Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Richmond-Tweed, NSW
Brain Care Tweed Heads - Psychology & Neurotherapy
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Tweed Heads, NSW 2485
From Nerida Saunders, Director: As a senior psychologist and approved mentor for neurofeedback practitioners, I have worked with children, teenagers, adults and families in areas such as ADHD, Autism, Behaviour Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Learning Difficulties, Memory Loss, PTSD, and other conditions.
Psychotherapy offers great tools for developing coping strategies, but it is not always enough when problems are persistent. In contrast, qEEG Brain Mapping and Neuromodulation are science-based processes that uncover an individual’s brain function. I find that patients and their families benefit from an approach that combines psychotherapy and neurotherapy.
From Nerida Saunders, Director: As a senior psychologist and approved mentor for neurofeedback practitioners, I have worked with children, teenagers, adults and families in areas such as ADHD, Autism, Behaviour Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Learning Difficulties, Memory Loss, PTSD, and other conditions.
Psychotherapy offers great tools for developing coping strategies, but it is not always enough when problems are persistent. In contrast, qEEG Brain Mapping and Neuromodulation are science-based processes that uncover an individual’s brain function. I find that patients and their families benefit from an approach that combines psychotherapy and neurotherapy.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
I bring experience working with ADHD, Autism, PDA, anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, and the grief or acceptance that can accompany a diagnosis.
I offer a safe, confidential space to explore what matters to you. My approach is person-centred—I show up without an agenda or a script, meeting you where you are. With empathy and broad experience, I support clients facing behavioural challenges, neurodivergence, trauma, relationship issues, and layered life experiences.
I bring experience working with ADHD, Autism, PDA, anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, and the grief or acceptance that can accompany a diagnosis.
I offer a safe, confidential space to explore what matters to you. My approach is person-centred—I show up without an agenda or a script, meeting you where you are. With empathy and broad experience, I support clients facing behavioural challenges, neurodivergence, trauma, relationship issues, and layered life experiences.
I work primarily with families with children up to the age 12, and have a particular interest in working with anxiety, trauma, autism and ADHD.
I enjoy working with young people and families who are goal focused and motivated to make real progress and change. I have a down-to-earth and child friendly manner, with lived experience in the challenges of modern everyday family life. While having a keen interest in supporting the needs of children and families, I also provide support for individuals across the lifespan across a broad range of areas including trauma therapy and EMDR.
I work primarily with families with children up to the age 12, and have a particular interest in working with anxiety, trauma, autism and ADHD.
I enjoy working with young people and families who are goal focused and motivated to make real progress and change. I have a down-to-earth and child friendly manner, with lived experience in the challenges of modern everyday family life. While having a keen interest in supporting the needs of children and families, I also provide support for individuals across the lifespan across a broad range of areas including trauma therapy and EMDR.
I have worked at Headspace and have been working at Child Development Solutions and Sydney Psychology Centre for years where I facilitate social skills groups for children and young people diagnosed somewhere on the Autism Spectrum and/or ADHD.
Whether in person at the clinic, in your own home, or online I can help you become more organised in your mind and feel more supported. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space. In a session with me you may learn about self- compassion, emotional regulation, how to deal with anxiety, PTSD, depression, social skills and increase self-esteem.
I have worked at Headspace and have been working at Child Development Solutions and Sydney Psychology Centre for years where I facilitate social skills groups for children and young people diagnosed somewhere on the Autism Spectrum and/or ADHD.
Whether in person at the clinic, in your own home, or online I can help you become more organised in your mind and feel more supported. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space. In a session with me you may learn about self- compassion, emotional regulation, how to deal with anxiety, PTSD, depression, social skills and increase self-esteem.
At 4Women Psychology we provide compassionate, evidence-based psychological therapy and assessments specifically for young women (13+ yrs) and women across every stage of life. At 4Women Psychology, our team is guided by the 4Women Psychology Pillars of Continuity of Care, Collaboration, Compassion, and Clinical Integrity, ensuring our clients feel supported, understood, and empowered
At 4Women Psychology we provide compassionate, evidence-based psychological therapy and assessments specifically for young women (13+ yrs) and women across every stage of life. At 4Women Psychology, our team is guided by the 4Women Psychology Pillars of Continuity of Care, Collaboration, Compassion, and Clinical Integrity, ensuring our clients feel supported, understood, and empowered
I’m Emily Lewis, an online neurodivergent psychologist, counsellor and coach.
I offer a neuro-affirming, strengths-based approach that honours each person’s unique neurobiology and lived experience. Drawing on ACT, CFT, DBT skills, polyvagal and somatic approaches, I provide a supportive space for self-discovery and practical strategies for identity exploration, executive function, emotional regulation, burnout and self-compassion.
I’m Emily Lewis, an online neurodivergent psychologist, counsellor and coach.
I offer a neuro-affirming, strengths-based approach that honours each person’s unique neurobiology and lived experience. Drawing on ACT, CFT, DBT skills, polyvagal and somatic approaches, I provide a supportive space for self-discovery and practical strategies for identity exploration, executive function, emotional regulation, burnout and self-compassion.
