Autism Counselling in Wollongong, NSW

Photo of Emily Lewis - Emily Lewis - Neuro-affirming Psychologist, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Emily Lewis - Neuro-affirming Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Many of the clients I work with come to me wanting to explore their own neurotype after self-identification, or after a recent diagnosis of Autism or ADHD (or both).
Hello! I’m Emily Lewis, an online wellbeing psychologist and neurodivergent coach who supports Autistic, ADHD and AuDHD women reconnect with their authentic nature and create lives that feel more aligned, meaningful, and nourishing. I offer a neuro-affirming, strengths-based approach that respects each person’s unique neurobiology and lived experience. My practice, Vibrant Living, is a nurturing space for self-discovery and transformation — a place to gently explore what truly matters to you and to begin shaping a life that honours your values, wellbeing needs, and unique ways of being in the world.
Many of the clients I work with come to me wanting to explore their own neurotype after self-identification, or after a recent diagnosis of Autism or ADHD (or both).
Hello! I’m Emily Lewis, an online wellbeing psychologist and neurodivergent coach who supports Autistic, ADHD and AuDHD women reconnect with their authentic nature and create lives that feel more aligned, meaningful, and nourishing. I offer a neuro-affirming, strengths-based approach that respects each person’s unique neurobiology and lived experience. My practice, Vibrant Living, is a nurturing space for self-discovery and transformation — a place to gently explore what truly matters to you and to begin shaping a life that honours your values, wellbeing needs, and unique ways of being in the world.
(02) 4210 5693 View (02) 4210 5693
Photo of Anita S, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Anita S
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Anita’s specific interests include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma and PTSD, life transitions and adjustment difficulties, eating and body image concerns, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Anita's therapeutic approach is client-centred and prioritises the development of an empathic, consistent, collaborative, and responsive therapeutic relationship. She offers an integrative approach to therapy,
Anita’s specific interests include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma and PTSD, life transitions and adjustment difficulties, eating and body image concerns, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Anita's therapeutic approach is client-centred and prioritises the development of an empathic, consistent, collaborative, and responsive therapeutic relationship. She offers an integrative approach to therapy,
(02) 8105 6470 View (02) 8105 6470
Photo of Olivia Hawkins - Olivia Hawkins Psychology , Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Olivia Hawkins Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
You might be experiencing anxiety or depression, seeking ways to manage ADHD or autism, or working through trauma and PTSD.
Using evidence-based approaches, we offer individual and couples therapy, specialised child and adolescent counselling, and play therapy incorporating art, sand tray, and AutPlay techniques. Our approach creates a safe space where children and adults can develop resilience, enhance communication skills, build self-worth, and improve emotional regulation.
You might be experiencing anxiety or depression, seeking ways to manage ADHD or autism, or working through trauma and PTSD.
Using evidence-based approaches, we offer individual and couples therapy, specialised child and adolescent counselling, and play therapy incorporating art, sand tray, and AutPlay techniques. Our approach creates a safe space where children and adults can develop resilience, enhance communication skills, build self-worth, and improve emotional regulation.
(02) 4214 4120 View (02) 4214 4120
Photo of Tiarna Cunial, Art Therapist
Tiarna Cunial
Art Therapist
Serves Area
My bread and butter is autism, adhd, trauma and psychosocial disability.
My main focus is autism and psychosocial disability, I offer a trauma informed, aba free therapy environment, I practice with a person centered approach, I am trained in dbt, cbt, act and solutions focused therapy as well as more traditional art therapy which is much more free form. My studio offers traditional art supplies as well as high tech ones
My bread and butter is autism, adhd, trauma and psychosocial disability.
My main focus is autism and psychosocial disability, I offer a trauma informed, aba free therapy environment, I practice with a person centered approach, I am trained in dbt, cbt, act and solutions focused therapy as well as more traditional art therapy which is much more free form. My studio offers traditional art supplies as well as high tech ones
(02) 4208 0649 View (02) 4208 0649
Photo of Tyla Stroebel, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA Prov
Tyla Stroebel
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA Prov
Serves Area
I currently offer comprehensive diagnostic, cognitive, learning, and behavioural assessments across a range of areas including: Autism (including PDA profiles) ADHD Global Developmental Delay Specific Learning Differences (like Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Dyscalculia) Anxiety and emotional regulation differences Neuropsych & Career Assessments
I’m Tyla — a psychologist with lived experience and a passion for helping people understand the way their unique brain works. I focus on neurodiversity-affirming assessments and support for children, teens, and adults, both in person and online. I have a special interest in supporting ADHD and Autistic women and girls, and I love walking alongside adults who are beginning to explore their neurotype later in life. My approach is strengths-based, collaborative, and respectful of each individual’s lived experience, including the ways we mask, cope, and thrive in a world that often wasn’t designed for neurodivergent minds.
