Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Footscray, VIC

Photo of Mary Ta, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mary Ta
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
I'm a Clinical / 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 a Clinical / 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 Stephanie Heinemann, Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Stephanie Heinemann
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Footscray, VIC 3011
Stephanie enjoys working with teenagers, adults, and older adults 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 teenagers, adults, and older adults 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 Bandai Choi, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bandai Choi
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Footscray, VIC 3011
Are you feeling overwhelmed by complex trauma or navigating life as a neurodivergent adult?
I provide a structured, collaborative approach anchored in evidence-based care. My clinical focus includes EMDR and ACT for complex trauma, alongside formalized, neuro-affirming diagnostic evaluations for Adult ADHD and Autism ( ASD). I also offer culturally responsive bilingual therapy in fluent English, native Cantonese, and Mandarin.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by complex trauma or navigating life as a neurodivergent adult?
I provide a structured, collaborative approach anchored in evidence-based care. My clinical focus includes EMDR and ACT for complex trauma, alongside formalized, neuro-affirming diagnostic evaluations for Adult ADHD and Autism ( ASD). I also offer culturally responsive bilingual therapy in fluent English, native Cantonese, and Mandarin.
(03) 8771 4314 View (03) 8771 4314
Photo of Annabel Chan, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Annabel Chan
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Online Only
You might be neurodivergent and queer (or neuroqueer), part of poly/ENM or kink communities, or a sex-worker seeking care that doesn’t judge or pathologise.
I offer trauma-informed, attachment-based, neurodiversity-affirming therapy for adults seeking clarity and connection. My approach integrates psychological science with lived understanding of neuroqueer experience, ENM, kink and sex-work contexts. We build skills, insight, and self-trust at a pace that suits you.
You might be neurodivergent and queer (or neuroqueer), part of poly/ENM or kink communities, or a sex-worker seeking care that doesn’t judge or pathologise.
I offer trauma-informed, attachment-based, neurodiversity-affirming therapy for adults seeking clarity and connection. My approach integrates psychological science with lived understanding of neuroqueer experience, ENM, kink and sex-work contexts. We build skills, insight, and self-trust at a pace that suits you.
0413 887 975 View 0413 887 975
Photo of Kiri Tsalparos, Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Kiri Tsalparos
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
I specialise in comprehensive psychological assessments, including ASD and ADHD assessments for children and adults, as well as cognitive assessments for NDIS and educational settings.
I equally enjoy both the forensic work and working with children. I ensure all my work is within the best practice principles and stay on top of current research and trends.
I specialise in comprehensive psychological assessments, including ASD and ADHD assessments for children and adults, as well as cognitive assessments for NDIS and educational settings.
I equally enjoy both the forensic work and working with children. I ensure all my work is within the best practice principles and stay on top of current research and trends.
(03) 9000 0286 View (03) 9000 0286
Photo of Dr Arran Rose, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
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
Photo of Daniela Dusanovic, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Daniela Dusanovic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
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) 7302 0617 View (03) 7302 0617
Photo of Amy Russell, Social Worker, AASW
Amy Russell
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I support adults navigating Autism, ADHD, anxiety, burnout, masking, identity questions, workplace stress, grief and life transitions.
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.
I support adults navigating Autism, ADHD, anxiety, burnout, masking, identity questions, workplace stress, grief and life transitions.
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
Photo of Sorcha Yelland, Counsellor, MA, AThR
Sorcha Yelland
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Footscray, VIC 3011
I'm Sorcha, an Art Therapist and Counselor who works with adults, adolescents, children and families. I use somatic, expressive and trauma-informed approaches to growth and healing. I use both talk therapy as well as art therapy: using drawing, painting, ceramics, textiles poetry, creative writing, and other modalities to assist with emotional expression, the exploration of inner worlds and accessing flow states. My approach is client-centered, I shape treatments collaboratively with my clients. I believe in using the systematic and structural to understand distress trauma, and conflict.
I'm Sorcha, an Art Therapist and Counselor who works with adults, adolescents, children and families. I use somatic, expressive and trauma-informed approaches to growth and healing. I use both talk therapy as well as art therapy: using drawing, painting, ceramics, textiles poetry, creative writing, and other modalities to assist with emotional expression, the exploration of inner worlds and accessing flow states. My approach is client-centered, I shape treatments collaboratively with my clients. I believe in using the systematic and structural to understand distress trauma, and conflict.
(03) 8338 4196 View (03) 8338 4196
Photo of Joyce Joyce - Joyce, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Joyce
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
Many of her clients identify as neurodivergent or have experienced complex trauma.
Joyce uses approaches such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, and positive behaviour support to help clients process trauma, manage anxiety, and build skills to navigate daily life with more ease and self-compassion. Her focus is on practical, person-centred strategies that honour each client’s unique needs and pace.
Many of her clients identify as neurodivergent or have experienced complex trauma.
Joyce uses approaches such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, and positive behaviour support to help clients process trauma, manage anxiety, and build skills to navigate daily life with more ease and self-compassion. Her focus is on practical, person-centred strategies that honour each client’s unique needs and pace.
1300 380 357 View 1300 380 357
Photo of Mish Kumar-Jonson, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Mish Kumar-Jonson
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
1 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.
As a non-binary, queer, neurodivergent and disabled plural, I bring my own living and lived experience to my supporting people and their stories. Also as an accredited EMDR clinician, mental health social worker and trauma informed yoga practitioner, I am able to hold space for people, their identities, bodies and histories compassionately
I love supporting BIPOC, neurodivergent and LGBTIQA+ folks to navigate through a range of traumas and distress such as intergenerational, personal or community traumas.