Kathleen is an Australian registered psychologist and clinical psychology registrar. Kathleen has a range of experience working with clients across the lifespan and in different settings including inpatient mental health, acute outpatient mental health, education and private practice. Kathleen is passionate about working collaboratively with clients in an empathic and confidential space that fosters trust, curiosity, and personal growth. She has extensive experience supporting clients with anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, adjustment issues, grief and loss and parenting.
Kathleen is an Australian registered psychologist and clinical psychology registrar. Kathleen has a range of experience working with clients across the lifespan and in different settings including inpatient mental health, acute outpatient mental health, education and private practice. Kathleen is passionate about working collaboratively with clients in an empathic and confidential space that fosters trust, curiosity, and personal growth. She has extensive experience supporting clients with anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, adjustment issues, grief and loss and parenting.
I value individuality, respecting diversity, distinct experiences, belief systems, and unique social, environmental, and cultural influences. Through building a therapeutic connection, I attempt to comprehend one’s motivations and catalysts for purposeful change and personal transformation.
I value individuality, respecting diversity, distinct experiences, belief systems, and unique social, environmental, and cultural influences. Through building a therapeutic connection, I attempt to comprehend one’s motivations and catalysts for purposeful change and personal transformation.
We are a team of nature-loving psychologists and clinical psychologists, with a special focus on supporting children, teens, families, and adults with trauma, ADHD, Autism, anxiety, and NDIS support.
We focus on trauma-informed care, regulation, emotional literacy, connection, mindfulness, and improving self-esteem. We are a very popular clinic for families and children, as many of our clinicians have expertise in supporting children with disabilities, with a strength-based and affirming approach.
We are a team of nature-loving psychologists and clinical psychologists, with a special focus on supporting children, teens, families, and adults with trauma, ADHD, Autism, anxiety, and NDIS support.
We focus on trauma-informed care, regulation, emotional literacy, connection, mindfulness, and improving self-esteem. We are a very popular clinic for families and children, as many of our clinicians have expertise in supporting children with disabilities, with a strength-based and affirming approach.
I work across the lifespan, supporting children, young people, and adults who struggle with anger, anxiety, depression, or addiction, often rooted in relational trauma or neurodivergence. My holistic, body-to-brain approach helps regulate emotions, heal core wounds, and foster personal growth. As a neuro-affirming, inclusive therapist, I provide a safe space for healing, helping clients reconnect with themselves and others, build healthier relationships, and develop emotional resilience for lasting well-being.
I work across the lifespan, supporting children, young people, and adults who struggle with anger, anxiety, depression, or addiction, often rooted in relational trauma or neurodivergence. My holistic, body-to-brain approach helps regulate emotions, heal core wounds, and foster personal growth. As a neuro-affirming, inclusive therapist, I provide a safe space for healing, helping clients reconnect with themselves and others, build healthier relationships, and develop emotional resilience for lasting well-being.
My experience so far has been with youth & adults, often neurodivergent or living with complex mental health challenges, seeking self-understanding.
I offer neuroaffirming, trauma-informed art therapy & counselling. I help clients explore emotions, build self-worth, navigate relationships, and gain independence through creative, client-led, and accessible support.
My experience so far has been with youth & adults, often neurodivergent or living with complex mental health challenges, seeking self-understanding.
I offer neuroaffirming, trauma-informed art therapy & counselling. I help clients explore emotions, build self-worth, navigate relationships, and gain independence through creative, client-led, and accessible support.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating a range of challenges, including neurodivergence (such as autism and ADHD), trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and learning differences.
My ideal client is someone who is reflective and open to exploring the deeper layers of their experience. They may be navigating challenges such as anxiety, neurodivergence, or past trauma, but they are also seeking more than symptom relief—they want to reconnect with meaning, purpose, and joy. They are curious, engaged in their personal growth, and ready to foster a greater sense of fulfillment and authenticity in their lives.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating a range of challenges, including neurodivergence (such as autism and ADHD), trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and learning differences.
My ideal client is someone who is reflective and open to exploring the deeper layers of their experience. They may be navigating challenges such as anxiety, neurodivergence, or past trauma, but they are also seeking more than symptom relief—they want to reconnect with meaning, purpose, and joy. They are curious, engaged in their personal growth, and ready to foster a greater sense of fulfillment and authenticity in their lives.
I help people who feel stuck between who they are and who they feel they’re meant to be. Often, this shows up as anxiety, low mood, overthinking, or a sense of dissatisfaction that’s hard to explain. Therapy offers a place to pause, reflect, and understand these patterns—so they no longer quietly run your life.
My work is thoughtful, practical, and grounded in evidence-based approaches. I aim to create a calm, respectful space where insight and self-compassion can grow. Together, we focus on understanding your inner world, building emotional awareness, and developing skills that support long-term change—not just symptom relief.
I help people who feel stuck between who they are and who they feel they’re meant to be. Often, this shows up as anxiety, low mood, overthinking, or a sense of dissatisfaction that’s hard to explain. Therapy offers a place to pause, reflect, and understand these patterns—so they no longer quietly run your life.
