Autism Counselling in Mid North Coast, NSW

Photo of Gabrielle Gawne-Kelnar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Gabrielle Gawne-Kelnar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Grafton, NSW 2460
My areas of specialty include autism and neurodiversity support; living with chronic or life-limiting illness; overcoming anxiety and depression; and living with grief or bereavement.
I'm a counsellor, psychotherapist and social work therapist with over 15 years of experience and extensive professional training. Guided by your life and preferences, together we can draw from many different therapy modalities, and work holistically to uncover and deepen your strengths. We will discover and enrich the values that really matter to you, and that can help you navigate your life with more meaning. I can share helpful strategies to support you, your child and family through challenging times. Together, we'll unearth the answers and experience you already hold within you, so you can walk toward healing and hope again.
My areas of specialty include autism and neurodiversity support; living with chronic or life-limiting illness; overcoming anxiety and depression; and living with grief or bereavement.
I'm a counsellor, psychotherapist and social work therapist with over 15 years of experience and extensive professional training. Guided by your life and preferences, together we can draw from many different therapy modalities, and work holistically to uncover and deepen your strengths. We will discover and enrich the values that really matter to you, and that can help you navigate your life with more meaning. I can share helpful strategies to support you, your child and family through challenging times. Together, we'll unearth the answers and experience you already hold within you, so you can walk toward healing and hope again.
(02) 6422 6265 View (02) 6422 6265
Photo of Nicole Osborn - Art of Mindful Psychology - Nicole Osborn, Psychotherapist
Art of Mindful Psychology - Nicole Osborn
Psychotherapist
Serves Area
I am an NDIS Registered Child and Adolescent Psycotherapist sp in Autism with Advanced training in Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
I enjoy observing individuals behaviour and gently searching ways to tap in to help the individual. Just because one person may have the same diagnosis as the next does not mean that the same techniques will work. I enjoy supporting parents, siblings and teachers. A open holistic manner = best results.
I am an NDIS Registered Child and Adolescent Psycotherapist sp in Autism with Advanced training in Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
I enjoy observing individuals behaviour and gently searching ways to tap in to help the individual. Just because one person may have the same diagnosis as the next does not mean that the same techniques will work. I enjoy supporting parents, siblings and teachers. A open holistic manner = best results.
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Photo of Nicolle Griffin, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Nicolle Griffin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Very Helpful Chats offers ADHD & Autism assessments, mental health treatment, counselling, occupational therapy, ADHD coaching, and social-therapeutic groups to the neurodivergent community.
What is the neurodiversity-affirming approach? The understanding that ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia and other neurodivergence are natural differences in human development. Neurodivergence is not a 'disorder', 'deficiency', or a 'condition' requiring treatment. You are not broken and you do not need to be fixed!
Very Helpful Chats offers ADHD & Autism assessments, mental health treatment, counselling, occupational therapy, ADHD coaching, and social-therapeutic groups to the neurodivergent community.
What is the neurodiversity-affirming approach? The understanding that ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia and other neurodivergence are natural differences in human development. Neurodivergence is not a 'disorder', 'deficiency', or a 'condition' requiring treatment. You are not broken and you do not need to be fixed!
(02) 9100 0205 View (02) 9100 0205
Photo of Tim Murray, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Tim Murray
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
I specialise in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, stress), neurological disorders ( autism, ADHD, learning difficulties), and family systems.
I may be the right fit for you if you're feeling overwhelmed by stress, depression, anxiety, or challenging relationships. I can also help if you’re struggling to navigate personal identity or feeling like an imposter in your own life. Bulk billing is available for clients with a Mental Health Treatment Plan (GP referral).
I specialise in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, stress), neurological disorders ( autism, ADHD, learning difficulties), and family systems.
I may be the right fit for you if you're feeling overwhelmed by stress, depression, anxiety, or challenging relationships. I can also help if you’re struggling to navigate personal identity or feeling like an imposter in your own life. Bulk billing is available for clients with a Mental Health Treatment Plan (GP referral).
