Autism Psychologists and Therapists in St Leonards

Photo of Gemma Illescas - Gemma | Sport & ADHD Psychologist , Psychologist, PsyBA General
Gemma | Sport & ADHD Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyBA General
St Leonards, NSW 2065
I also support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, autism, intellectual disability and behavioural challenges -always through a trauma-informed lens.
Sport & ADHD Psychology with practical tools for focus, growth and wellbeing. Whether you are an athlete or an ADHD brain, we help you train your mind like you train your body. We work with you to understand how your brain works, so you can manage emotions, stay focused and shop up at your best -day to day, and on and off the field.
I also support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, autism, intellectual disability and behavioural challenges -always through a trauma-informed lens.
Sport & ADHD Psychology with practical tools for focus, growth and wellbeing. Whether you are an athlete or an ADHD brain, we help you train your mind like you train your body. We work with you to understand how your brain works, so you can manage emotions, stay focused and shop up at your best -day to day, and on and off the field.
(02) 9158 6576 View (02) 9158 6576
Photo of Dr Pauline Hall, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Pauline Hall
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
St Leonards, NSW 2065
Presentations commonly include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism and ADHD, often in the context of workplace or significant life stressors.
I provide psychological assessment, evidence-based treatment, and medico-legal reporting for adults with trauma, psychological injury, and complex mental health conditions. My expertise includes PTSD, workplace stress, mood and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and Autism/ADHD, supporting recovery, functional capacity, and clear clinical opinions.
Presentations commonly include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism and ADHD, often in the context of workplace or significant life stressors.
I provide psychological assessment, evidence-based treatment, and medico-legal reporting for adults with trauma, psychological injury, and complex mental health conditions. My expertise includes PTSD, workplace stress, mood and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and Autism/ADHD, supporting recovery, functional capacity, and clear clinical opinions.
(02) 9411 7837 View (02) 9411 7837
Photo of Sharon Frances Cashel - WiseMind Clininical Psychology- Sharon , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
WiseMind Clininical Psychology- Sharon
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
St Leonards, NSW 2065
My clients often come to me experiencing a wide range of challenges—such as mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma and PTSD, personality disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, self-esteem, self-harm, grief, and family/parenting issues.
My approach is grounded in evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness, and trauma-focused interventions. I draw on my extensive experience working in private practice, schools, and hospital settings to ensure that your treatment is tailored to your needs.
My clients often come to me experiencing a wide range of challenges—such as mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma and PTSD, personality disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, self-esteem, self-harm, grief, and family/parenting issues.
My approach is grounded in evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness, and trauma-focused interventions. I draw on my extensive experience working in private practice, schools, and hospital settings to ensure that your treatment is tailored to your needs.
0404 309 108 View 0404 309 108
Photo of Jessica McGinty, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Jessica McGinty
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
St Leonards, NSW 2065
Jessica is a Registered Psychologist, Clinical Neuropsychologist, and Board Approved Supervisor registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. She offers neuropsychological assessments, psychological therapy, and interventions for cognitive complaints such as memory, attention, concentration, and executive functioning. Jess maintains a strong focus on accurate diagnosis to ensure clients, carers, and families can access appropriate supports and interventions as quickly as possible.
Jessica is a Registered Psychologist, Clinical Neuropsychologist, and Board Approved Supervisor registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. She offers neuropsychological assessments, psychological therapy, and interventions for cognitive complaints such as memory, attention, concentration, and executive functioning. Jess maintains a strong focus on accurate diagnosis to ensure clients, carers, and families can access appropriate supports and interventions as quickly as possible.
(02) 8000 1070 View (02) 8000 1070
Photo of Melanie Khashadorian - My Appletree, Psychologist, MA
My Appletree
Psychologist, MA
St Leonards, NSW 2065
We are a group of therapists who see relationships to be an essential part of a healthy life. Be this with your romantic partner, your child, your siblings or parents or even your friends and colleagues. We work with individuals, couples and children in a compassionate, culturally aware, neuro-affirming approach.
We are a group of therapists who see relationships to be an essential part of a healthy life. Be this with your romantic partner, your child, your siblings or parents or even your friends and colleagues. We work with individuals, couples and children in a compassionate, culturally aware, neuro-affirming approach.
