Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Carlton

Ayna Hennessy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have lived experience & extensive knowledge of the complexities of ADHD, Sensory Issues, Autism, disordered eating & chronic pain.
Not all of us neurodivergent people have 'superpowers', most of us bump into things. However, catering to my niche has really made me marvel at the depth in our thought process. Let's harness our strengths. We are sensitive, empathetic & more resilient than we realise. We can bounce back & stop people pleasing & set boundaries; be our true authentic self.
I have lived experience & extensive knowledge of the complexities of ADHD, Sensory Issues, Autism, disordered eating & chronic pain.
Not all of us neurodivergent people have 'superpowers', most of us bump into things. However, catering to my niche has really made me marvel at the depth in our thought process. Let's harness our strengths. We are sensitive, empathetic & more resilient than we realise. We can bounce back & stop people pleasing & set boundaries; be our true authentic self.
(03) 7003 2926 View (03) 7003 2926
Amy Russell
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
Whether you are navigating 'what’s next' after an adult ADHD/ Autism diagnosis, or you're simply exhausted from masking and feeling out of step, you are welcome here.
In counselling I help adults explore neurodivergence, recover from burnout, navigate masking, strengthen boundaries, and understand identity and relationships. I offer practical strategies, psychoeducation, and a flexible, sensory‑aware approach. Whether you’re pre‑ or post‑diagnosis, we work at your pace to build clarity, confidence and self‑compassion.
Whether you are navigating 'what’s next' after an adult ADHD/ Autism diagnosis, or you're simply exhausted from masking and feeling out of step, you are welcome here.
In counselling I help adults explore neurodivergence, recover from burnout, navigate masking, strengthen boundaries, and understand identity and relationships. I offer practical strategies, psychoeducation, and a flexible, sensory‑aware approach. Whether you’re pre‑ or post‑diagnosis, we work at your pace to build clarity, confidence and self‑compassion.
0437 437 432 View 0437 437 432
Michelle Mennie
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
Michelle (she/her/hers) is a Clinical Psychologist, who has experience in both public and private settings, including working in public hospitals. She is passionate about providing affirming care to individuals in areas, such as anxiety, OCD, trauma, eating disorders and working with neuro-divergent individuals.
Michelle (she/her/hers) is a Clinical Psychologist, who has experience in both public and private settings, including working in public hospitals. She is passionate about providing affirming care to individuals in areas, such as anxiety, OCD, trauma, eating disorders and working with neuro-divergent individuals.
(03) 7003 2950 View (03) 7003 2950
Kodi Duruchukwu
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
Carlton, VIC 3053
As a queer, and neurodivergent clinician, my lived experience within the community aids me to innately empathise with experiences clients may be navigating.
My main mission is to create a warm and welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the CLAD, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent communities. I love helping clients embrace and be kind to the parts of themselves they might find challenging, while also equipping them with the tools to navigate life's twists and turns.
As a queer, and neurodivergent clinician, my lived experience within the community aids me to innately empathise with experiences clients may be navigating.
My main mission is to create a warm and welcoming therapeutic space where everyone feels included and valued, especially those in the CLAD, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent communities. I love helping clients embrace and be kind to the parts of themselves they might find challenging, while also equipping them with the tools to navigate life's twists and turns.
(02) 9159 6657 View (02) 9159 6657
Ruth Minkov
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Carlton, VIC 3053
I offer neuroaffirming, trauma-informed neuropsychological, academic, autism and ADHD assessment, as well as psychological therapy, and ADHD coaching.
As an AuDHD Neuropsychologist, I provide deep-dive assessments and therapy. My reports focus on practical tools and advocacy, delivered within 2-4 weeks. In therapy, I use an integrative toolkit: EMDR, IFS, ACT, DBT, Schema, and Somatic work, to move past talk-therapy and towards real change. I also support complex presentations including C-PTSD and EDs.
I offer neuroaffirming, trauma-informed neuropsychological, academic, autism and ADHD assessment, as well as psychological therapy, and ADHD coaching.
