Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Westmead, NSW

Photo of Ashleigh Dina Dakkache, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Ashleigh Dina Dakkache
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ashleigh is a warm and compassionate psychologist who supports individuals navigating a variety of concerns, with a special interest in complex life transitions, including cancer, chronic illness, grief, and late diagnosis ADHD/ ASD.
Ashleigh works with adolescents, young adults and adults across a variety of concerns, including anxiety and mood disorders. She brings particular experience supporting individuals navigating adjustment to diagnosis, health anxiety, identity shifts, end of life care, survivorship and the emotional impact of health-related challenges.
Ashleigh is a warm and compassionate psychologist who supports individuals navigating a variety of concerns, with a special interest in complex life transitions, including cancer, chronic illness, grief, and late diagnosis ADHD/ ASD.
Ashleigh works with adolescents, young adults and adults across a variety of concerns, including anxiety and mood disorders. She brings particular experience supporting individuals navigating adjustment to diagnosis, health anxiety, identity shifts, end of life care, survivorship and the emotional impact of health-related challenges.
(02) 7804 4990 View (02) 7804 4990
Photo of Salome Emmanuel, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Salome Emmanuel
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Salome, and I am a registered psychologist, who has a strong desire to help people achieve their mental health goals. Often, our past traumas can have a significant impact on the way we experience the world around us. Without proper support, we may have developed unhealthy coping mechanisms in our search for comfort and peace. These unresolved issues can lead to a range of psycho-social problems, including anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflicts, and negative self-perception. However, facing these complex and overwhelming emotions can be a daunting task to undertake on our own.
Hello! My name is Salome, and I am a registered psychologist, who has a strong desire to help people achieve their mental health goals. Often, our past traumas can have a significant impact on the way we experience the world around us. Without proper support, we may have developed unhealthy coping mechanisms in our search for comfort and peace. These unresolved issues can lead to a range of psycho-social problems, including anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflicts, and negative self-perception. However, facing these complex and overwhelming emotions can be a daunting task to undertake on our own.
(02) 8000 1284 View (02) 8000 1284
Photo of Krutika M, Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Krutika M
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can sometimes feel confusing and overwhelming, leaving us unsure of where to go next or what to do. In those moments, the sense of being stuck can be unsettling, making us question everything. Our thoughts, feelings, and actions may feel unclear. Yet, there's a part of us that yearns to grow—a curious part that seeks to learn and evolve through these experiences. This part wants to develop emotional resilience, embrace uncertainty, and foster greater self-awareness. Ultimately, it's the part that strives to become the most authentic and reliable version of ourselves.
Life can sometimes feel confusing and overwhelming, leaving us unsure of where to go next or what to do. In those moments, the sense of being stuck can be unsettling, making us question everything. Our thoughts, feelings, and actions may feel unclear. Yet, there's a part of us that yearns to grow—a curious part that seeks to learn and evolve through these experiences. This part wants to develop emotional resilience, embrace uncertainty, and foster greater self-awareness. Ultimately, it's the part that strives to become the most authentic and reliable version of ourselves.
(02) 9158 6366 View (02) 9158 6366
Photo of Nila Abbasyan, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Nila Abbasyan
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, I provide therapy for individuals aged 18 and over as well as families, supporting clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I can see clients under the following arrangements: Mental Health Care Plans (with Medicare rebates) Victim Services Counselling (NSW Victims Support Scheme) Workers Compensation / WorkCover CTP (Compulsory Third Party) Insurance Private fee-for-service
As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, I provide therapy for individuals aged 18 and over as well as families, supporting clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I can see clients under the following arrangements: Mental Health Care Plans (with Medicare rebates) Victim Services Counselling (NSW Victims Support Scheme) Workers Compensation / WorkCover CTP (Compulsory Third Party) Insurance Private fee-for-service
(02) 7804 4117 View (02) 7804 4117
Photo of Gissia Castelnoble, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Gissia Castelnoble
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Serves Area
I am an educational and developmental psychologist with a particular interest in childhood, adolescent, and adult mental health, resilience building, and positive well-being. I practise from my clinic and provide specialised support to clients of all ages, empowering them to work through and achieve their treatment goals in a caring and safe environment.
I am an educational and developmental psychologist with a particular interest in childhood, adolescent, and adult mental health, resilience building, and positive well-being. I practise from my clinic and provide specialised support to clients of all ages, empowering them to work through and achieve their treatment goals in a caring and safe environment.
