Autism Counselling in Footscray, VIC

Photo of Stephanie Heinemann, Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Stephanie Heinemann
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
Stephanie enjoys working with people of all ages with presentations of anxiety, depression, perfectionism, ADHD, autism, and changed levels of ability.
Stephanie focuses on building a comfortable and inviting space using a person-centred, strengths-based approach to promote confidence and self-acceptance. She observes a trauma-informed and culturally responsive practice and can adapt the therapy approach to suit your needs and goals.
Stephanie enjoys working with people of all ages with presentations of anxiety, depression, perfectionism, ADHD, autism, and changed levels of ability.
Stephanie focuses on building a comfortable and inviting space using a person-centred, strengths-based approach to promote confidence and self-acceptance. She observes a trauma-informed and culturally responsive practice and can adapt the therapy approach to suit your needs and goals.
(03) 8338 1187 View (03) 8338 1187
Photo of Daniela Dusanovic, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Daniela Dusanovic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Daniela has a passion for working with kids, adolescents, and adults with various presentations; Autism, ADHD, anxiety concerns, depressive disorders, and personality disorders (such as, BPD).
Daniela works within a CBT/Psychodynamic lens, with her incorporating elements from various interventions as necessary, such as DBT modules, ACT principles, Imagery rescripting, and Psychodynamic therapy.
Daniela has a passion for working with kids, adolescents, and adults with various presentations; Autism, ADHD, anxiety concerns, depressive disorders, and personality disorders (such as, BPD).
Daniela works within a CBT/Psychodynamic lens, with her incorporating elements from various interventions as necessary, such as DBT modules, ACT principles, Imagery rescripting, and Psychodynamic therapy.
(03) 9088 7585 View (03) 9088 7585
Photo of Sophie Manente, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Sophie Manente
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I specialize in complex trauma, and an emerging speciality is autism & ADHD.
I work with my clients in a human, down to earth way. I see us as two people working together to find what will make things better for you. We'll look at more than just your symptoms; we'll look at your life experiences, your family & ancestral history, societal & environmental systems around you, and how your body is responding to all of this. I tend to work deeply and do more than just teach you strategies. I am interested in getting to the root cause of things, because I believe that is where we find liberation and self-compassion.
I specialize in complex trauma, and an emerging speciality is autism & ADHD.
I work with my clients in a human, down to earth way. I see us as two people working together to find what will make things better for you. We'll look at more than just your symptoms; we'll look at your life experiences, your family & ancestral history, societal & environmental systems around you, and how your body is responding to all of this. I tend to work deeply and do more than just teach you strategies. I am interested in getting to the root cause of things, because I believe that is where we find liberation and self-compassion.
(03) 4505 2412 View (03) 4505 2412
Photo of Hana Weeramanthri, Counsellor, MC
Hana Weeramanthri
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
Waitlist for new clients
I have my own lived experience of queerness, chronic illness, mental health distress, recovery and neurodivergence ( autism & ADHD) and this deeply impacts my work.
My therapeutic style includes a mix of attachment theory based approaches, and internal family systems, somatic experiencing and psychodynamic therapies. I utilise non-Western conceptualisations of health, mental health, and wellbeing and am deeply influenced by First Nations knowledge of healing, community, kinship and Country. I aim to work with clients' own generational wisdoms, knowledges, and strengths, to improve wellbeing outcomes. I work to interrogate the effects of colonisation, systemic oppression and marginalisation on individuals and communities, as well as the limitations and harms of Western mental health services.
I have my own lived experience of queerness, chronic illness, mental health distress, recovery and neurodivergence ( autism & ADHD) and this deeply impacts my work.
My therapeutic style includes a mix of attachment theory based approaches, and internal family systems, somatic experiencing and psychodynamic therapies. I utilise non-Western conceptualisations of health, mental health, and wellbeing and am deeply influenced by First Nations knowledge of healing, community, kinship and Country. I aim to work with clients' own generational wisdoms, knowledges, and strengths, to improve wellbeing outcomes. I work to interrogate the effects of colonisation, systemic oppression and marginalisation on individuals and communities, as well as the limitations and harms of Western mental health services.