As an AuDHD Neuropsychologist, I provide deep-dive assessments and therapy. My reports focus on practical tools and advocacy, delivered within 2-4 weeks. In therapy, I use an integrative toolkit: EMDR, IFS, ACT, DBT, Schema, and Somatic work, to move past talk-therapy and towards real change. I also support complex presentations including C-PTSD and EDs.
(03) 7003 2743 View (03) 7003 2743
Georgia de Keyzer
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Prov
Serves Area
I am deeply committed to queer and neurodiverse individuals, I support LGBTQIA plus and neurodivergent clients through identity exploration, relationships, trauma, and mental health challenges.
I am a Psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology. I have experience in community and private settings, supporting clients with their neurodiversity, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I draw on Cognitive Behavioural and Psychodynamic approaches, tailoring my work to each client’s needs. My style balances practical strategies for daily life with deeper exploration of past experiences and how they shape current patterns, emotions, and relationships.
I am deeply committed to queer and neurodiverse individuals, I support LGBTQIA plus and neurodivergent clients through identity exploration, relationships, trauma, and mental health challenges.
I am a Psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology. I have experience in community and private settings, supporting clients with their neurodiversity, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I draw on Cognitive Behavioural and Psychodynamic approaches, tailoring my work to each client’s needs. My style balances practical strategies for daily life with deeper exploration of past experiences and how they shape current patterns, emotions, and relationships.
(03) 7003 2683 View (03) 7003 2683
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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Dr Lei Gryffydd
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Serves Area
Paediatric and adult clinical neuropsychologist specialising in the assessment and management of Autism and ADHD.
Neuropsychological assessments, interventions and ongoing support for those experiencing difficulties in attention, executive functioning, learning, memory and social communication.
Paediatric and adult clinical neuropsychologist specialising in the assessment and management of Autism and ADHD.
Neuropsychological assessments, interventions and ongoing support for those experiencing difficulties in attention, executive functioning, learning, memory and social communication.
(03) 7003 2372 View (03) 7003 2372
Brittaney Evans
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Brittaney has a keen interest in adolescent (13 and older) and adult psychology, with a special focus on social-emotional development, autism, ADHD, trauma, learning differences, and anxiety.
Brittaney is experienced and trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She also has expertise in administering a wide range of psychological assessments.
Brittaney has a keen interest in adolescent (13 and older) and adult psychology, with a special focus on social-emotional development, autism, ADHD, trauma, learning differences, and anxiety.
Brittaney is experienced and trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She also has expertise in administering a wide range of psychological assessments.
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Dr Arran Rose
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Online Only
I provide both couples counselling and individual therapy and work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, substance use issues, grief and relationship issues, as well as with people who are neurodivergent.
I am a registered clinical and forensic psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia and a member of the Australian Psychological Society. I provide psychological support to clients through Medicare, the NDIS, Workcover and TAC. I work with clients using EMDR, ACT, CBT and Motivational Interviewing therapy principles.
I provide both couples counselling and individual therapy and work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, substance use issues, grief and relationship issues, as well as with people who are neurodivergent.
I am a registered clinical and forensic psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia and a member of the Australian Psychological Society. I provide psychological support to clients through Medicare, the NDIS, Workcover and TAC. I work with clients using EMDR, ACT, CBT and Motivational Interviewing therapy principles.
(03) 9344 1573 View (03) 9344 1573
Anke Bezuidenhout
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
My diverse experience spans schools, early childhood intervention centres and private practice where I have worked predominantly with young adults, autism spectrum disorder, and culturally and linguistically diverse clients (particularly from regions across Asia and the Middle East).
I use an integrative approach tailored to each client, drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, ACT, Attachment Theory, Narrative Therapy, IPT, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
My diverse experience spans schools, early childhood intervention centres and private practice where I have worked predominantly with young adults, autism spectrum disorder, and culturally and linguistically diverse clients (particularly from regions across Asia and the Middle East).
