Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Clayton
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and those with ADHD or autism who want to better understand themselves and feel more in control of their lives.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to you. I use evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), while recognising that everyone’s experiences are unique. This means we focus on practical strategies that feel realistic, supportive, and that support meaningful change.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and those with ADHD or autism who want to better understand themselves and feel more in control of their lives.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to you. I use evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), while recognising that everyone’s experiences are unique. This means we focus on practical strategies that feel realistic, supportive, and that support meaningful change.
I have also worked extensively with children on the autism spectrum, providing tailored counselling support to meet their needs.
I am a Diploma-qualified Counsellor from the Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors (AIPC) and am currently in my final year of a Bachelor’s degree in Counselling.
Having lived in three different countries, I have been exposed to diverse societies, cultures, and traditions. This experience has helped me become adaptable and comfortable working with people from all walks of life. I believe that life experiences deeply enhance one’s ability to empathise. I offer each client unconditional positive regard and genuine attention, as I value every individual’s story as unique and worth listening to.
I have also worked extensively with children on the autism spectrum, providing tailored counselling support to meet their needs.
I am a Diploma-qualified Counsellor from the Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors (AIPC) and am currently in my final year of a Bachelor’s degree in Counselling.
Having lived in three different countries, I have been exposed to diverse societies, cultures, and traditions. This experience has helped me become adaptable and comfortable working with people from all walks of life. I believe that life experiences deeply enhance one’s ability to empathise. I offer each client unconditional positive regard and genuine attention, as I value every individual’s story as unique and worth listening to.
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
I offer a supportive and non-judgemental space, with respect for your experiences, culture, and pace. My practice is person-centred and collaborative, drawing from evidence-based approaches to explore what matters most to you.
People may seek psychological support for reasons including anxiety, low mood, trauma, grief, or significant life changes. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in familiar patterns, or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. Sometimes it can be hard to put what you’re experiencing into words — and that’s okay. Through therapy, there is space to explore this together, at a pace that feels right for you.
I offer a supportive and non-judgemental space, with respect for your experiences, culture, and pace. My practice is person-centred and collaborative, drawing from evidence-based approaches to explore what matters most to you.
People may seek psychological support for reasons including anxiety, low mood, trauma, grief, or significant life changes. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in familiar patterns, or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. Sometimes it can be hard to put what you’re experiencing into words — and that’s okay. Through therapy, there is space to explore this together, at a pace that feels right for you.
As a young immmigrant, I understand how it feels like to live between two worlds. The struggle of fitting in with Australian culture while maintaining traditional values, the question of listening to your parents or following your heart, the generational trauma that never got addressed until it passed on. We feel like outsiders, never truly belong anywhere.
As a young immmigrant, I understand how it feels like to live between two worlds. The struggle of fitting in with Australian culture while maintaining traditional values, the question of listening to your parents or following your heart, the generational trauma that never got addressed until it passed on. We feel like outsiders, never truly belong anywhere.
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.
I am keen to support individuals who are experiencing emotional distress, ongoing mood or relationship difficulties, or the lasting impacts of complex trauma. Many of the people I work with are seeking relief, clarity, or a deeper understanding of themselves and their patterns.
I’m passionate about working with clients from LGBTQIA+, neurodiverse, and multicultural communities, offering a safe and affirming space to explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change.
I am keen to support individuals who are experiencing emotional distress, ongoing mood or relationship difficulties, or the lasting impacts of complex trauma. Many of the people I work with are seeking relief, clarity, or a deeper understanding of themselves and their patterns.
I’m passionate about working with clients from LGBTQIA+, neurodiverse, and multicultural communities, offering a safe and affirming space to explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change.
I walk with people who may be navigating systemic oppression, complex trauma & addiction, substance use concerns, as well as neurodivergent, LGTBQIA+, mixed-cultural & BIPOC experiences.