(02) 8000 1430 View (02) 8000 1430
Photo of Jane Turner, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jane Turner
Psychologist, PsyBA General
St Leonards, NSW 2065
I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties and substance use, often alongside ADHD, autism, or the layered experience of navigating identity.
I have worked in different settings such as a residential rehab, psychiatric hospital and an outpatient counselling centre. My approach draws on ACT, DBT, Narrative Therapy and MI. I adapt therapy to how you think and process, not the other way around.
I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties and substance use, often alongside ADHD, autism, or the layered experience of navigating identity.
I have worked in different settings such as a residential rehab, psychiatric hospital and an outpatient counselling centre. My approach draws on ACT, DBT, Narrative Therapy and MI. I adapt therapy to how you think and process, not the other way around.
0479 103 838 View 0479 103 838
Photo of Anthony Lanigan - Sydney North Psychology , Psychologist, PsyBA General
Sydney North Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
St Leonards, NSW 2065
Parents who have noticed their child struggling at school or socially, adults who have long wondered whether they might have ADHD or autism, and families who want clear answers rather than long waitlists.
Sydney North Psychology is a specialist assessment practice on the North Shore. We conduct autism assessments (ADOS-2 and ADI-R), ADHD assessments (Conners 4, CAARS-2, CPT-3), dyslexia and learning assessments, and cognitive and IQ testing (WISC-V and WAIS-5). No waitlist. Reports within days.
Parents who have noticed their child struggling at school or socially, adults who have long wondered whether they might have ADHD or autism, and families who want clear answers rather than long waitlists.
Sydney North Psychology is a specialist assessment practice on the North Shore. We conduct autism assessments (ADOS-2 and ADI-R), ADHD assessments (Conners 4, CAARS-2, CPT-3), dyslexia and learning assessments, and cognitive and IQ testing (WISC-V and WAIS-5). No waitlist. Reports within days.
0435 429 854 View 0435 429 854
Photo of Anna Nicole Schwarz, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Anna Nicole Schwarz
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
St Leonards, NSW 2065
Anna Schwarz and her team are committed to supporting individuals and families in achieving optimal health and well-being. We are here to help you find ways through your challenges and to give you life skills to navigate when difficulties arise. We are here to walk beside you on this journey.
Anna Schwarz and her team are committed to supporting individuals and families in achieving optimal health and well-being. We are here to help you find ways through your challenges and to give you life skills to navigate when difficulties arise. We are here to walk beside you on this journey.
(02) 8000 1697 View (02) 8000 1697
Photo of Leanda Chan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Leanda Chan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
St Leonards, NSW 2065
I also work with individuals navigating neurodivergence (ADHD, ASD), complex family dynamics, cultural adjustment, and major life transitions.
I am a warm and compassionate Registered Psychologist dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy with an approach that is attachment-based. I work collaboratively with clients to explore the underlying patterns that shape current relationships and self-perception, in order to foster meaningful and lasting change.
I also work with individuals navigating neurodivergence (ADHD, ASD), complex family dynamics, cultural adjustment, and major life transitions.
I am a warm and compassionate Registered Psychologist dedicated to providing evidence-based therapy with an approach that is attachment-based. I work collaboratively with clients to explore the underlying patterns that shape current relationships and self-perception, in order to foster meaningful and lasting change.
0406 631 476 View 0406 631 476
Photo of Miranda Shtein, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Miranda Shtein
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
St Leonards, NSW 2065
I also conduct ASD and ADHD assessments.
I have a passion and expertise in ADHD and ASD and use a neuro-affirming approach. In addition to my MPsych I have a Masters in Early Childhood and so bring deep knowledge of development. I use an integration of evidence-based therapies, including CBT, EMDR, ACT, DBT, Play therapy & I collaboratively work with childcare, schools, universities and workplaces.
I also conduct ASD and ADHD assessments.
I have a passion and expertise in ADHD and ASD and use a neuro-affirming approach. In addition to my MPsych I have a Masters in Early Childhood and so bring deep knowledge of development. I use an integration of evidence-based therapies, including CBT, EMDR, ACT, DBT, Play therapy & I collaboratively work with childcare, schools, universities and workplaces.