(02) 7804 4890 View (02) 7804 4890
Photo of Priscilla Chee, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Priscilla Chee
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist deeply passionate about helping clients build skills to live healthy and meaningful lives. As every individual has different experiences and needs, I employ evidence-based treatments tailored to align with your personal requirements. I am trained in EMDR, IFS, CBT, ACT and DBT. I have experience working with individuals of all ages with mild to severe mental health concerns. My goal is to guide and work alongside your therapeutic journey to personal improvement and psychological wellbeing.
I am a Clinical Psychologist deeply passionate about helping clients build skills to live healthy and meaningful lives. As every individual has different experiences and needs, I employ evidence-based treatments tailored to align with your personal requirements. I am trained in EMDR, IFS, CBT, ACT and DBT. I have experience working with individuals of all ages with mild to severe mental health concerns. My goal is to guide and work alongside your therapeutic journey to personal improvement and psychological wellbeing.
(02) 7804 4168 View (02) 7804 4168
Photo of Lydia Ghaly, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Lydia Ghaly
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Lydia Ghaly is a psychologist with a special interest in relationship difficulties, low self-worth, and challenges with communication. Lydia also has experience working with children, collaborating with parents and teachers to support social and emotional development. She conducts cognitive, academic, and ADHD assessments for children and adults, providing clear diagnoses and tailored recommendations.
Lydia Ghaly is a psychologist with a special interest in relationship difficulties, low self-worth, and challenges with communication. Lydia also has experience working with children, collaborating with parents and teachers to support social and emotional development. She conducts cognitive, academic, and ADHD assessments for children and adults, providing clear diagnoses and tailored recommendations.
(02) 7804 4922 View (02) 7804 4922
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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More Therapists Nearby

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 Wendy Robertson - Wendy Robertson- Medicare Bulk Billing - NDIS, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Wendy Robertson- Medicare Bulk Billing - NDIS
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Wendy Robertson and I am a Clinical Psychologist offering NDIS and fully Medicare bulk billed sessions to eligible adult clients Australia-wide via telehealth and bulk billed, private and NDIS adult and child client sessions face to face in my offices on the Sunshine Coast. I provide assessment and treatment for mental health concerns in adults and children such as depression, anxiety, and adjustment difficulties using evidence-based treatments including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and self-compassion and mindfulness therapies.
Hi, I'm Wendy Robertson and I am a Clinical Psychologist offering NDIS and fully Medicare bulk billed sessions to eligible adult clients Australia-wide via telehealth and bulk billed, private and NDIS adult and child client sessions face to face in my offices on the Sunshine Coast. I provide assessment and treatment for mental health concerns in adults and children such as depression, anxiety, and adjustment difficulties using evidence-based treatments including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and self-compassion and mindfulness therapies.
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Photo of Bronwen Whistance, Counsellor, PACFA
Bronwen Whistance
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I want to provide an online counselling service for adults who are newly identified as Neurodivergent.
I have been working as a counsellor for 10 years, with youth and adults in Alcohol and other Drugs in prison and in the community, and Forensic Mental Health with NGO’S and Community Health organisations. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a background in Philosophy, a Horticulturist, and a keen sense of wonder.
I want to provide an online counselling service for adults who are newly identified as Neurodivergent.
I have been working as a counsellor for 10 years, with youth and adults in Alcohol and other Drugs in prison and in the community, and Forensic Mental Health with NGO’S and Community Health organisations. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a background in Philosophy, a Horticulturist, and a keen sense of wonder.
(03) 4328 0332 View (03) 4328 0332
Photo of Penny Williams, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Penny Williams
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I particularly value supporting individuals who identify as neurodivergent or experience life in a unique manner.
I have completed a Master of Gestalt Therapy and hold a Diploma of Holistic Counselling. I continue to grow my skills and experience with a focus on Nature Based and Canine Assisted therapy. I have over 20 years experience in the not-for-profit sector. I offer sessions within a practice, outdoors in nature and online.
I particularly value supporting individuals who identify as neurodivergent or experience life in a unique manner.
I have completed a Master of Gestalt Therapy and hold a Diploma of Holistic Counselling. I continue to grow my skills and experience with a focus on Nature Based and Canine Assisted therapy. I have over 20 years experience in the not-for-profit sector. I offer sessions within a practice, outdoors in nature and online.
(07) 2100 4364 View (07) 2100 4364
Photo of Kelly Penniment-Saich - Minds of Colour Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Minds of Colour Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I provide neuroaffirming and gender-affirming psychological care for autistic and ADHD adults and for trans and gender diverse people.
