Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Brighton, VIC

Photo of Nicole Wigney, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Nicole Wigney
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may also be questioning whether autism or ADHD helps explain experiences you’ve struggled to put into words, particularly if you’ve learned to mask or cope quietly.
I’m a Clinical and Educational & Developmental Psychologist with over 8 years’ experience. I offer neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based therapy, including CBT, ACT, ERP for OCD, EMDR, and mindfulness. My key areas of practice include anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, and neurodivergence, particularly internalised & masked presentations of autism/ADHD.
You may also be questioning whether autism or ADHD helps explain experiences you’ve struggled to put into words, particularly if you’ve learned to mask or cope quietly.
I’m a Clinical and Educational & Developmental Psychologist with over 8 years’ experience. I offer neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based therapy, including CBT, ACT, ERP for OCD, EMDR, and mindfulness. My key areas of practice include anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, and neurodivergence, particularly internalised & masked presentations of autism/ADHD.
(03) 9131 8737 View (03) 9131 8737
Photo of Nicola Addlem, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Nicola Addlem
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I work with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorders ( ASD), ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and borderline personality disorder (BPD).
I help clients to manage anxiety, stress and depression. I take a collaborative approach to help you improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and build social connections. I work with children, adolescents and adults and their families. I have experience working in private practice, NDIS, and community psychology.
I work with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorders ( ASD), ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and borderline personality disorder (BPD).
I help clients to manage anxiety, stress and depression. I take a collaborative approach to help you improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and build social connections. I work with children, adolescents and adults and their families. I have experience working in private practice, NDIS, and community psychology.
(03) 7003 2707 View (03) 7003 2707
Photo of Dr Anastasiya Suetin, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Anastasiya Suetin
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I see clients with ADHD, autism, giftedness, learning difficulties, anxiety or mood concerns.
As a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience working in a variety of settings, I am passionate about supporting neurodiversity across the lifespan, with a particular interest in providing high-quality clinical assessments that bring clarity and understanding. Whether working with children, adolescents or adults, I aim to create a safe, respectful space where differences are recognised and celebrated rather than pathologised. I believe that a thoughtful assessment can be a powerful turning point, helping individuals and families better understand strengths, challenges and the pathways forward.
I see clients with ADHD, autism, giftedness, learning difficulties, anxiety or mood concerns.
As a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience working in a variety of settings, I am passionate about supporting neurodiversity across the lifespan, with a particular interest in providing high-quality clinical assessments that bring clarity and understanding. Whether working with children, adolescents or adults, I aim to create a safe, respectful space where differences are recognised and celebrated rather than pathologised. I believe that a thoughtful assessment can be a powerful turning point, helping individuals and families better understand strengths, challenges and the pathways forward.
(03) 8203 5419 View (03) 8203 5419
Photo of Patrick Ruggles, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Patrick Ruggles
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Patrick is an experienced psychotherapist drawing on his studies in both Existential Psychotherapy and Lacanian Psychoanalysis. His approach assists individuals in working through somewhat insoluble issues to bring relief from existential malaise, depression, anxiety, repetitive interpersonal difficulties, and somatic disturbances. Patrick has worked in a multitude of professional settings with adolescents, adults, and couples. Patricks experience has led to a deep appreciation of the complexities of being-in-the-world.
Patrick is an experienced psychotherapist drawing on his studies in both Existential Psychotherapy and Lacanian Psychoanalysis. His approach assists individuals in working through somewhat insoluble issues to bring relief from existential malaise, depression, anxiety, repetitive interpersonal difficulties, and somatic disturbances. Patrick has worked in a multitude of professional settings with adolescents, adults, and couples. Patricks experience has led to a deep appreciation of the complexities of being-in-the-world.
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Photo of Shelley Bernadette Thompson - Psychology Assessment Services, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Psychology Assessment Services
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
Provide an assessment service only to help diagnose ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD), Intellectual Disability, Specific Learning Disorders (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), and identify giftedness.
Shelley Thompson is Owner and Principal Psychologist of Psychology Assessment Services (PAS). She has been a registered psychologist for over 15 years. She has extensive experience working with children and adolescents across a range of settings, including private practice and government, catholic, independent, and specialist schools.
Provide an assessment service only to help diagnose ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD), Intellectual Disability, Specific Learning Disorders (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), and identify giftedness.
Shelley Thompson is Owner and Principal Psychologist of Psychology Assessment Services (PAS). She has been a registered psychologist for over 15 years. She has extensive experience working with children and adolescents across a range of settings, including private practice and government, catholic, independent, and specialist schools.
(03) 5905 9791 View (03) 5905 9791
Photo of Maree Paris, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Maree Paris
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
If you are a parent/carer of a young child with developmental delay, autism, ADHD and/or Intellectual Disability I am able to provide early intervention support.