As a non-binary, queer, neurodivergent and disabled plural, I bring my own living and lived experience to my supporting people and their stories. Also as an accredited EMDR clinician, mental health social worker and trauma informed yoga practitioner, I am able to hold space for people, their identities, bodies and histories compassionately
(03) 8592 7434 View (03) 8592 7434
Photo of Marie Vakakis, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Marie Vakakis
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
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 Magdalena Stanojcic, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Magdalena Stanojcic
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
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 Felix Perigrie, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Felix Perigrie
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
2 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
I work with neurodivergent, LGBTIQA+, and other marginalised folks who are feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and burnt out.
People come to me for therapy that is curious, non-judgemental, and respects their expertise in their own life. You’re more than your bad days or worst moments. You deserve a space to unravel the self-beliefs and stories holding you back, and explore what you value - in yourself, and your life.
I work with neurodivergent, LGBTIQA+, and other marginalised folks who are feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and burnt out.
People come to me for therapy that is curious, non-judgemental, and respects their expertise in their own life. You’re more than your bad days or worst moments. You deserve a space to unravel the self-beliefs and stories holding you back, and explore what you value - in yourself, and your life.
(03) 8592 9249 View (03) 8592 9249
Photo of Nathan Smith, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Nathan Smith
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
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 Callista Goh, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Callista Goh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
I work with a variety of presentations, but hold special interests in PTSD, Autism and ADHD, Anxiety & Depression.
I am a queer-identifying registered psychologist, dedicated to providing trauma-informed, evidence-based care tailored to the unique needs & strengths of each client. I am committed to fostering strong therapeutic relationships to help clients lead more authentic & fulfilling lives. I understand how difficult it is to navigate the mental healthcare system and to find the right therapist, especially if you are Neurodiverse, Queer and/or from a Culturally Diverse background. In therapy, I use both my clinical & lived experience to inform my process & tailor my approach with each individual client's needs and unique context in mind.
I work with a variety of presentations, but hold special interests in PTSD, Autism and ADHD, Anxiety & Depression.
I am a queer-identifying registered psychologist, dedicated to providing trauma-informed, evidence-based care tailored to the unique needs & strengths of each client. I am committed to fostering strong therapeutic relationships to help clients lead more authentic & fulfilling lives. I understand how difficult it is to navigate the mental healthcare system and to find the right therapist, especially if you are Neurodiverse, Queer and/or from a Culturally Diverse background. In therapy, I use both my clinical & lived experience to inform my process & tailor my approach with each individual client's needs and unique context in mind.
(02) 5016 3990 View (02) 5016 3990
Photo of Sophie Manente, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Sophie Manente
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
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 help make things better for you. We'll look at more than just your symptoms; we'll look at your life experiences, your relationships, your family & ancestral history, social & 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 supporting you to get 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 help make things better for you. We'll look at more than just your symptoms; we'll look at your life experiences, your relationships, your family & ancestral history, social & 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 supporting you to get 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 Vaishnavi Murugan, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Vaishnavi Murugan
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Online Only
My ideal clients are adults, particularly individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds who may be navigating identity, family expectations, and life transitions. This may include those who have taken on significant responsibility within their families, often feeling the pressure to hold everything together, break generational patterns, or manage complex family dynamics. I am also passionate about working with parents, helping them understand their parenting styles and supporting them on their parenting journey.
My ideal clients are adults, particularly individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds who may be navigating identity, family expectations, and life transitions. This may include those who have taken on significant responsibility within their families, often feeling the pressure to hold everything together, break generational patterns, or manage complex family dynamics. I am also passionate about working with parents, helping them understand their parenting styles and supporting them on their parenting journey.
0412 422 042 View 0412 422 042
Photo of Brit Harper, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Brit Harper
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
Following your autism assessment, I can provide you with a summary letter or comprehensive report, depending on your needs.
I offer a neuroaffirming autism assessment service for adults (aged 18 and over). I aim to help people understand their neurotype to help them to look at their past through a more compassionate lens, and see new possibilities for their future. Please note I am not seeing clients for ongoing therapy at this time; my availability is for assessment only.
Following your autism assessment, I can provide you with a summary letter or comprehensive report, depending on your needs.
I offer a neuroaffirming autism assessment service for adults (aged 18 and over). I aim to help people understand their neurotype to help them to look at their past through a more compassionate lens, and see new possibilities for their future. Please note I am not seeing clients for ongoing therapy at this time; my availability is for assessment only.
(03) 9381 7801 View (03) 9381 7801
Photo of Natalie Susan Burfurd - Heart and Hope Counselling, Social Worker, AMHSW
Heart and Hope Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
Footscray, VIC 3011
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Ballarat and Footscray areas as well as online. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over thirty years of 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 affordable to people who need it.
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Ballarat and Footscray areas as well as online. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over thirty years of 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 affordable to people who need it.
(03) 8658 2101 View (03) 8658 2101

See more therapy options for Footscray

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.