(03) 7003 2101 View (03) 7003 2101
Photo of Linda Harrison, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Linda Harrison
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
I have extensive experience with adult ADHD/ Autism, women's mental health, gender/sexual identity trauma and family relationship issues.
NOTE: My books have re-opened and I have a few spots available. Description: Are you feeling low, anxious, sad, burnt out or struggling to concentrate and focus? I specialise in Adult ADHD, gender/sexual identity, depression, anxiety, hormones/ menopause and stresses of life, work and relationships. I offer telehealth therapy to clients in rural, regional and metro areas. I believe that a positive relationship is key to change for clients. Importantly, therapy should be engaging and even enjoyable! I trust that with the right strategies, everyone can thrive, and it's my privilege to help them on their path to a more contented life.
I have extensive experience with adult ADHD/ Autism, women's mental health, gender/sexual identity trauma and family relationship issues.
NOTE: My books have re-opened and I have a few spots available. Description: Are you feeling low, anxious, sad, burnt out or struggling to concentrate and focus? I specialise in Adult ADHD, gender/sexual identity, depression, anxiety, hormones/ menopause and stresses of life, work and relationships. I offer telehealth therapy to clients in rural, regional and metro areas. I believe that a positive relationship is key to change for clients. Importantly, therapy should be engaging and even enjoyable! I trust that with the right strategies, everyone can thrive, and it's my privilege to help them on their path to a more contented life.
(02) 8503 8915 View (02) 8503 8915
Olivia Sakamoto
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Olivia's experience as a Clinical Counsellor comes with more than 1.5 decades in private practice and pastoral care roles. Specialising in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, workplace bullying, addictions, relationship counselling, family/blended, mediation, child and young adults, grief and anger management. Clientele utilise workplace EAP, Work Cover (SIRA qualified) and NDIS & private clients with an age range of 6 to 85 years. Face to Face, Video-link or Phone sessions are offered. Olivia who is known for her sincere, peaceful and non-judgmental manner uses evidence based therapies recognising there is no one size fits all.
Olivia's experience as a Clinical Counsellor comes with more than 1.5 decades in private practice and pastoral care roles. Specialising in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, workplace bullying, addictions, relationship counselling, family/blended, mediation, child and young adults, grief and anger management. Clientele utilise workplace EAP, Work Cover (SIRA qualified) and NDIS & private clients with an age range of 6 to 85 years. Face to Face, Video-link or Phone sessions are offered. Olivia who is known for her sincere, peaceful and non-judgmental manner uses evidence based therapies recognising there is no one size fits all.
(02) 6564 1972 View (02) 6564 1972
Photo of Don Mackenzie - Social Sense Allied Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Social Sense Allied Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Social Sense Allied Health is a therapy practice based in the Wellbeing Centre at Abbotsford Convent (Vic, 3067). We are a team of experts in complexity, dedicated to co-creating a therapeutic alliance to meet your goals. We offer mental health, trauma, functional and behavioural services under NDIS, Victims of Crime, Medicare, Workers Compensation, EAP and Private Health Funds. We also provide clinical supervision for social workers, youth workers, counsellors and other human services professionals. We offer clinical training and professional templates for human services professionals to support their private practice.
Social Sense Allied Health is a therapy practice based in the Wellbeing Centre at Abbotsford Convent (Vic, 3067). We are a team of experts in complexity, dedicated to co-creating a therapeutic alliance to meet your goals. We offer mental health, trauma, functional and behavioural services under NDIS, Victims of Crime, Medicare, Workers Compensation, EAP and Private Health Funds. We also provide clinical supervision for social workers, youth workers, counsellors and other human services professionals. We offer clinical training and professional templates for human services professionals to support their private practice.