In our sessions, I offer a culturally-responsive space, walking alongside you using antioppressive, intersectional, trauma- & addiction-informed lenses grounded in evidence-based therapies. Here, you can bring your identity, body & stories into a space that invites connection, choice & the unfolding of what has been held, unspoken, or ready to heal.
I walk with people who may be navigating systemic oppression, complex trauma & addiction, substance use concerns, as well as neurodivergent, LGTBQIA+, mixed-cultural & BIPOC experiences.
In our sessions, I offer a culturally-responsive space, walking alongside you using antioppressive, intersectional, trauma- & addiction-informed lenses grounded in evidence-based therapies. Here, you can bring your identity, body & stories into a space that invites connection, choice & the unfolding of what has been held, unspoken, or ready to heal.
I provide online therapy for highly sensitive people and for those with trauma and general concerns, in a safe container 1:1 in the form of psychotherapy and holistic counselling. I understand the challenges that come with being a sensitive person in a fast-paced world, and I’m here to support you in finding your own path to peace and self-acceptance. My work is not just about addressing immediate concerns like anxiety, depression, or life transitions, but about empowering you to embrace who you are at your core.
I provide online therapy for highly sensitive people and for those with trauma and general concerns, in a safe container 1:1 in the form of psychotherapy and holistic counselling. I understand the challenges that come with being a sensitive person in a fast-paced world, and I’m here to support you in finding your own path to peace and self-acceptance. My work is not just about addressing immediate concerns like anxiety, depression, or life transitions, but about empowering you to embrace who you are at your core.
Our counsellors will be able to assist you with many issues including: grief and loss, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Karinya offers high quality professional counselling services to anyone regardless of race, gender, lifestyle, religion, or status.
Our counsellors will be able to assist you with many issues including: grief and loss, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Karinya offers high quality professional counselling services to anyone regardless of race, gender, lifestyle, religion, or status.
You may feel overwhelmed by life’s transitions or disconnected from your sense of self and at this time many are looking for understanding, practical coping strategies, and greater clarity during times of change or overwhelm. Having lived across India, the US, and Malaysia before moving to Melbourne, I bring a deeply lived multicultural perspective to our work. I understand the complexities of identity and belonging firsthand. My approach of therapy focuses on strengthening emotional regulation, self-understanding, and resilience within a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive space.
You may feel overwhelmed by life’s transitions or disconnected from your sense of self and at this time many are looking for understanding, practical coping strategies, and greater clarity during times of change or overwhelm. Having lived across India, the US, and Malaysia before moving to Melbourne, I bring a deeply lived multicultural perspective to our work. I understand the complexities of identity and belonging firsthand. My approach of therapy focuses on strengthening emotional regulation, self-understanding, and resilience within a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive space.
I work from a strength and values-based approach, providing a supportive environment to explore and challenge thoughts, feelings, and behaviour.
My practice is person-centred and humanistic, drawing on a variety of psychological modalities. I believe the most effective therapy is flexible, shaped by what you're facing.
I work from a strength and values-based approach, providing a supportive environment to explore and challenge thoughts, feelings, and behaviour.
My practice is person-centred and humanistic, drawing on a variety of psychological modalities. I believe the most effective therapy is flexible, shaped by what you're facing.
Kim is a registered psychologist with over 10 years of experience delivering therapy and assessments to diverse populations across the lifespan. She utilises Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based modalities to help individuals meet their unique mental health goals.
Kim is a registered psychologist with over 10 years of experience delivering therapy and assessments to diverse populations across the lifespan. She utilises Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based modalities to help individuals meet their unique mental health goals.
Whether it’s the crushing pressure of high school as a teen or the exhaustion of your 30s, life transitions shouldn't feel this heavy. I help teens and adults navigate the 'what's next' with practical DBT/CBT skills and a breath of fresh air. If a stuffy office feels intimidating, we can take our sessions outdoors, creating a calmer space to tackle school stress, career burnout, and shifting relationships.
Whether it’s the crushing pressure of high school as a teen or the exhaustion of your 30s, life transitions shouldn't feel this heavy. I help teens and adults navigate the 'what's next' with practical DBT/CBT skills and a breath of fresh air. If a stuffy office feels intimidating, we can take our sessions outdoors, creating a calmer space to tackle school stress, career burnout, and shifting relationships.