I currently offer comprehensive diagnostic, cognitive, learning, and behavioural assessments across a range of areas including: Autism (including PDA profiles) ADHD Global Developmental Delay Specific Learning Differences (like Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Dyscalculia) Anxiety and emotional regulation differences Neuropsych & Career Assessments
I’m Tyla — a psychologist with lived experience and a passion for helping people understand the way their unique brain works. I focus on neurodiversity-affirming assessments and support for children, teens, and adults, both in person and online. I have a special interest in supporting ADHD and Autistic women and girls, and I love walking alongside adults who are beginning to explore their neurotype later in life. My approach is strengths-based, collaborative, and respectful of each individual’s lived experience, including the ways we mask, cope, and thrive in a world that often wasn’t designed for neurodivergent minds.
(02) 8105 6892 View (02) 8105 6892
Photo of Rachel Mintoff - The AuDHD Social Worker - ADHD and Autism Support, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
The AuDHD Social Worker - ADHD and Autism Support
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I understand how isolating and overwhelming it can feel to navigate life after a late-in-life ADHD, Autism, or AuDHD diagnosis.
If this sounds familiar, you’re in the right place. After experiencing similar challenges, I created The AuDHD Social Worker to provide tailored support for neurodivergent individuals. I specialise in neuroaffirming coaching and counselling, blending therapeutic and practical approaches to meet your unique needs.
I understand how isolating and overwhelming it can feel to navigate life after a late-in-life ADHD, Autism, or AuDHD diagnosis.
If this sounds familiar, you’re in the right place. After experiencing similar challenges, I created The AuDHD Social Worker to provide tailored support for neurodivergent individuals. I specialise in neuroaffirming coaching and counselling, blending therapeutic and practical approaches to meet your unique needs.
(02) 4214 4531 View (02) 4214 4531
Photo of Nivi (Nivedita) Malik, Psychologist, MA
Nivi (Nivedita) Malik
Psychologist, MA
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
*Post and perinatal depression *Neurodevelopmental Disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD *Cognitive Assessments: including WISC-V, WPPSI- IV, and *Parenting Skills Training for behavioural management of children and adolescents with challenging behaviours.
In my interventions, I draw upon a range of therapeutic approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Emotion Focused Therapy and Schema Based Therapy.
*Post and perinatal depression *Neurodevelopmental Disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD *Cognitive Assessments: including WISC-V, WPPSI- IV, and *Parenting Skills Training for behavioural management of children and adolescents with challenging behaviours.
In my interventions, I draw upon a range of therapeutic approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Emotion Focused Therapy and Schema Based Therapy.
(02) 4607 2716 View (02) 4607 2716
Photo of Mirelda Vanessa Wales - PSYCA Psychological Counselling and Assessments, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
PSYCA Psychological Counselling and Assessments
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Wollongong, NSW 2500
We also provide assessments, such as cognitive (IQ) testing, learning difficulties (dyslexia), ADHD, Autism, and ODD.
We have immediate availability.
We also provide assessments, such as cognitive (IQ) testing, learning difficulties (dyslexia), ADHD, Autism, and ODD.
We have immediate availability.
(02) 4214 4602 View (02) 4214 4602
Photo of Klaudia Gebert - Self Reflections, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Self Reflections
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Wollongong, NSW 2500
In addition to individual therapeutic and dietetic services, we provide Assessments (Cognitive IQ, Functional Behavioural and Autism Assessments), Family and Couples Therapy, Supervision and through our Online Services groups, programs as well as Coaching.
Using a warm and caring approach clinicians at Self Reflections help individuals develop greater self-awareness and constructive strategies for managing and dealing with emotional problems and difficulties, mental and physical health as well as wellbeing.
In addition to individual therapeutic and dietetic services, we provide Assessments (Cognitive IQ, Functional Behavioural and Autism Assessments), Family and Couples Therapy, Supervision and through our Online Services groups, programs as well as Coaching.
Using a warm and caring approach clinicians at Self Reflections help individuals develop greater self-awareness and constructive strategies for managing and dealing with emotional problems and difficulties, mental and physical health as well as wellbeing.
(02) 4210 5182 View (02) 4210 5182
Photo of Lynette Fane De Salis - Direct Focus Solutions, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Direct Focus Solutions
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Wollongong, NSW 2500
We can also provide assessments and screening for a wide range of conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder and ADD/ADHD.