My services include early intervention, behaviour support and parenting support for children with developmental delay, autism, intellectual disability, ADHD and anxiety. Older children, teenagers and adults looking for support with trauma, PTSD and other related symptoms I am training in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
If you are a parent/carer of a young child with developmental delay, autism, ADHD and/or Intellectual Disability I am able to provide early intervention support.
My services include early intervention, behaviour support and parenting support for children with developmental delay, autism, intellectual disability, ADHD and anxiety. Older children, teenagers and adults looking for support with trauma, PTSD and other related symptoms I am training in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(03) 7003 2903 View (03) 7003 2903
Photo of Alisha Gambhir, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Alisha Gambhir
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Brighton, VIC 3186
Alisha is an engaging and compassionate Psychologist (AHPRA) with over six years of experience supporting young people and adults through a neuro-affirming lens. She takes a person-centric approach that goes beyond standard interventions, focusing instead on advocating for her clients’ unique cognitive profiles and tailoring bespoke strategies that honour how their brains actually work.
Alisha is an engaging and compassionate Psychologist (AHPRA) with over six years of experience supporting young people and adults through a neuro-affirming lens. She takes a person-centric approach that goes beyond standard interventions, focusing instead on advocating for her clients’ unique cognitive profiles and tailoring bespoke strategies that honour how their brains actually work.
0452 400 842 View 0452 400 842
Photo of Francesco Poci - Francesco Poci - People Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Francesco Poci - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Brighton, VIC 3186
Francesco can help with your issues or concerns such as anxiety, depression and phobias. Francesco also has a particular interest working with clients in regard to sexual health concerns. He can help you with workplace concerns, career counselling, life change and existential concerns. In addition to holding a Master of Professional Psychology from Monash University, he also holds a Master of Science in Medicine (HIV, STIs and Sexual Health) from The University of Sydney. He is therefore interested in assisting clients in regard to couples counselling and sexual dysfunction.
Francesco can help with your issues or concerns such as anxiety, depression and phobias. Francesco also has a particular interest working with clients in regard to sexual health concerns. He can help you with workplace concerns, career counselling, life change and existential concerns. In addition to holding a Master of Professional Psychology from Monash University, he also holds a Master of Science in Medicine (HIV, STIs and Sexual Health) from The University of Sydney. He is therefore interested in assisting clients in regard to couples counselling and sexual dysfunction.
(03) 9070 3565 View (03) 9070 3565
Photo of Clarissa Martinez, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Clarissa Martinez
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Brighton, VIC 3186
Hello you may have arrived here in search of support and clarity or to understand some issues that may have had a profound impact within your life. If you are looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move into a new direction in your life I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I work one on one with adults at my practice located in Brighton. The services I provide is an integrative mixture of Kinesiology, Counselling, Neurofeedback therapy, Reiki and Sound healing.
Hello you may have arrived here in search of support and clarity or to understand some issues that may have had a profound impact within your life. If you are looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move into a new direction in your life I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I work one on one with adults at my practice located in Brighton. The services I provide is an integrative mixture of Kinesiology, Counselling, Neurofeedback therapy, Reiki and Sound healing.
(03) 7003 2286 View (03) 7003 2286
Photo of Emil Hodzic, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Emil Hodzic
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Emil supports adolescents, adults and parents, with particular interests in parenting, challlenging behaviours, ADHD, autism, neurodiversity, anxiety, low mood, trauma and burn out, OCD and binge eating.
Emil Hodzic is a Psychologist with 19 years’ experience supporting children age 10+ and adults through all stages, and life challenges. Emil provides neuroaffirming, evidence-based teletherapy australia wide and offers warm, practical support tailored to each person.
Emil supports adolescents, adults and parents, with particular interests in parenting, challlenging behaviours, ADHD, autism, neurodiversity, anxiety, low mood, trauma and burn out, OCD and binge eating.
Emil Hodzic is a Psychologist with 19 years’ experience supporting children age 10+ and adults through all stages, and life challenges. Emil provides neuroaffirming, evidence-based teletherapy australia wide and offers warm, practical support tailored to each person.
0452 400 842 View 0452 400 842
Photo of Jo-Elle Warhurst - Jo-Elle Warhurst - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jo-Elle Warhurst - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Brighton, VIC 3186
Jo-Elle is a Registered Psychologist with over twenty years experience specialising in supporting clients, children (5-12 years), teenagers (13-17 years) and adults, to overcome their psychological symptoms to achieve recovery and personal growth. Through the application of CBT, ACT and Mindfulness principles, Jo-Elle is able to assist clients to stabilise anxiety, mood fluctuation, insomnia, social withdrawal and rebuild their self esteem. Jo-Elle quickly establishes rapport with clients across a broad range of sectors and backgrounds to explore their challenges and equip them with the tools to resolve their presenting concerns.
