Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Fairy Meadow
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).
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.
Colour outside the lines with Art Therapy!
Expressing yourself with just words can sometimes be tough. Art therapy offers you a safe and creative space to visualise your inner world rather than just talking about it. As an art psychotherapist, I am here to help you explore and share your feelings using creative materials in a warm and supportive environment. Together, we work to understand and embrace emotions that might feel too overwhelming to talk about, while finding ways to manage them and take charge of your life.
Colour outside the lines with Art Therapy!
Expressing yourself with just words can sometimes be tough. Art therapy offers you a safe and creative space to visualise your inner world rather than just talking about it. As an art psychotherapist, I am here to help you explore and share your feelings using creative materials in a warm and supportive environment. Together, we work to understand and embrace emotions that might feel too overwhelming to talk about, while finding ways to manage them and take charge of your life.
I also conduct comprehensive Autism and ADHD assessments.
Taking the first step to reach out for support can feel like a big leap and I want you to know that you're not alone in this. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all experience. We are all unique, and my goal is to work alongside you to create a treatment plan that is as individual as you are. Together, we will explore your struggles, discover your strengths, and find practical ways to improve your wellbeing. I take a warm, compassionate approach to therapy, creating a space where you feel heard, supported, and ready to take on new challenges with confidence.
I also conduct comprehensive Autism and ADHD assessments.
Taking the first step to reach out for support can feel like a big leap and I want you to know that you're not alone in this. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all experience. We are all unique, and my goal is to work alongside you to create a treatment plan that is as individual as you are. Together, we will explore your struggles, discover your strengths, and find practical ways to improve your wellbeing. I take a warm, compassionate approach to therapy, creating a space where you feel heard, supported, and ready to take on new challenges with confidence.
Bright Minds Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Fairy Meadow, NSW 2519
Waitlist for new clients
I also have a wealth of experience in working with clients with neurodivergent needs including those with Autism and/or ADHD; adapting therapeutic processes and environments to ensure that their therapy experience is neuroaffirming.
I can offer evidence-based therapies (including CBT, ACT) for common issues including, anxiety disorders; mood difficulties and emotion regulation issues; low self-esteem; social and behavioural difficulties; school refusal and bullying
All of the work I do with kids is based on a comprehensive clinical assessment, and aligned with best practice.
I also have a wealth of experience in working with clients with neurodivergent needs including those with Autism and/or ADHD; adapting therapeutic processes and environments to ensure that their therapy experience is neuroaffirming.
I can offer evidence-based therapies (including CBT, ACT) for common issues including, anxiety disorders; mood difficulties and emotion regulation issues; low self-esteem; social and behavioural difficulties; school refusal and bullying
All of the work I do with kids is based on a comprehensive clinical assessment, and aligned with best practice.
My goal is to make therapy feel safe and affirming for all people, including neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ folk.
Choosing a new psychologist can be scary; there are so many unknowns around a relationship that requires so much trust so quickly! I know exactly how this feels. I've added as much information about myself on this page as I can (within the word limits), and I promise I'll do my best to make you feel comfortable and welcome from your first session onwards.
My goal is to make therapy feel safe and affirming for all people, including neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ folk.
Choosing a new psychologist can be scary; there are so many unknowns around a relationship that requires so much trust so quickly! I know exactly how this feels. I've added as much information about myself on this page as I can (within the word limits), and I promise I'll do my best to make you feel comfortable and welcome from your first session onwards.
Could I be neurodivergent?
For 5 years I've worked across diverse mental health settings, from community mental health, university clinics, private practice, and crisis support offering therapy & assessments, developing skills in trauma, anxiety, panic and depression. Previously I spent over a decade in the business world, providing first hand experience of career transition.
Could I be neurodivergent?
For 5 years I've worked across diverse mental health settings, from community mental health, university clinics, private practice, and crisis support offering therapy & assessments, developing skills in trauma, anxiety, panic and depression. Previously I spent over a decade in the business world, providing first hand experience of career transition.
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.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that everyone is doing their best given their experiences, and support available to them.
I have a preference for a parts-based approach, primarily utilising Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS) to support individuals' in understanding themselves and their intentions.
I am currently accepting bookings for adults and young people, supporting with anxiety and mood concerns, trauma, attachment and interpersonal concerns, adjustment, distress tolerance, and stress management.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that everyone is doing their best given their experiences, and support available to them.
I have a preference for a parts-based approach, primarily utilising Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS) to support individuals' in understanding themselves and their intentions.
I am currently accepting bookings for adults and young people, supporting with anxiety and mood concerns, trauma, attachment and interpersonal concerns, adjustment, distress tolerance, and stress management.
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.