Direct Focus Solutions (DFS) proudly works with clients of all ages and abilities to support them across their lifespans. Our multidisciplinary team of allied health practitioners is able to deliver individually-tailored services for clients who approach us to receive psychology, counselling, occupational therapy, speech pathology, social work, support work, and much more. In addition to private clients, DFS is an NDIS registered provider and is also able to fully support NDIS participants in addition to clients requiring services under Medicare, Victims Services, the DVA, and many other streams.
We can also provide assessments and screening for a wide range of conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder and ADD/ADHD.
Direct Focus Solutions (DFS) proudly works with clients of all ages and abilities to support them across their lifespans. Our multidisciplinary team of allied health practitioners is able to deliver individually-tailored services for clients who approach us to receive psychology, counselling, occupational therapy, speech pathology, social work, support work, and much more. In addition to private clients, DFS is an NDIS registered provider and is also able to fully support NDIS participants in addition to clients requiring services under Medicare, Victims Services, the DVA, and many other streams.
1300 197 949 x1 View 1300 197 949 x1
Photo of Sara Oldfield, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sara Oldfield
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
She specialises in neuro-affirming support ( Autism, ADHD) as well as helping individuals to manage mood difficulties, anxiety, stress, trauma, and life transitions.
Medicare, WorkCover and NDIS support! Sara is a compassionate Registered Psychologist with more than 15 years of experience. Committed to providing high-quality care, she has returned to university several times and is currently a Clinical Psychology Registrar. 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) as well as helping individuals to manage mood difficulties, anxiety, stress, trauma, and life transitions.
Medicare, WorkCover and NDIS support! Sara is a compassionate Registered Psychologist with more than 15 years of experience. Committed to providing high-quality care, she has returned to university several times and is currently a Clinical Psychology Registrar. 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 Christina Perez, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Christina Perez
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I also work with those who are exploring their unique neurodiverse identity and are seeking a diagnosis for Autism and ADHD.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience. I provide therapy for adults and older adults and provide treatment across a range of presenting difficulties, such as relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties and other complex mental health conditions. I provide both individual therapy and couples therapy, and am a Level 2 Gottman Certified Therapist. I’m also a Board-Certified Supervisor and provide supervision for interns looking to complete their training.
I also work with those who are exploring their unique neurodiverse identity and are seeking a diagnosis for Autism and ADHD.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience. I provide therapy for adults and older adults and provide treatment across a range of presenting difficulties, such as relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties and other complex mental health conditions. I provide both individual therapy and couples therapy, and am a Level 2 Gottman Certified Therapist. I’m also a Board-Certified Supervisor and provide supervision for interns looking to complete their training.
(02) 4210 5870 View (02) 4210 5870
Photo of Bec Fung - Balance with Bec, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Balance with Bec
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialise in; Women's Anxiety & Depression, Neurodivergent-affirming Practices (i.e. for ADHD & Autism), Cultural & Identity Experiences and, navigating Professionalism and the Person.
I specialise in supporting women, neurodivergent-affirming practices and those navigating cultural & identity experiences.
I specialise in; Women's Anxiety & Depression, Neurodivergent-affirming Practices (i.e. for ADHD & Autism), Cultural & Identity Experiences and, navigating Professionalism and the Person.
I specialise in supporting women, neurodivergent-affirming practices and those navigating cultural & identity experiences.
(03) 6364 0106 View (03) 6364 0106
Photo of Dr Melody Tan, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Melody Tan
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I also conduct comprehensive Autism and ADHD assessments.
Taking the first step to reach out for support can feel like a big leap and I want you to know that you're not alone in this. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all experience. We are all unique, and my goal is to work alongside you to create a treatment plan that is as individual as you are. Together, we will explore your struggles, discover your strengths, and find practical ways to improve your wellbeing. I take a warm, compassionate approach to therapy, creating a space where you feel heard, supported, and ready to take on new challenges with confidence.
I also conduct comprehensive Autism and ADHD assessments.
Taking the first step to reach out for support can feel like a big leap and I want you to know that you're not alone in this. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all experience. We are all unique, and my goal is to work alongside you to create a treatment plan that is as individual as you are. Together, we will explore your struggles, discover your strengths, and find practical ways to improve your wellbeing. I take a warm, compassionate approach to therapy, creating a space where you feel heard, supported, and ready to take on new challenges with confidence.
(02) 4214 8202 View (02) 4214 8202
Photo of Jasmin Abbott, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jasmin Abbott
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I also offer Virtual Reality therapy which many clients find engaging and is very effecting in building skills in people on the Autism Spectrum.
I am a NESA accredited proficient teacher and a Registered Psychologist with AHPRA. I’ve spent years as a school counsellor supporting students of all ages, equipping me with an in-depth understanding of the challenges young people face across developmental stages.