Jo-Elle is a Registered Psychologist with over twenty years experience specialising in supporting clients, children (5-12 years), teenagers (13-17 years) and adults, to overcome their psychological symptoms to achieve recovery and personal growth. Through the application of CBT, ACT and Mindfulness principles, Jo-Elle is able to assist clients to stabilise anxiety, mood fluctuation, insomnia, social withdrawal and rebuild their self esteem. Jo-Elle quickly establishes rapport with clients across a broad range of sectors and backgrounds to explore their challenges and equip them with the tools to resolve their presenting concerns.
(03) 7003 2532 View (03) 7003 2532
Photo of Daniella Winik - Daniella Winik - People Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Daniella Winik - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Brighton, VIC 3186
Anxiety, Stress Management, Depression, School Issues & Counselling, Peer Relationships, Parenting Support, Issues & Guidance, Family Support, ASD ( Autism Spectrum Disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Building Resilience, Social Difficulties, Adjustment Disorders, Grief and Loss / Bereavement, Coping Skills, Divorce Counselling, Life Transitions, Life Coaching, Self-Esteem, Self-Confidence, Self-Development, Suicidal Ideation and Relationships.
Daniella Winik is an AHPRA Endorsed Counselling Psychologist with more than 20 years experience working with individuals of all ages across a range of settings, including primary and secondary schools, and private practice. Daniella has a gentle, calm approach, providing a caring, supportive and non-judgemental environment.
Anxiety, Stress Management, Depression, School Issues & Counselling, Peer Relationships, Parenting Support, Issues & Guidance, Family Support, ASD ( Autism Spectrum Disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Building Resilience, Social Difficulties, Adjustment Disorders, Grief and Loss / Bereavement, Coping Skills, Divorce Counselling, Life Transitions, Life Coaching, Self-Esteem, Self-Confidence, Self-Development, Suicidal Ideation and Relationships.
Daniella Winik is an AHPRA Endorsed Counselling Psychologist with more than 20 years experience working with individuals of all ages across a range of settings, including primary and secondary schools, and private practice. Daniella has a gentle, calm approach, providing a caring, supportive and non-judgemental environment.
(03) 7003 2718 View (03) 7003 2718
Photo of Xuan Tan - Xuan Tan - Clin Psych - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Xuan Tan - Clin Psych - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brighton, VIC 3186
Clinical Psychologist Xuan (pronounced "Shan") Tan provides evidence-based and person-centred treatment with adolescents, adults, couples and families from diverse cultural, linguistic, and economic backgrounds. Xuan has multilingual skills and can deliver services in English or in Mandarin 说中文 She aims to provide a warm space where clients could form an in-depth understanding of themselves, to reflect on existing or past experiences, and to learn and grow at a pace that suits them.
Clinical Psychologist Xuan (pronounced "Shan") Tan provides evidence-based and person-centred treatment with adolescents, adults, couples and families from diverse cultural, linguistic, and economic backgrounds. Xuan has multilingual skills and can deliver services in English or in Mandarin 说中文 She aims to provide a warm space where clients could form an in-depth understanding of themselves, to reflect on existing or past experiences, and to learn and grow at a pace that suits them.
(03) 7003 2350 View (03) 7003 2350
Photo of Nicola Collins - Kids At Max - Psych, Speech & OT, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Kids At Max - Psych, Speech & OT
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Brighton, VIC 3186
ADHD) Autism ( ASD) Bullying Challenging behaviours Depression Family issues Giftedness Intellectual Disability Learning issues Resilience & coping Relationships School readiness School refusal Self-esteem & assertiveness Sleep difficulties Special needs funding
Kids At Max provides counselling and psychological assessments for children and adolescents. We support a wide range of emotional, behavioural and developmental needs through personalised, family-centred care. Appointments are available in clinic, at home, at school and via telehealth, with funding options including NDIS, Medicare, Private Health Insurance and TAC. After an initial assessment, we work with families to create a tailored therapy plan with practical strategies and engaging sessions that support each child’s goals.
ADHD) Autism ( ASD) Bullying Challenging behaviours Depression Family issues Giftedness Intellectual Disability Learning issues Resilience & coping Relationships School readiness School refusal Self-esteem & assertiveness Sleep difficulties Special needs funding
Kids At Max provides counselling and psychological assessments for children and adolescents. We support a wide range of emotional, behavioural and developmental needs through personalised, family-centred care. Appointments are available in clinic, at home, at school and via telehealth, with funding options including NDIS, Medicare, Private Health Insurance and TAC. After an initial assessment, we work with families to create a tailored therapy plan with practical strategies and engaging sessions that support each child’s goals.