(02) 8806 0401 View (02) 8806 0401
Photo of Caroline Marcela Kornek, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Caroline Marcela Kornek
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I’m Caroline. I’m a dedicated registered psychologist with a person-centered and neuro-affirmative approach to my practice. I know therapy can be a daunting experience where you’re put in a very vulnerable position with a stranger. I try to create a space where my clients can take their time to open up, so they feel emotionally safe and ultimately seen.
Hello, I’m Caroline. I’m a dedicated registered psychologist with a person-centered and neuro-affirmative approach to my practice. I know therapy can be a daunting experience where you’re put in a very vulnerable position with a stranger. I try to create a space where my clients can take their time to open up, so they feel emotionally safe and ultimately seen.
(07) 4065 8143 View (07) 4065 8143
Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Alena Piccolruaz
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Taree, NSW 2430
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
(02) 9159 6930 View (02) 9159 6930
Photo of Shené Regan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Shené Regan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Hey there! I'm Shené, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, specialising in supporting children, adolescents, and women. From a young age, I envisioned creating a place where children and their families could find the support they need. Over time, this vision has evolved. Today, I am driven not only to assist children coping with loss but also to support anyone navigating the profound impact of trauma, and grief and loss. My passion extends to nurturing thriving families, with a particular focus on supporting new mothers and their babies through the transformative and often challenging post-natal period and beyond.
Hey there! I'm Shené, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, specialising in supporting children, adolescents, and women. From a young age, I envisioned creating a place where children and their families could find the support they need. Over time, this vision has evolved. Today, I am driven not only to assist children coping with loss but also to support anyone navigating the profound impact of trauma, and grief and loss. My passion extends to nurturing thriving families, with a particular focus on supporting new mothers and their babies through the transformative and often challenging post-natal period and beyond.
(02) 5503 9424 View (02) 5503 9424
Photo of Robert M Curtis - Learning Curves Psychological Consultancy, Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Learning Curves Psychological Consultancy
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Taree, NSW 2430
There are times in life when we are not at our best. We find ourselves without the energy and insight into how to make it right again. Your psychologist will work with you in a safe and respectful way, helping you to reconnect with inner resources and values that will enable you to make meaning of your life journey and once more step forward with purpose and enjoyment.
There are times in life when we are not at our best. We find ourselves without the energy and insight into how to make it right again. Your psychologist will work with you in a safe and respectful way, helping you to reconnect with inner resources and values that will enable you to make meaning of your life journey and once more step forward with purpose and enjoyment.
(02) 5564 4097 View (02) 5564 4097
Photo of AJP Psychology - AJP Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
AJP Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450
A life event that destabilises us can create all range of emotions and behavioural responses without our awareness and in turn, cause additional distress to your life. When we feel threatened, challenged or overwhelmed - our thoughts, feelings and behaviours can be all consuming. Without emotional processing and resolving the distress can form unhealthy maladaptive responses and associations. Engaging in professional help to support you through these events can provide you adaptive ways to respond to your world. Be brave and reach out.
A life event that destabilises us can create all range of emotions and behavioural responses without our awareness and in turn, cause additional distress to your life. When we feel threatened, challenged or overwhelmed - our thoughts, feelings and behaviours can be all consuming. Without emotional processing and resolving the distress can form unhealthy maladaptive responses and associations. Engaging in professional help to support you through these events can provide you adaptive ways to respond to your world. Be brave and reach out.
(02) 5302 8029 View (02) 5302 8029
Photo of Sonia Allsop - Clean Healing Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Clean Healing Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Maclean, NSW 2463
Clean Healing Counselling is dedicated to providing a wide array of counselling services to clients aged 16 years and older. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. We specialize in couples counselling, as well as counselling for trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss, low self-esteem, life coaching, parenting support and cancer counselling. Our focus is on guiding individuals and couples through their challenges by offering a secure environment to initiate and navigate their healing journey.
