain hidden beneath the surface, often accompanied by feelings of shame or self-doubt.
Life is rarely straightforward, and people’s experiences are often layered and complex. Along the way, we encounter challenges that can lead to growth, renewed energy, and hope — and others that can leave us feeling stuck, disconnected, or as though life is moving on without us. These experiences can be deeply confronting and, over time, may erode a person’s sense of confidence, autonomy, and emotional energy. They can affect how we function at work, at home, and in our relationships, or remain hidden beneath the surface, often accompanied by feelings of shame or self-doubt.
(02) 4214 8705 View (02) 4214 8705

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alexandra Connell - Connection Point Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Connection Point Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
I specialise in working with neurodivergent individuals, with experience across the lifespan.
Working across multiple locations and clinics has allowed me the chance to develop skills in a range of areas, including early childhood (5+), adolescence, and into adulthood. This has also given me the opportunity to develop clinical therapeutic skills while also expanding my knowledge in the diagnostic assessment space.
I specialise in working with neurodivergent individuals, with experience across the lifespan.
Working across multiple locations and clinics has allowed me the chance to develop skills in a range of areas, including early childhood (5+), adolescence, and into adulthood. This has also given me the opportunity to develop clinical therapeutic skills while also expanding my knowledge in the diagnostic assessment space.
(02) 4307 5508 View (02) 4307 5508
Photo of Yelka Saric, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Yelka Saric
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am currently offering assessment for Autism and ADHD, WPATH Trans Surgery Readiness assessment, as well as 1:1 therapy.
Assessments Available - As a psychologist, I practice in an authentically human way, which means you will see my personality, eccentricities, my house plants and my cat during sessions. I have experience working therapeutically with people from many different backgrounds, mental health concerns and life experiences in a client-centered way.
I am currently offering assessment for Autism and ADHD, WPATH Trans Surgery Readiness assessment, as well as 1:1 therapy.
Assessments Available - As a psychologist, I practice in an authentically human way, which means you will see my personality, eccentricities, my house plants and my cat during sessions. I have experience working therapeutically with people from many different backgrounds, mental health concerns and life experiences in a client-centered way.
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Photo of Suzzanne Legge, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Suzzanne Legge
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Albion Park Rail, NSW 2527
I also have a particular interest in assisting clients in discovering and exploring their wonderful neurodivergent selves.
My approach in therapy involves focussing on both your strengths, and your needs, in a compassionate, empathic, and non-judgmental way. I have a commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for you as you heal, and move from surviving to thriving.
I also have a particular interest in assisting clients in discovering and exploring their wonderful neurodivergent selves.
My approach in therapy involves focussing on both your strengths, and your needs, in a compassionate, empathic, and non-judgmental way. I have a commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for you as you heal, and move from surviving to thriving.
(02) 4214 4647 View (02) 4214 4647
Photo of Tyla Stroebel, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Tyla Stroebel
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a special interest in assessing the more internalized presentations of Adhd and autism.
I currently offer comprehensive diagnostic, cognitive, learning, and behavioural assessments across a range of areas including: Autism (including PDA profiles); ADHD; Global Developmental Delay; Specific Learning Differences (like Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Dyscalculia); Neuropsych & Career Assessments; Functional Capacity Assessments for NDIS.
I have a special interest in assessing the more internalized presentations of Adhd and autism.
I currently offer comprehensive diagnostic, cognitive, learning, and behavioural assessments across a range of areas including: Autism (including PDA profiles); ADHD; Global Developmental Delay; Specific Learning Differences (like Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Dyscalculia); Neuropsych & Career Assessments; Functional Capacity Assessments for NDIS.
(02) 8105 6892 View (02) 8105 6892
Photo of Anita S, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Anita S
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Fairy Meadow, NSW 2519
She has particular interests in anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma and PTSD, life transitions and adjustment difficulties, eating and body image concerns, Intellectual Disability, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Anita helps clients feel safe, and empowered while developing practical skills, processing difficult experiences, and working towards meaningful change.
She has particular interests in anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma and PTSD, life transitions and adjustment difficulties, eating and body image concerns, Intellectual Disability, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Anita helps clients feel safe, and empowered while developing practical skills, processing difficult experiences, and working towards meaningful change.
(02) 8105 6470 View (02) 8105 6470
Autism Therapists
What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?
Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?
Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.