0421 149 299 View 0421 149 299
Photo of Dean McManus, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dean McManus
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
St Leonards, NSW 2065
I am a Clinical Psychologist offering Gold Coast face-to-face appointments, Australia-wide telehealth, and a monthly Sydney clinic for child/adolescent assessments. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, grief, addiction, relationships, life transitions, workplace stress and WorkCover concerns. I provide ADHD, autism, cognitive, personality and surgical readiness assessments/reports. My approach is direct, respectful, LGBTQIA+ affirming, neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed, with experience supporting first responders.
I am a Clinical Psychologist offering Gold Coast face-to-face appointments, Australia-wide telehealth, and a monthly Sydney clinic for child/adolescent assessments. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, grief, addiction, relationships, life transitions, workplace stress and WorkCover concerns. I provide ADHD, autism, cognitive, personality and surgical readiness assessments/reports. My approach is direct, respectful, LGBTQIA+ affirming, neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed, with experience supporting first responders.
(02) 8000 1025 View (02) 8000 1025
Photo of Sophia Harris, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sophia Harris
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I offer online assessment and support for Autism/ADHD, brain injury, and mental health concerns in ages 12+yrs.
My practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches, with a focus on the connection between brain function, behaviour, and emotional wellbeing. I hold a Master of Clinical Neuropsychology and have worked across private and public health settings, as well as in research and education. This wide experience has helped me to understand different people and problems so that I can better support a diverse range of concerns.
I offer online assessment and support for Autism/ADHD, brain injury, and mental health concerns in ages 12+yrs.
My practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches, with a focus on the connection between brain function, behaviour, and emotional wellbeing. I hold a Master of Clinical Neuropsychology and have worked across private and public health settings, as well as in research and education. This wide experience has helped me to understand different people and problems so that I can better support a diverse range of concerns.
(08) 9930 2037 View (08) 9930 2037
Photo of Theresa (Terry) Williamson, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Theresa (Terry) Williamson
Counsellor, ACA-L2
St Leonards, NSW 2065
0414 843 235 View 0414 843 235

More Therapists Nearby

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 Rhiannon Sandiford, Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Rhiannon Sandiford
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm a registered psychologist with experience across the nonprofit and private sectors. I specialise in the assessment and diagnosis of diverse neurotypes (including autism and ADHD) and psychological conditions, such as personality, obsessive-compulsive, trauma-related, and eating disorders. I have an additional interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy.
I'm a registered psychologist with experience across the nonprofit and private sectors. I specialise in the assessment and diagnosis of diverse neurotypes (including autism and ADHD) and psychological conditions, such as personality, obsessive-compulsive, trauma-related, and eating disorders. I have an additional interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy.
(02) 8776 3161 View (02) 8776 3161
Photo of Laura Jones, Psychotherapist, MC, ACA-L2
Laura Jones
Psychotherapist, MC, ACA-L2
Earlwood, NSW 2206
I have professional and personal experience with Neurodiversity (including ADHD and Autism), Domestic and Family Violence, Trauma & PTSD, Grief and loss, Depression and Suicidal Ideation.
You are the expert in what you are experiencing, and I work with different types of therapies to find what's suitable for you, the issues you are facing and how you would like to address them.
I have professional and personal experience with Neurodiversity (including ADHD and Autism), Domestic and Family Violence, Trauma & PTSD, Grief and loss, Depression and Suicidal Ideation.
You are the expert in what you are experiencing, and I work with different types of therapies to find what's suitable for you, the issues you are facing and how you would like to address them.
(02) 8599 7286 View (02) 8599 7286
Photo of Frossa Mrakas, Social Worker, AMHSW
Frossa Mrakas
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Hi lovely, Have you recently received a diagnosis of ADHD and feeling overwhelmed or perhaps relieved and wanting to talk through where to from here? Working with women with at diagnosis of ADHD later in life is my passion and I am here to help. Have you discovered your ADHD later in life? You're not alone. Many women are only now learning what they've lived with for years. But here's the powerful truth: a late diagnosis doesn’t mean it’s too late to thrive. With professional and lived experience I offer a non judgemental neuro affirming space to help you unlock the many positives and strengths that come with ADHD.