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Photo of Linda Taimre - The Galaxy Clinic, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
The Galaxy Clinic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I also work with neurodiverse young people, such as those with autism or ADHD, experiencing mental health difficulties.
My approach to therapy is warm, open, and honest, creating a space where young people can be themselves without judgement, even if they’re not sure who they are yet. I draw on evidence-based techniques including CBT, DBT, family therapy techniques, and play-based therapy, adapting them to the needs of whoever is in the room including parents/carers.
I also work with neurodiverse young people, such as those with autism or ADHD, experiencing mental health difficulties.
My approach to therapy is warm, open, and honest, creating a space where young people can be themselves without judgement, even if they’re not sure who they are yet. I draw on evidence-based techniques including CBT, DBT, family therapy techniques, and play-based therapy, adapting them to the needs of whoever is in the room including parents/carers.
(03) 7003 2639 View (03) 7003 2639
Photo of Danielle Melia - Affirming Wellness, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Danielle Melia - Affirming Wellness
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Adult ADHD/ Autism assessments.
There's an assumption that we should already be great at life, despite not generally being taught the skills to be as effective, confident, emotionally stable or as clear-headed as we want to be. I believe that the right therapist can help your unique brain and nervous system learn those skills in a way that is more easeful and works best for you.
Adult ADHD/ Autism assessments.
There's an assumption that we should already be great at life, despite not generally being taught the skills to be as effective, confident, emotionally stable or as clear-headed as we want to be. I believe that the right therapist can help your unique brain and nervous system learn those skills in a way that is more easeful and works best for you.
(03) 5905 7089 View (03) 5905 7089
Photo of Mary Ta, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mary Ta
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
I'm an Educational and Developmental Psychologist who's passionate about working with you in an engaging, collaborative, and compassionate way. Using evidence-based practices, I support individuals (aged 10 years and above) for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, burnout, stress, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues - among other issues listed below.
I'm an Educational and Developmental Psychologist who's passionate about working with you in an engaging, collaborative, and compassionate way. Using evidence-based practices, I support individuals (aged 10 years and above) for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, burnout, stress, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues - among other issues listed below.
(03) 8566 7768 View (03) 8566 7768
Photo of Kiri Tsalparos, Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Kiri Tsalparos
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a registered psychologist and AHPRA board approved supervisor. I have worked across both the government and private sectors for over 15 years. I am currently focussing on assessment work and have extensive experience in ASD assessment, ADHD assessment for both children and adults. I also conduct cognitive assessments for NDIS funding and within the the school system. I have also worked within the justice system with Corrections Victoria and QLD Corrections with sexual and violent offenders.
I am a registered psychologist and AHPRA board approved supervisor. I have worked across both the government and private sectors for over 15 years. I am currently focussing on assessment work and have extensive experience in ASD assessment, ADHD assessment for both children and adults. I also conduct cognitive assessments for NDIS funding and within the the school system. I have also worked within the justice system with Corrections Victoria and QLD Corrections with sexual and violent offenders.
(03) 9000 0286 View (03) 9000 0286
Photo of Annabel Chan, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Annabel Chan
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Online Only
Annabel works with adolescents, couples, families, and adults who are sexuality and gender diverse, neurodiverse, alternative occupation and lifestyles, with attachment vulnerabilities, have forensic needs, or are a target of problem behaviour (stalking, family violence, online harassment, etc).
Annabel works with adolescents, couples, families, and adults who are sexuality and gender diverse, neurodiverse, alternative occupation and lifestyles, with attachment vulnerabilities, have forensic needs, or are a target of problem behaviour (stalking, family violence, online harassment, etc).