As a both English and Mandarin -speaking professional, I am experienced in working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. I am a registered psychologist who believes that healing starts with emotions. Over the years I’ve worked with many people experiencing PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), depression, and anxiety—challenges that often leave behind hidden emotional traces that continue to shape daily life.
As a both English and Mandarin -speaking professional, I am experienced in working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. I am a registered psychologist who believes that healing starts with emotions. Over the years I’ve worked with many people experiencing PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), depression, and anxiety—challenges that often leave behind hidden emotional traces that continue to shape daily life.
Although my specialty is working with neurodivergent individuals, I also provide psychotherapy and treatment to all clients wanting to deal with various issues affecting them.
You may be struggling with anxiety and/or depression. You may be experiencing a number of difficulties which require a psychological evaluation to find clarity; perhaps a diagnosis and recommendations for strategies to deal with your problems.
Although my specialty is working with neurodivergent individuals, I also provide psychotherapy and treatment to all clients wanting to deal with various issues affecting them.
You may be struggling with anxiety and/or depression. You may be experiencing a number of difficulties which require a psychological evaluation to find clarity; perhaps a diagnosis and recommendations for strategies to deal with your problems.
I am a neurodivergent (AuDHD) & queer counsellor who is committed to providing a safe & nonjudgmental (shame-free) space for all genders, identities, neurotypes, and bodies.
My special interests are working with late/adult-diagnosed neurodivergent individuals, people who'd like support in navigating the mental health system, people who feel like an outsider or lack a sense of belonging, people who feel marginalised due to their identity (identities), and people who struggle with complex mental health needs.
I am a neurodivergent (AuDHD) & queer counsellor who is committed to providing a safe & nonjudgmental (shame-free) space for all genders, identities, neurotypes, and bodies.
My special interests are working with late/adult-diagnosed neurodivergent individuals, people who'd like support in navigating the mental health system, people who feel like an outsider or lack a sense of belonging, people who feel marginalised due to their identity (identities), and people who struggle with complex mental health needs.
I have over a decade of experience in both public and private mental health sectors. I have a compassionate and collaborative approach, and I work closely with clients to help them pinpoint their life-worth living goals, identify barriers to change, and support skills development to enhance behavioural effectiveness and improve overall sense of wellbeing. I have worked with individuals grappling with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have developed a keen interest in supporting those dealing with disordered eating and emotional dysregulation challenges.
I have over a decade of experience in both public and private mental health sectors. I have a compassionate and collaborative approach, and I work closely with clients to help them pinpoint their life-worth living goals, identify barriers to change, and support skills development to enhance behavioural effectiveness and improve overall sense of wellbeing. I have worked with individuals grappling with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have developed a keen interest in supporting those dealing with disordered eating and emotional dysregulation challenges.
My special interests include Autism, ADHD, anxiety, behavioural issues, and neurodiversity affirming parenting.
I am experienced in applying for NDIS funding and providing NDIS review reports. However, I only work with self-managed NDIS clients, as well as clients with Mental Health Care Plans (which means they can access Medicare rebates), and private clients. I offer telehealth appointments on Mondays and Tuesdays and face to face appointments on Wednesdays only.
My special interests include Autism, ADHD, anxiety, behavioural issues, and neurodiversity affirming parenting.
I am experienced in applying for NDIS funding and providing NDIS review reports. However, I only work with self-managed NDIS clients, as well as clients with Mental Health Care Plans (which means they can access Medicare rebates), and private clients. I offer telehealth appointments on Mondays and Tuesdays and face to face appointments on Wednesdays only.
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Clayton
- Ashwood
- Burwood East
- Chadstone
- Glen Waverley
- Hughesdale
- Mount Waverley
- Mulgrave
- Oakleigh
- Springvale
- Vermont
- Vermont South
- Wheelers Hill
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.