Hi lovely, Have you recently received a diagnosis of ADHD and feeling overwhelmed or perhaps relieved and wanting to talk through where to from here? Working with women with at diagnosis of ADHD later in life is my passion and I am here to help. Have you discovered your ADHD later in life? You're not alone. Many women are only now learning what they've lived with for years. But here's the powerful truth: a late diagnosis doesn’t mean it’s too late to thrive. With professional and lived experience I offer a non judgemental neuro affirming space to help you unlock the many positives and strengths that come with ADHD.
(03) 8771 4297 View (03) 8771 4297
Photo of Malak Shakhtour, Social Worker, AMHSW
Malak Shakhtour
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, NSW 2015
If you're feeling lost, defeated, trying to navigate difficult emotions, I am here to help support you through your next life chapter. I am an accredited mental health social worker with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. It can be incredibly difficult to change ongoing negative patterns of behaviour, I work on increasing your awareness of these behaviours and responses, whilst giving you coping skills to change old patterns. Whether your goal is to learn to cope with difficult emotions, understanding your psyche or looking to get "unstuck", we can work together to improve the next phase of your life.
If you're feeling lost, defeated, trying to navigate difficult emotions, I am here to help support you through your next life chapter. I am an accredited mental health social worker with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. It can be incredibly difficult to change ongoing negative patterns of behaviour, I work on increasing your awareness of these behaviours and responses, whilst giving you coping skills to change old patterns. Whether your goal is to learn to cope with difficult emotions, understanding your psyche or looking to get "unstuck", we can work together to improve the next phase of your life.
View
Photo of Rebecca Rymer - Tranquil Minds Counselling Services, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Tranquil Minds Counselling Services
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
Tranquil Minds is a compassionate space dedicated to nurturing the well-being of children through child centred play-based therapy. Children sometimes struggle to talk about their feelings and understand their emotions. We aim to provide a supportive environment where children can explore, express, and navigate the challenges of growing up. NDIS plan and self managed clients welcome. No waitlist. Book one session or ongoing sessions. Life can be hard, and sometimes you need someone to listen to you. We also provide therapy for adult clients who suffer from Hoarding Disorder, anxiety, OCD and addiction.
Tranquil Minds is a compassionate space dedicated to nurturing the well-being of children through child centred play-based therapy. Children sometimes struggle to talk about their feelings and understand their emotions. We aim to provide a supportive environment where children can explore, express, and navigate the challenges of growing up. NDIS plan and self managed clients welcome. No waitlist. Book one session or ongoing sessions. Life can be hard, and sometimes you need someone to listen to you. We also provide therapy for adult clients who suffer from Hoarding Disorder, anxiety, OCD and addiction.
(02) 5301 6084 View (02) 5301 6084
Photo of Samantha Ruckle - Sam Ruckle - Paper Crane Of Hope, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Sam Ruckle - Paper Crane Of Hope
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
This suits the introvert and neurodivergent person.
You’re the one who’s always been “too sensitive,” “too deep,” or “too much.” You’ve carried everyone else’s emotions while quietly neglecting your own. Now you feel tired, unseen, and ready for change. You want to heal the wounds that keep replaying — the trauma, anxiety, or self-doubt that’s dimmed your light. You crave peace, authenticity, and real connection — not quick fixes, but lasting healing that feels like coming home to yourself. Deep down, you just want to feel safe in your own skin again — calm, grounded, and whole.
This suits the introvert and neurodivergent person.
You’re the one who’s always been “too sensitive,” “too deep,” or “too much.” You’ve carried everyone else’s emotions while quietly neglecting your own. Now you feel tired, unseen, and ready for change. You want to heal the wounds that keep replaying — the trauma, anxiety, or self-doubt that’s dimmed your light. You crave peace, authenticity, and real connection — not quick fixes, but lasting healing that feels like coming home to yourself. Deep down, you just want to feel safe in your own skin again — calm, grounded, and whole.
(07) 5224 2058 View (07) 5224 2058
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.