My work is thoughtful, practical, and grounded in evidence-based approaches. I aim to create a calm, respectful space where insight and self-compassion can grow. Together, we focus on understanding your inner world, building emotional awareness, and developing skills that support long-term change—not just symptom relief.
Hi, I’m Jack. I am a psychotherapist, educator, father and long term partner and I came to this work through my own experiences with therapy. I have come to trust that both acceptance and change are possible in our lives. There are many reasons we may begin therapy; we may long for change or hope for opportunities for healing, growth and transformation. Whether there is a particular thing you are struggling with, a need for greater support, or an interest in deepening self-awareness, I can support you on your journey.
Hi, I’m Jack. I am a psychotherapist, educator, father and long term partner and I came to this work through my own experiences with therapy. I have come to trust that both acceptance and change are possible in our lives. There are many reasons we may begin therapy; we may long for change or hope for opportunities for healing, growth and transformation. Whether there is a particular thing you are struggling with, a need for greater support, or an interest in deepening self-awareness, I can support you on your journey.
Hi, I'm Kate. I'm a clinical psych and I'm passionate about forming strong working relationships with clients and working toward a goal together. I have a special interest in trauma as well as body image issues, including body dysmorphia, perinatal and postnatal, post weight-change or other circumstances which might have led you to feel discomfort, shame or even disgust living in your own skin. I am an EMDR therapist and I truly believe it can be used to help any person to let go of the barriers holding them back. If you're reading this bio, it means part of you is ready for that change. Get in touch and we can work the rest out!
Hi, I'm Kate. I'm a clinical psych and I'm passionate about forming strong working relationships with clients and working toward a goal together. I have a special interest in trauma as well as body image issues, including body dysmorphia, perinatal and postnatal, post weight-change or other circumstances which might have led you to feel discomfort, shame or even disgust living in your own skin. I am an EMDR therapist and I truly believe it can be used to help any person to let go of the barriers holding them back. If you're reading this bio, it means part of you is ready for that change. Get in touch and we can work the rest out!
Hi, I’m Shana—counsellor, equine-assisted psychotherapist, late diagnosed ADHD-er & animal lover.
I created Firefly Counselling Services because I am someone who values genuine connection & know how important it is to feel truly seen, heard & understood. Just like fireflies communicate through their own unique light to find the right connections, I believe that surrounding yourself with the right people—those who uplift, support, and accept you—is essential to healing and growth.
Hi, I’m Shana—counsellor, equine-assisted psychotherapist, late diagnosed ADHD-er & animal lover.
I created Firefly Counselling Services because I am someone who values genuine connection & know how important it is to feel truly seen, heard & understood. Just like fireflies communicate through their own unique light to find the right connections, I believe that surrounding yourself with the right people—those who uplift, support, and accept you—is essential to healing and growth.
As a psychologist, I have the privilege of working with you to identify and heal the core issues driving the behaviour causing you pain. It gives me great joy to meet people who are eager to know themselves better and awaken their spiritual essence. When Life is going wrong, I believe life isn’t just happening to you; it’s happening for you to heal parts of self that are caught in a negative emotional cycle.
As a psychologist, I have the privilege of working with you to identify and heal the core issues driving the behaviour causing you pain. It gives me great joy to meet people who are eager to know themselves better and awaken their spiritual essence. When Life is going wrong, I believe life isn’t just happening to you; it’s happening for you to heal parts of self that are caught in a negative emotional cycle.
Anna has extensive knowledge, experience and expertise in the area of mental health, trauma, relationships, neurodiversity and addiction. Anna’s approach to therapy is psychodynamic, holistic, eclectic and compassionate. Anna will gently support you to uncover unresolved feelings and issues that keep you stuck, repeating negative patterns, which can cause issues such as anxiety, depression, co-dependence, chronic worry, anger, perfectionism, eating disorders, hopelessness, difficult relationships, low self esteem, loneliness, disease and addiction. Anna has extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families.
Anna has extensive knowledge, experience and expertise in the area of mental health, trauma, relationships, neurodiversity and addiction. Anna’s approach to therapy is psychodynamic, holistic, eclectic and compassionate. Anna will gently support you to uncover unresolved feelings and issues that keep you stuck, repeating negative patterns, which can cause issues such as anxiety, depression, co-dependence, chronic worry, anger, perfectionism, eating disorders, hopelessness, difficult relationships, low self esteem, loneliness, disease and addiction. Anna has extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families.
Life rarely follows a straight line. It can be overwhelming, messy and empty. Sometimes we just feel stuck, not knowing what to do. The ways we try to cope - like cutting off from things or people we value - often make us feel more sad or worried. I work with young people, adults and families to develop new perspectives, learn strategies to cope and build meaningful lives.
Life rarely follows a straight line. It can be overwhelming, messy and empty. Sometimes we just feel stuck, not knowing what to do. The ways we try to cope - like cutting off from things or people we value - often make us feel more sad or worried. I work with young people, adults and families to develop new perspectives, learn strategies to cope and build meaningful lives.
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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.