0413 887 975 View 0413 887 975
Photo of Nathan Smith, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Nathan Smith
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help. I also facilitate Dungeons and Dragons Group Therapy sessions for clients wanting to use play and roleplay therapy toward their healing. This is a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence, work through anxiety and depression, and process trauma.
I have a passion for working with young people to empower and support them with their challenges. I also work with people of all ages and gender identities. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, AOD, relationship issues, or any thing else I'd be happy to help. I also facilitate Dungeons and Dragons Group Therapy sessions for clients wanting to use play and roleplay therapy toward their healing. This is a great way to boost self-esteem and confidence, work through anxiety and depression, and process trauma.
(03) 8594 4097 View (03) 8594 4097
Photo of Natalie Susan Burfurd - Heart and Hope Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Heart and Hope Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Newport and Footscray areas. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over twenty years of general counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is accessible and affordable to people who need it.
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Newport and Footscray areas. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over twenty years of general counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is accessible and affordable to people who need it.
(03) 8658 2101 View (03) 8658 2101
Photo of Joanne Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Joanne Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist with experience working in public and private mental health settings. I primarily work with children and adolescents using a systemic approach of involving parents where appropriate. My work with children incorporates play and considers their developmental age. I also offer therapeutic interventions to individual adults and families. I enjoy the dynamic nature of family and parent-child therapy, to help mobilise your individual and collective strengths that will promote deeper connectivity and improve family relationships.
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist with experience working in public and private mental health settings. I primarily work with children and adolescents using a systemic approach of involving parents where appropriate. My work with children incorporates play and considers their developmental age. I also offer therapeutic interventions to individual adults and families. I enjoy the dynamic nature of family and parent-child therapy, to help mobilise your individual and collective strengths that will promote deeper connectivity and improve family relationships.
(08) 9126 9091 View (08) 9126 9091
Photo of Magdalena Stanojcic, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Magdalena Stanojcic
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
Do you sometimes feel stuck in your life, struggling through your relationships or you feel anxious and depressed and cannot explain why? Would you like to discover more about yourself, find your personal truths and find clarity, resources, and direction in your life? Engaging in therapy can help you through this process, it can facilitate change and support you on your journey toward a meaningful and free life.
Do you sometimes feel stuck in your life, struggling through your relationships or you feel anxious and depressed and cannot explain why? Would you like to discover more about yourself, find your personal truths and find clarity, resources, and direction in your life? Engaging in therapy can help you through this process, it can facilitate change and support you on your journey toward a meaningful and free life.
(03) 8592 4808 View (03) 8592 4808
Photo of Mishma Kumar-Jonson - The Iceberg Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
The Iceberg Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
The Iceberg Foundation is a LGBTIQA+ owned and operated mental health service. We are dedicated to providing an understanding, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to those seeking support. Our aim is to provide a safe space for people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life to work on and through their past, present and future. ​ At The Iceberg Foundation, we strive to work in an intersectional manner, recognising and respecting people's individual lived and living experiences. We believe that everyone deserves high quality care and we strive to provide the best possible mental health services to the people we work with
The Iceberg Foundation is a LGBTIQA+ owned and operated mental health service. We are dedicated to providing an understanding, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to those seeking support. Our aim is to provide a safe space for people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life to work on and through their past, present and future. ​ At The Iceberg Foundation, we strive to work in an intersectional manner, recognising and respecting people's individual lived and living experiences. We believe that everyone deserves high quality care and we strive to provide the best possible mental health services to the people we work with
(03) 8338 4427 View (03) 8338 4427
Photo of Benjamin Croot, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Benjamin Croot
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
I would love to work who is open to personal growth an introspection. I love diving deep and seeing people discover new things about themselves. I enjoy working with people that can engage openly with difficult topics. I also love ensuring that sessions can be fun, engaging and light-hearted from time to time. Seeing people grow, change and learn about themselves is the driving force behind why i do what i do.