(03) 8771 4119 View (03) 8771 4119
Photo of Corinne Mescher, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Corinne Mescher
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I can also provide ADHD and Autism assessments and post-diagnosis psychological support.
My therapeutic approach is varied and integrative, drawing on several evidence-based models. I utilize EMDR for trauma processing, CBT to help clients address unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and Schema Therapy to assist clients in understanding and changing deeply ingrained, negative emotional and relational patterns.
I can also provide ADHD and Autism assessments and post-diagnosis psychological support.
My therapeutic approach is varied and integrative, drawing on several evidence-based models. I utilize EMDR for trauma processing, CBT to help clients address unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and Schema Therapy to assist clients in understanding and changing deeply ingrained, negative emotional and relational patterns.
(03) 9118 9089 View (03) 9118 9089
Photo of Ciaran Barton, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Ciaran Barton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I have national experience conducting psychological assessments in Family Law matters, including psychological risk evaluations, ASD, ADHD, and FASD.
My academic research focuses on ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD), with particular emphasis on challenges during developmental transitions. I have received specialist training in personality disorders, family therapy—including work with couples and same-sex couples—and psychological interventions tailored to the LGBT+ community.
I have national experience conducting psychological assessments in Family Law matters, including psychological risk evaluations, ASD, ADHD, and FASD.
My academic research focuses on ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD), with particular emphasis on challenges during developmental transitions. I have received specialist training in personality disorders, family therapy—including work with couples and same-sex couples—and psychological interventions tailored to the LGBT+ community.
0414 289 400 View 0414 289 400
Photo of Daniela Huepe, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Daniela Huepe
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I use neuroaffirming practices to support neurodivergent clients.
Life can feel overwhelming at times, and you don’t have to face it alone. If your struggling with thoughts and emotions, we can work together to navigate challenges, process emotions, and build resilience. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, understood, and empowered in your journey.
I use neuroaffirming practices to support neurodivergent clients.
Life can feel overwhelming at times, and you don’t have to face it alone. If your struggling with thoughts and emotions, we can work together to navigate challenges, process emotions, and build resilience. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, understood, and empowered in your journey.
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Photo of Pavel Golod, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Pavel Golod
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
Hi, I'm Paul from Clear Perspectives Psychology, and I'm hoping to work with those committed to improving their mental wellbeing and who are ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier life. Whether facing issues relating to anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I welcome you to contact me for professional support. I use evidence-based practical tools and strategies, which are personally tailored to your strengths and circumstances, to provide focused and optimal care. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to help with your specific challenges and needs.
Hi, I'm Paul from Clear Perspectives Psychology, and I'm hoping to work with those committed to improving their mental wellbeing and who are ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier life. Whether facing issues relating to anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I welcome you to contact me for professional support. I use evidence-based practical tools and strategies, which are personally tailored to your strengths and circumstances, to provide focused and optimal care. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to help with your specific challenges and needs.
(03) 7003 2734 View (03) 7003 2734
Photo of Leah Smith - Opening Doors Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Opening Doors Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Leah Smith, Director and Principal Psychologist of "Opening Doors Psychology" has a passion for working with adolescents (14+ years), young adults/adults, and also works with some couples. Leah is particularly interested in working with eating disorders and body image concerns, as well as, anxiety disorders, trauma, neurodivergence and interpersonal/relational difficulties. Leah strives to provide a safe space for clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, guide clients to and equip them with the necessary skills, to enable them to manage their symptoms and unique difficulties, and address ongoing problematic patterns.
Leah Smith, Director and Principal Psychologist of "Opening Doors Psychology" has a passion for working with adolescents (14+ years), young adults/adults, and also works with some couples. Leah is particularly interested in working with eating disorders and body image concerns, as well as, anxiety disorders, trauma, neurodivergence and interpersonal/relational difficulties. Leah strives to provide a safe space for clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, guide clients to and equip them with the necessary skills, to enable them to manage their symptoms and unique difficulties, and address ongoing problematic patterns.
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Photo of Melanie Strang, Psychologist, MBBS, PsyBA General
Melanie Strang
Psychologist, MBBS, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi there ! Thanks for clicking on my profile. I have over 20 years of practitioner experience, initially as a doctor working in mental health, then as a counsellor and presently, a psychologist.
Hi there ! Thanks for clicking on my profile. I have over 20 years of practitioner experience, initially as a doctor working in mental health, then as a counsellor and presently, a psychologist.
(03) 7003 2841 View (03) 7003 2841

See more therapy options for Brighton

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.