I provide therapy as well as psychological assessments for ADHD, autism and access to gender-affirming medical care. My approach draws on evidence-based frameworks including minority stress, identity-affirming and compassion-focused approaches, and is adapted to each person’s neurotype, strengths, goals and broader life context.
I provide neuroaffirming and gender-affirming psychological care for autistic and ADHD adults and for trans and gender diverse people.
I provide therapy as well as psychological assessments for ADHD, autism and access to gender-affirming medical care. My approach draws on evidence-based frameworks including minority stress, identity-affirming and compassion-focused approaches, and is adapted to each person’s neurotype, strengths, goals and broader life context.
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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.
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Photo of Paige Turner, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Paige Turner
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Newtown, NSW 2042
Hi, I’m Paige (she/her), a registered psychologist and proud trans woman dedicated to supporting individuals across diverse identities, relationships, and life experiences. I bring both professional expertise and lived experience into my work, offering an affirming, deeply informed perspective that recognises the impact of identity, community, and systemic factors on mental health. I am committed to providing inclusive, non-judgmental, and client-centred care that supports individuals to feel safe, seen, and understood.
Hi, I’m Paige (she/her), a registered psychologist and proud trans woman dedicated to supporting individuals across diverse identities, relationships, and life experiences. I bring both professional expertise and lived experience into my work, offering an affirming, deeply informed perspective that recognises the impact of identity, community, and systemic factors on mental health. I am committed to providing inclusive, non-judgmental, and client-centred care that supports individuals to feel safe, seen, and understood.
(02) 9420 3143 View (02) 9420 3143
Photo of Dayle Johnson - Calm Minds Clinic, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Calm Minds Clinic
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Online Only
Welcome to Calm Minds Clinic, where your wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. Our clinicians have a vast amount of experience in treating a range of concerns, whether it be: depression, anxiety, personality, trauma, drug and alcohol or relationship issues that you're facing, we wish to support you in being a happier, healthier, you.
Welcome to Calm Minds Clinic, where your wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. Our clinicians have a vast amount of experience in treating a range of concerns, whether it be: depression, anxiety, personality, trauma, drug and alcohol or relationship issues that you're facing, we wish to support you in being a happier, healthier, you.
(03) 4233 6470 View (03) 4233 6470
Photo of Tim Sanderson, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Tim Sanderson
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Online Only
I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your unique journey with ADHD &/or Adult ASD.
1. Welcome to a practice that validates your lived ADHD journey. My primary focus is on the assessment and diagnosis of ADHD & counselling If required, I also provide a report for medical diagnosis. I strictly adhere to the Australian Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) 2022.
I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your unique journey with ADHD &/or Adult ASD.
1. Welcome to a practice that validates your lived ADHD journey. My primary focus is on the assessment and diagnosis of ADHD & counselling If required, I also provide a report for medical diagnosis. I strictly adhere to the Australian Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) 2022.
(08) 6202 9315 View (08) 6202 9315
Photo of Arzu Aksu Chapman, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Arzu Aksu Chapman
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
My ideal client navigates the intricate landscape of neurodivergence—be it ADHD, Autism, or related experiences.
Tailored strategies for ADHD and Autism empower individuals, while couples benefit from a nuanced understanding of neurodivergent dynamics and LGBTQ+ relationship nuances. I offer a therapeutic haven where your uniqueness is not only acknowledged but celebrated, fostering resilience and authentic connection.
My ideal client navigates the intricate landscape of neurodivergence—be it ADHD, Autism, or related experiences.
Tailored strategies for ADHD and Autism empower individuals, while couples benefit from a nuanced understanding of neurodivergent dynamics and LGBTQ+ relationship nuances. I offer a therapeutic haven where your uniqueness is not only acknowledged but celebrated, fostering resilience and authentic connection.
(02) 8403 1928 View (02) 8403 1928
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 Karen Barnes, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Karen Barnes
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Due to lived experience, I also have a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals and those impacted by complex trauma (CPTSD).
I offer neuro-affirming, trauma-informed therapy as well as adult ADHD/ autism assessments. My approach is strengths-based, evidence-informed, and practical, with a focus on self-understanding, emotional regulation, and strategies you can use in everyday life. Sessions are collaborative and paced to your needs and goals.
Due to lived experience, I also have a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals and those impacted by complex trauma (CPTSD).
I offer neuro-affirming, trauma-informed therapy as well as adult ADHD/ autism assessments. My approach is strengths-based, evidence-informed, and practical, with a focus on self-understanding, emotional regulation, and strategies you can use in everyday life. Sessions are collaborative and paced to your needs and goals.
0417 638 763 View 0417 638 763
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.