I would love to work who is open to personal growth an introspection. I love diving deep and seeing people discover new things about themselves. I enjoy working with people that can engage openly with difficult topics. I also love ensuring that sessions can be fun, engaging and light-hearted from time to time. Seeing people grow, change and learn about themselves is the driving force behind why i do what i do.
0412 760 311 View 0412 760 311
Photo of Lauren Breen (The Iceberg Foundation), Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Lauren Breen (The Iceberg Foundation)
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
Hi there, my name is Lauren (she/her). I am a genuine and compassionate counsellor that believes in your capacity for connection, growth and positive change. I support individuals to increase self-awareness and improve wellbeing by assisting them to identify their strengths and values, and build confidence and motivation to navigate psychological and systemic barriers. I work from a trauma-informed, person-centred, and social justice framework which means that I strive to honour, respect and affirm your unique identity and the way you move through the world.
Hi there, my name is Lauren (she/her). I am a genuine and compassionate counsellor that believes in your capacity for connection, growth and positive change. I support individuals to increase self-awareness and improve wellbeing by assisting them to identify their strengths and values, and build confidence and motivation to navigate psychological and systemic barriers. I work from a trauma-informed, person-centred, and social justice framework which means that I strive to honour, respect and affirm your unique identity and the way you move through the world.
(03) 8594 0105 View (03) 8594 0105
Photo of Mish Kumar-Jonson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Mish Kumar-Jonson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I love supporting BIPOC, neurodivergent and LGBTIQA+ folks to navigate through a range of traumas and distress such as intergenerational, personal or community traumas. People are often curious about how their body might hold onto emotions, feelings, memories or experiences and how these manifest in everyday interactions both internally and externally which I support them to explore. Folks who are a great fit for me are attempting to bring healing and understanding to difficult moments in their life in a way that allows space for peace and calm in both the body and mind
I love supporting BIPOC, neurodivergent and LGBTIQA+ folks to navigate through a range of traumas and distress such as intergenerational, personal or community traumas. People are often curious about how their body might hold onto emotions, feelings, memories or experiences and how these manifest in everyday interactions both internally and externally which I support them to explore. Folks who are a great fit for me are attempting to bring healing and understanding to difficult moments in their life in a way that allows space for peace and calm in both the body and mind
(03) 8592 7434 View (03) 8592 7434
Photo of Marie Vakakis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Marie Vakakis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
(03) 8613 3424 View (03) 8613 3424
Photo of Edy Xie, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Edy Xie
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
I am a registered psychologist with an immigrant background, having grown up in Australia. I understand the challenges of navigating mental health support and the confusion that can come with finding the right therapist. My approach prioritises honesty, being upfront while maintaining rapport and creating a safe, supportive space for clients.
I am a registered psychologist with an immigrant background, having grown up in Australia. I understand the challenges of navigating mental health support and the confusion that can come with finding the right therapist. My approach prioritises honesty, being upfront while maintaining rapport and creating a safe, supportive space for clients.
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Photo of Bettina (Betty) Joy Revens - Sonder Counselling Services, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Sonder Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My areas of interest revolve around the impacts of early trauma, various grief, and loss experiences and life transitions. Which may impact the everyday functioning of an individual. Having the opportunity to discuss these experiences, the complexities of life transitions and/or unresolved grief and loss and how you have been impacted. At times, we all experience stress, and, anxiety, which can create depressive symptoms. This is extremely relevant at this time due to COVID-19. It is scary, it is unknown territory and we are all going through the same fears. Counsellors can support you through this.
My areas of interest revolve around the impacts of early trauma, various grief, and loss experiences and life transitions. Which may impact the everyday functioning of an individual. Having the opportunity to discuss these experiences, the complexities of life transitions and/or unresolved grief and loss and how you have been impacted. At times, we all experience stress, and, anxiety, which can create depressive symptoms. This is extremely relevant at this time due to COVID-19. It is scary, it is unknown territory and we are all going through the same fears. Counsellors can support you through this.
(08) 9126 9072 View (08) 9126 9072
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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.