My approach is warm, genuine, relaxed and empathic and I place strong emphasis on building meaningful therapeutic relationships with clients, believing that feeling safe, understood and respected is the foundation for meaningful change.
I provide therapy for a range of psychological and emotional needs for children, families, youth and adults.
My approach is warm, genuine, relaxed and empathic and I place strong emphasis on building meaningful therapeutic relationships with clients, believing that feeling safe, understood and respected is the foundation for meaningful change.
I provide therapy for a range of psychological and emotional needs for children, families, youth and adults.
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.
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.
*Post and perinatal depression *Neurodevelopmental Disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD), ADHD *Cognitive Assessments: including WISC-V, WPPSI- IV, and *Parenting Skills Training for behavioural management of children and adolescents with challenging behaviours.
In my interventions, I draw upon a range of therapeutic approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Emotion Focused Therapy and Schema Based Therapy.
*Post and perinatal depression *Neurodevelopmental Disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD), ADHD *Cognitive Assessments: including WISC-V, WPPSI- IV, and *Parenting Skills Training for behavioural management of children and adolescents with challenging behaviours.
In my interventions, I draw upon a range of therapeutic approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Emotion Focused Therapy and Schema Based Therapy.
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.
More Therapists Nearby
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.
Paula Garrido Clinical Psychologist NDIS
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
A safe, compassionate space for adults navigating anxiety, stress, trauma, and life transitions. Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, especially when you're used to carrying things on your own. You may be feeling anxious, emotionally exhausted, stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or simply unsure about your next step in life. Whatever has brought you here, you don’t have to face it alone. Paula Garrido Clinical Psychologist, Couple, Family Therapist: Appointments are $253 for NDIS (No gap) Medicare appointments ($149 Medicare rebate); $350 for couple therapy appointments; $450 for family therapy appointments.
A safe, compassionate space for adults navigating anxiety, stress, trauma, and life transitions. Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, especially when you're used to carrying things on your own. You may be feeling anxious, emotionally exhausted, stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or simply unsure about your next step in life. Whatever has brought you here, you don’t have to face it alone. Paula Garrido Clinical Psychologist, Couple, Family Therapist: Appointments are $253 for NDIS (No gap) Medicare appointments ($149 Medicare rebate); $350 for couple therapy appointments; $450 for family therapy appointments.
NDIS participants, we provide support focusing on capacity building, emotional wellbeing, and improving daily functioning. Our approach is respectful, flexible, and tailored to each participant’s individual goals and needs.
NDIS participants, we provide support focusing on capacity building, emotional wellbeing, and improving daily functioning. Our approach is respectful, flexible, and tailored to each participant’s individual goals and needs.
My approach is you-centered, which means whilst I would try to gently initiate explorations, you, the client, are always in the driver's seat. Further, my stance on providing trauma-informed care includes acknowledging that some of our pasts can still be a place too hard to revisit, too unbearable to face. I affirm that to do a deep work together does not necessarily need a revisit the gory details of your traumatic past. Still, trauma is a shadow with many faces; people also process differently. So when you'd wish & your safety toolkit is in place, I will be walking with you through every step of opening that can.
My approach is you-centered, which means whilst I would try to gently initiate explorations, you, the client, are always in the driver's seat. Further, my stance on providing trauma-informed care includes acknowledging that some of our pasts can still be a place too hard to revisit, too unbearable to face. I affirm that to do a deep work together does not necessarily need a revisit the gory details of your traumatic past. Still, trauma is a shadow with many faces; people also process differently. So when you'd wish & your safety toolkit is in place, I will be walking with you through every step of opening that can.
I’m a registered psychologist offering telehealth across Australia for neurodivergent adolescents and adults, and for parents and carers of children with developmental differences or complex/rare health conditions.
I work collaboratively and practically using evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, and REBT that can be adapted to suit neurodivergent ways of thinking, feeling, and processing. Therapy is guided by your goals and circumstances, with a focus on reducing distress and building workable strategies for when life feels uncertain or can’t easily be “fixed”
I’m a registered psychologist offering telehealth across Australia for neurodivergent adolescents and adults, and for parents and carers of children with developmental differences or complex/rare health conditions.
I work collaboratively and practically using evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, and REBT that can be adapted to suit neurodivergent ways of thinking, feeling, and processing. Therapy is guided by your goals and circumstances, with a focus on reducing distress and building workable strategies for when life feels uncertain or can’t easily be “fixed”
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Fairy Meadow
- Balgownie
- Bulli
- Corrimal
- Dapto
- Figtree
- North Wollongong
- Port Kembla
- Thirroul
- Unanderra
- Warrawong
- Wollongong
- Woonona
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.