I use an integrative approach tailored to each client, drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, ACT, Attachment Theory, Narrative Therapy, IPT, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
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John Cameron
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
I am a psychoanalyst working with adults and children. I offer support in times of crisis and long-term treatment to address sources of inner conflict, anxiety and distress. My work is grounded in the ethics, theory and practice established by Sigmund Freud and elucidated by Jacques Lacan. It recognises and seeks to articulate one’s singular subjectivity, beneath the identities and expectations we unknowingly adhere to.
I am a psychoanalyst working with adults and children. I offer support in times of crisis and long-term treatment to address sources of inner conflict, anxiety and distress. My work is grounded in the ethics, theory and practice established by Sigmund Freud and elucidated by Jacques Lacan. It recognises and seeks to articulate one’s singular subjectivity, beneath the identities and expectations we unknowingly adhere to.
0407 426 107 View 0407 426 107
Olivia Fox
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
Hi! I am a Clinical Psychologist committed to providing a warm and genuine therapeutic environment where clients feel safe and heard. I understand that seeking therapy is a vulnerable experience. I am committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can express themselves openly and authentically. My approach is collaborative and personalised. I integrate skill-building techniques with deeper exploration of the emotional challenges and vulnerabilities that shape our experiences. I believe in the power of self-discovery and work to empower clients as they take meaningful steps toward lasting change.
Hi! I am a Clinical Psychologist committed to providing a warm and genuine therapeutic environment where clients feel safe and heard. I understand that seeking therapy is a vulnerable experience. I am committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can express themselves openly and authentically. My approach is collaborative and personalised. I integrate skill-building techniques with deeper exploration of the emotional challenges and vulnerabilities that shape our experiences. I believe in the power of self-discovery and work to empower clients as they take meaningful steps toward lasting change.
0432 716 573 View 0432 716 573
Unison Mental Health
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
We work with anxiety, depression, and trauma — including EMDR and DBT — and specialise in relationship dynamics: polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQIA+ experiences, Kink and neurodivergent presentations.
We have a diverse team of counsellors, psychotherapists, psychologists, relationship therapists and an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, with advanced training across modalities such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, IFS‑informed work, psychedelic integration, Gestalt, Schema and emotion‑focused therapies.
We work with anxiety, depression, and trauma — including EMDR and DBT — and specialise in relationship dynamics: polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQIA+ experiences, Kink and neurodivergent presentations.
We have a diverse team of counsellors, psychotherapists, psychologists, relationship therapists and an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, with advanced training across modalities such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, IFS‑informed work, psychedelic integration, Gestalt, Schema and emotion‑focused therapies.
0480 706 922 View 0480 706 922
Martina Stewart | Elpis Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Carlton, VIC 3053
I am a registered psychologist and Board-approved supervisor. I have been providing therapeutic interventions for over 15 years in a wide range of settings including early intervention services, community mental health, and forensic rehabilitation. I provide therapeutic interventions to clients presenting with a range of complex issues, including depression and anxiety, personality disorders and substance misuse. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals who are affected by trauma-related difficulties and I have a thorough understanding of the impact of early life experiences in shaping a person's development.
I am a registered psychologist and Board-approved supervisor. I have been providing therapeutic interventions for over 15 years in a wide range of settings including early intervention services, community mental health, and forensic rehabilitation. I provide therapeutic interventions to clients presenting with a range of complex issues, including depression and anxiety, personality disorders and substance misuse. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals who are affected by trauma-related difficulties and I have a thorough understanding of the impact of early life experiences in shaping a person's development.
(03) 7003 2547 View (03) 7003 2547
Eva Birch
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L1
Carlton, VIC 3053
I provide psychoanalytic treatment, psychotherapy, and counselling services. In my practice, I pay attention to what is unique and singular about each patient, listening with curiosity and without judgement, allowing your own rhythm and pace to guide the work.