I also offer Virtual Reality therapy which many clients find engaging and is very effecting in building skills in people on the Autism Spectrum.
I am a NESA accredited proficient teacher and a Registered Psychologist with AHPRA. I’ve spent years as a school counsellor supporting students of all ages, equipping me with an in-depth understanding of the challenges young people face across developmental stages.
(02) 4404 4622 View (02) 4404 4622
Photo of Tania Rose, Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Tania Rose
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Psychotherapist Tania Rose draws from 30+ years of experience providing support for Autistic and ADHD adults through a neurodiversity-affirming and queer-affirming lived-experience lens, Australia-wide via Zoom. Clients may self-identify or have a diagnosis and wish to build personal capacity and supportive relationships. Tania also supports adults living with Tourettes & Down Syndrome focusing on the unique experience of each individual. Supporting individuals and relationships, queer, neurodivergent, and differently-abled clients. Ethical Non-Monogamous (ENM), Relationship Anarchy (RA), and unique relationship styles welcome.
Psychotherapist Tania Rose draws from 30+ years of experience providing support for Autistic and ADHD adults through a neurodiversity-affirming and queer-affirming lived-experience lens, Australia-wide via Zoom. Clients may self-identify or have a diagnosis and wish to build personal capacity and supportive relationships. Tania also supports adults living with Tourettes & Down Syndrome focusing on the unique experience of each individual. Supporting individuals and relationships, queer, neurodivergent, and differently-abled clients. Ethical Non-Monogamous (ENM), Relationship Anarchy (RA), and unique relationship styles welcome.
(02) 4708 9622 View (02) 4708 9622
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 Kirsten Campbell, Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Kirsten Campbell
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Serves Area
Colour outside the lines with Art Therapy! Expressing yourself with just words can sometimes be tough. Art therapy offers you a safe and creative space to visualise your inner world rather than just talking about it. As an art psychotherapist, I am here to help you explore and share your feelings using creative materials in a warm and supportive environment. Together, we work to understand and embrace emotions that might feel too overwhelming to talk about, while finding ways to manage them and take charge of your life.
Colour outside the lines with Art Therapy! Expressing yourself with just words can sometimes be tough. Art therapy offers you a safe and creative space to visualise your inner world rather than just talking about it. As an art psychotherapist, I am here to help you explore and share your feelings using creative materials in a warm and supportive environment. Together, we work to understand and embrace emotions that might feel too overwhelming to talk about, while finding ways to manage them and take charge of your life.
(02) 4210 5469 View (02) 4210 5469
Photo of Elizabeth Anne O'Neill, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Elizabeth Anne O'Neill
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Online Only
I provide evidence-based, individualized & holistic counselling for managing issues & diagnosis. I offer a wide range of coping skills for many mental health conditions (ie. anxiety, depression & Post Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD). I provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD. I offer Schema Therapy. I work with identity issues, grief, gender issues, work stress & relationship stress. I explore individual concerns respectfully & practically for recovery from mental health & issues of distress. I have +20yrs exp. Video sessions available. Also supervision provided.
I provide evidence-based, individualized & holistic counselling for managing issues & diagnosis. I offer a wide range of coping skills for many mental health conditions (ie. anxiety, depression & Post Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD). I provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for PTSD. I offer Schema Therapy. I work with identity issues, grief, gender issues, work stress & relationship stress. I explore individual concerns respectfully & practically for recovery from mental health & issues of distress. I have +20yrs exp. Video sessions available. Also supervision provided.
(02) 4210 5101 View (02) 4210 5101
Photo of Karen Towers, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Karen Towers
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Wollongong, NSW 2500
Towers Counselling is a creative & personal service which now specialises with children aged 4 to 13. I have over 30 years of experience with children and teenagers as a teacher. I am a clinical level counsellor & psychotherapist with 15 years of experience with clients from vulnerable backgrounds. I currently work in private practice. Children under the NDIS scheme who are self and plan-managed are able to access sessions. I am also an approved counsellor with Victims Services. Counselling for 22 hours or more can be applied for without a gap fee.
Towers Counselling is a creative & personal service which now specialises with children aged 4 to 13. I have over 30 years of experience with children and teenagers as a teacher. I am a clinical level counsellor & psychotherapist with 15 years of experience with clients from vulnerable backgrounds. I currently work in private practice. Children under the NDIS scheme who are self and plan-managed are able to access sessions. I am also an approved counsellor with Victims Services. Counselling for 22 hours or more can be applied for without a gap fee.
(02) 6189 2981 View (02) 6189 2981

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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.