Clean Healing Counselling is dedicated to providing a wide array of counselling services to clients aged 16 years and older. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. We specialize in couples counselling, as well as counselling for trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss, low self-esteem, life coaching, parenting support and cancer counselling. Our focus is on guiding individuals and couples through their challenges by offering a secure environment to initiate and navigate their healing journey.
(03) 6413 2210 View (03) 6413 2210
Photo of Debrah Russell-Sahami, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Debrah Russell-Sahami
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Online Only
Hi, I'm Deb. I provide affordable telehealth counselling. My areas of interest are Grief; Loss; Anxiety and Trauma. Unresolved grief or loss can be a catalyst stopping you from feeling joy. I can support you as you navigate these challenges and make meaning; I work with all areas of loss - pet loss; loss of health; career/job; divorce support; or if you are feeling isolated or stuck with your feelings and need a compassionate and supportive counsellor then please reach out. My space is neuroaffirming. I work with ages 10years and above. I can support with school avoidance and anxiety.
Hi, I'm Deb. I provide affordable telehealth counselling. My areas of interest are Grief; Loss; Anxiety and Trauma. Unresolved grief or loss can be a catalyst stopping you from feeling joy. I can support you as you navigate these challenges and make meaning; I work with all areas of loss - pet loss; loss of health; career/job; divorce support; or if you are feeling isolated or stuck with your feelings and need a compassionate and supportive counsellor then please reach out. My space is neuroaffirming. I work with ages 10years and above. I can support with school avoidance and anxiety.
(02) 5604 6456 View (02) 5604 6456
Photo of Donna-Marie Thompson, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Donna-Marie Thompson
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Dee Thompson is a Clinical Psychologist with a strong interest in supporting women's health and mental health in an integrative and holistic framework. Dee is available for individual therapy for women seeking support with issues related to: - Adjustment difficulties (e.g., change in/loss of job, new health diagnoses, stage-of-life transitions, relationship breakdown, retirement) - Anxiety, panic or stress - Support in adjusting to later-in-life identification of neurodivergence (Autistics, ADHDers or AuDHDers) - Trauma - Chronic pain management - Recovering from domestic violence - Insomnia
Dee Thompson is a Clinical Psychologist with a strong interest in supporting women's health and mental health in an integrative and holistic framework. Dee is available for individual therapy for women seeking support with issues related to: - Adjustment difficulties (e.g., change in/loss of job, new health diagnoses, stage-of-life transitions, relationship breakdown, retirement) - Anxiety, panic or stress - Support in adjusting to later-in-life identification of neurodivergence (Autistics, ADHDers or AuDHDers) - Trauma - Chronic pain management - Recovering from domestic violence - Insomnia
Photo of Robin Schep - Counselling Solution—Forster & Port Macquarie, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Counselling Solution—Forster & Port Macquarie
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
When people first speak with us, they express feelings like, desperate, angry, helpless, stressed, lost, no-sense-of–belonging, not-good-enough, overwhelmed, and not-knowing-where-to-start. You may be feeling desperate, finding your life has unravelled, and that you have lost your way… When we meet, you are inviting us alongside you on your journey seeking understanding, meaning, and direction.
When people first speak with us, they express feelings like, desperate, angry, helpless, stressed, lost, no-sense-of–belonging, not-good-enough, overwhelmed, and not-knowing-where-to-start. You may be feeling desperate, finding your life has unravelled, and that you have lost your way… When we meet, you are inviting us alongside you on your journey seeking understanding, meaning, and direction.
0421 224 070 View 0421 224 070
Photo of Roza Hammon, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Roza Hammon
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi, nice to meet you and welcome :) Finding the right therapist is a journey, and I’m here to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive space for adolescents and adults. Whether you're navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I’m here to walk alongside you with warmth, understanding, and evidence-based strategies that are helpful for mental wellbeing. I offer private sessions, sessions for people with Mental Health Care Plan from GP, DVA cardholders, WorkCover (QLD, NSW, VIC), and NDIS participants (self- or plan-managed). I also offer limited bulk-billing sessions to eligible clients.