I provide psychoanalytic treatment, psychotherapy, and counselling services. In my practice, I pay attention to what is unique and singular about each patient, listening with curiosity and without judgement, allowing your own rhythm and pace to guide the work.
0478 416 592 View 0478 416 592
Chris Carter
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Carlton, VIC 3053
I am a psychologist with experience working with adults and adolescents in clinical mental health, depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I work with adults with depression, anxiety, personality difficulties and substance use, as well as family and relationship issues, gender and sexuality, anger, life direction, trauma, abuse, self harm and suicidal thoughts. I listen without judgment and provide psychotherapy that is tailored to each individual, the work is confidential.
I am a psychologist with experience working with adults and adolescents in clinical mental health, depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I work with adults with depression, anxiety, personality difficulties and substance use, as well as family and relationship issues, gender and sexuality, anger, life direction, trauma, abuse, self harm and suicidal thoughts. I listen without judgment and provide psychotherapy that is tailored to each individual, the work is confidential.
(03) 9111 5364 View (03) 9111 5364
Laura Solis
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
I am a registered Psychotherapist with PACFA. As an integrative psychotherapist and couples therapist my approach is relational and collaborative. I embrace your unique experience and prioritise creating a safe, supportive and non - judgmental environment for you to navigate the intricate concerns you may be facing. You will be met with warmth, curiosity and respect. I trust in you and your process and believe in our innate capacity for change, growth and healing. My approach is integrative, humanistic, existential, holistic and draws from trauma informed, developmental and systemic frameworks. I offer mindfulness and somatic
I am a registered Psychotherapist with PACFA. As an integrative psychotherapist and couples therapist my approach is relational and collaborative. I embrace your unique experience and prioritise creating a safe, supportive and non - judgmental environment for you to navigate the intricate concerns you may be facing. You will be met with warmth, curiosity and respect. I trust in you and your process and believe in our innate capacity for change, growth and healing. My approach is integrative, humanistic, existential, holistic and draws from trauma informed, developmental and systemic frameworks. I offer mindfulness and somatic
(03) 7003 2501 View (03) 7003 2501
Dr Jonathan Kettle
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
Previously the Head of Clinical Practice at The Cairnmillar Institute, I am a clinical psychologist working with adults, adolescents and couples, with expertise in depression & anxiety, trauma & abuse, substance use, relationships, complex presentations, gender & sexuality issues, and ADHD and ASD assessments with people aged 13 and older.
My therapeutic approach is to understand you and what has led you to come and talk with me, and to develop a therapeutic relationship together with your therapy unfolding over time. I provide a confidential and non-judgmental space in which to discuss your concerns and how to best work together, and work with people over short and longer timeframes.
Previously the Head of Clinical Practice at The Cairnmillar Institute, I am a clinical psychologist working with adults, adolescents and couples, with expertise in depression & anxiety, trauma & abuse, substance use, relationships, complex presentations, gender & sexuality issues, and ADHD and ASD assessments with people aged 13 and older.
My therapeutic approach is to understand you and what has led you to come and talk with me, and to develop a therapeutic relationship together with your therapy unfolding over time. I provide a confidential and non-judgmental space in which to discuss your concerns and how to best work together, and work with people over short and longer timeframes.
0414 446 403 View 0414 446 403
Kirstin Elizabeth Thomas
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Carlton, VIC 3053
I am a dedicated psychologist with a passion for supporting children, adolescents and families - particularly within the Autism, ADHD and developmental delay communities.
I use a strengths-based, collaborative approach and celebrate neurodiversity and individuality. I strive to create safe, inclusive spaces where people feel understood, empowered, and equipped with the tools they need to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.
I am a dedicated psychologist with a passion for supporting children, adolescents and families - particularly within the Autism, ADHD and developmental delay communities.
I use a strengths-based, collaborative approach and celebrate neurodiversity and individuality. I strive to create safe, inclusive spaces where people feel understood, empowered, and equipped with the tools they need to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.
1300 771 465 View 1300 771 465
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.