Hi, nice to meet you and welcome :) Finding the right therapist is a journey, and I’m here to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive space for adolescents and adults. Whether you're navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I’m here to walk alongside you with warmth, understanding, and evidence-based strategies that are helpful for mental wellbeing. I offer private sessions, sessions for people with Mental Health Care Plan from GP, DVA cardholders, WorkCover (QLD, NSW, VIC), and NDIS participants (self- or plan-managed). I also offer limited bulk-billing sessions to eligible clients.
(08) 7666 2681 View (08) 7666 2681
Photo of Helen Ng, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Helen Ng
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a caring and compassionate multilingual psychologist fluent in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. I work with all age groups and address a wide range of psychological issues, including adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, phobias, mood and thinking disorders, psychosis, life transitions, identity and self-esteem, relationships, cross-cultural challenges, and work-related concerns. I also provide career coaching, pre/post-marriage counselling, parenting advice, Christian counselling, and cognitive assessments.
I am a caring and compassionate multilingual psychologist fluent in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. I work with all age groups and address a wide range of psychological issues, including adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, stress, phobias, mood and thinking disorders, psychosis, life transitions, identity and self-esteem, relationships, cross-cultural challenges, and work-related concerns. I also provide career coaching, pre/post-marriage counselling, parenting advice, Christian counselling, and cognitive assessments.
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Photo of Elizabeth Theiler, Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Elizabeth Theiler
Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
I offer above all my intentional+ deep listening to your conscious/ unconscious concerns. I specialise in tailoring individually suitable therapies. I wish to assist you to open spaces, that can allow reflection and creation towards new internal+ external potentialities+ futurities, unique only to you. I am a Registered Psychologist and Psychoanalyst (Badiou/Lacan), Phd (abd level) with 50 years of expertise. I can practice in English, German or French. I am available on line, by Skype/Zoom (from anywhere in the world) + in person (at my office), by phone (Australia), for home visits (10km radius) for short and longterm therapies.
I offer above all my intentional+ deep listening to your conscious/ unconscious concerns. I specialise in tailoring individually suitable therapies. I wish to assist you to open spaces, that can allow reflection and creation towards new internal+ external potentialities+ futurities, unique only to you. I am a Registered Psychologist and Psychoanalyst (Badiou/Lacan), Phd (abd level) with 50 years of expertise. I can practice in English, German or French. I am available on line, by Skype/Zoom (from anywhere in the world) + in person (at my office), by phone (Australia), for home visits (10km radius) for short and longterm therapies.
(07) 3186 9444 View (07) 3186 9444
Photo of Natasha Kiemel-Incorvaia, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Natasha Kiemel-Incorvaia
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
With over 9 years experience as a psychologist I am skilled at combining a range of trauma (e.g. EMDR), body-based (e.g. somatic) and cognitive based therapies to support my clients holistically. This includes the vagus nerve and gut. I can support you with anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD, mindset, motivation, study, career, relationships, friendships, pregnancy, post-partum, tic disorders and more. My service is a telehealth ONLY service that is streamlined to meet your needs and fit around your busy schedule. I also offer online course options to help support your nervous system if your not your not quite ready to start therapy.
With over 9 years experience as a psychologist I am skilled at combining a range of trauma (e.g. EMDR), body-based (e.g. somatic) and cognitive based therapies to support my clients holistically. This includes the vagus nerve and gut. I can support you with anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD, mindset, motivation, study, career, relationships, friendships, pregnancy, post-partum, tic disorders and more. My service is a telehealth ONLY service that is streamlined to meet your needs and fit around your busy schedule. I also offer online course options to help support your nervous system if your not your not quite ready to start therapy.
(02) 9100 0843 View (02) 9100 0843
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Autism Counsellors

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.