Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Lalor

Photo of Alana Stewart, Counsellor, PACFA
Alana Stewart
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Art Therapist, Counsellor, NDIS Provider. A safe, creative space to explore your emotions and life’s challenges. Supporting neurodivergence, complex trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness, disability, identity needs, depression and anxiety, complex family dynamics and more. I am committed to using a strengths-based, diversity-inclusive, trauma-informed approach. Sessions hosted at the Yellow Gum Art Therapy Studio with Evie the therapy dog.
Art Therapist, Counsellor, NDIS Provider. A safe, creative space to explore your emotions and life’s challenges. Supporting neurodivergence, complex trauma, grief and loss, chronic illness, disability, identity needs, depression and anxiety, complex family dynamics and more. I am committed to using a strengths-based, diversity-inclusive, trauma-informed approach. Sessions hosted at the Yellow Gum Art Therapy Studio with Evie the therapy dog.
(03) 8400 0787 View (03) 8400 0787
Photo of Carol Kernaghan - Mindful Wellbeing Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mindful Wellbeing Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
This includes but is not limited to anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, bullying, depression, intellectual disability, stress, trauma, anger, social skill development, self-esteem, life adjustments, and self-regulation.
I have been a psychologist for over 15 years and have experience in working with a diverse range of clients. I have worked within disability services, child and adolescent mental health services and the education department. I have experience in working with children, adolescents, families and adults on a range of emotional, behavioural, psycho-social and developmental concerns.
This includes but is not limited to anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, bullying, depression, intellectual disability, stress, trauma, anger, social skill development, self-esteem, life adjustments, and self-regulation.
I have been a psychologist for over 15 years and have experience in working with a diverse range of clients. I have worked within disability services, child and adolescent mental health services and the education department. I have experience in working with children, adolescents, families and adults on a range of emotional, behavioural, psycho-social and developmental concerns.
(03) 7302 2207 View (03) 7302 2207
Photo of Soorah Albatat, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Soorah Albatat
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Serves Area
Soorah is a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience in both the public and private mental health sectors. She is passionate about supporting individuals through life’s challenges by providing a safe and non-judgmental space for personal growth and healing. Soorah adopts a person-centered approach, ensuring that therapy is customized to meet each individual's unique needs. She prioritizes building a strong therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change in their lives.
Soorah is a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience in both the public and private mental health sectors. She is passionate about supporting individuals through life’s challenges by providing a safe and non-judgmental space for personal growth and healing. Soorah adopts a person-centered approach, ensuring that therapy is customized to meet each individual's unique needs. She prioritizes building a strong therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change in their lives.
(03) 7302 8861 View (03) 7302 8861
Photo of Lauren Pennacchia, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Lauren Pennacchia
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Lauren is a psychologist who works with adolescents and young adults. Lauren has extensive experience and has worked in hospital settings, a juvenile detention centre and private practice. She has a widespread of knowledge in diagnosis and treatment and aims to bring a warm, empathetic and collaborative approach to therapy. Lauren uses a range of therapeutic frameworks to tailor treatment to each individual. These frameworks include: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Client Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
Lauren is a psychologist who works with adolescents and young adults. Lauren has extensive experience and has worked in hospital settings, a juvenile detention centre and private practice. She has a widespread of knowledge in diagnosis and treatment and aims to bring a warm, empathetic and collaborative approach to therapy. Lauren uses a range of therapeutic frameworks to tailor treatment to each individual. These frameworks include: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Client Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
(03) 8400 0027 View (03) 8400 0027

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tania Rose, Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Tania Rose
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
5 Endorsed
Online Only
30+ yrs experience providing support for neurodivergent adults identifying as Autistic, ADHD or living with Tourettes through a neurodiversity-affirming lens, Australia-wide via Zoom.
Tania Rose is both clinically experienced and has lived-experience in neurodivergence, cultural inequality, and differ-ability/disability, recognising the social and human rights models of disability. Tania also supports those working professionally in the mental health sector as a clinical supervisor, educator and workplace wellbeing researcher.
30+ yrs experience providing support for neurodivergent adults identifying as Autistic, ADHD or living with Tourettes through a neurodiversity-affirming lens, Australia-wide via Zoom.
Tania Rose is both clinically experienced and has lived-experience in neurodivergence, cultural inequality, and differ-ability/disability, recognising the social and human rights models of disability. Tania also supports those working professionally in the mental health sector as a clinical supervisor, educator and workplace wellbeing researcher.
(02) 4708 9622 View (02) 4708 9622
Photo of Emma McIntosh, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Emma McIntosh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Others are neurodivergent or exploring this later in life, often after years of masking and holding themselves to neurotypical expectations.
I offer neuro-affirming, trauma-informed therapy for adults with anxiety (including health anxiety), trauma and complex PTSD, low self-esteem, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, and neurodivergence-related stressors like executive functioning differences or autistic burnout. I also offer autism and ADHD assessments for people aged 16+.
Others are neurodivergent or exploring this later in life, often after years of masking and holding themselves to neurotypical expectations.
I offer neuro-affirming, trauma-informed therapy for adults with anxiety (including health anxiety), trauma and complex PTSD, low self-esteem, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, and neurodivergence-related stressors like executive functioning differences or autistic burnout. I also offer autism and ADHD assessments for people aged 16+.
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Photo of Paula Garrido - Wellness Psychology Clinic (Telehealth Clinic), Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Wellness Psychology Clinic (Telehealth Clinic)
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
NDIS participants, we provide support focusing on capacity building, emotional wellbeing, and improving daily functioning. Our approach is respectful, flexible, and tailored to each participant’s individual goals and needs.
NDIS participants, we provide support focusing on capacity building, emotional wellbeing, and improving daily functioning. Our approach is respectful, flexible, and tailored to each participant’s individual goals and needs.
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Helen Salter
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Lilydale, VIC 3140
Assessments for children and teens
Assessments for children and teens
(03) 8771 5718 View (03) 8771 5718
Photo of Skye Balci - Atypical Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Atypical Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Hillside, VIC 3037
Also have great experience with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD and learning difficulties.
At our practice, we specialise in supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and adults through challenges related to autism, ADHD, behavioural issues, anxiety, depression, and more. We are committed to providing compassionate, tailored care that respects each individual’s unique needs. Our goal is to help clients navigate life’s transitions, build resilience, and develop the skills they need to thrive. With empathy and understanding, we work together to create positive, lasting change.
Also have great experience with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD and learning difficulties.
At our practice, we specialise in supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and adults through challenges related to autism, ADHD, behavioural issues, anxiety, depression, and more. We are committed to providing compassionate, tailored care that respects each individual’s unique needs. Our goal is to help clients navigate life’s transitions, build resilience, and develop the skills they need to thrive. With empathy and understanding, we work together to create positive, lasting change.
(03) 7302 2582 View (03) 7302 2582
Photo of Marta Arce Casas, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Marta Arce Casas
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Parkville, VIC 3052
They may be an adolescent or adult grappling with autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, burnout, identity issues, stress management, parenting support, or life transitions.
I specialize in a strength-based approach to support individuals with neurodiversity and mental health challenges. Using an array of therapies, I aim to empower adolescents and adults to embrace their uniqueness and live authentically.
They may be an adolescent or adult grappling with autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, burnout, identity issues, stress management, parenting support, or life transitions.
I specialize in a strength-based approach to support individuals with neurodiversity and mental health challenges. Using an array of therapies, I aim to empower adolescents and adults to embrace their uniqueness and live authentically.
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Photo of Nathanael Sobejko - Nathanael Sobejko (Mandurah Psychology), Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Nathanael Sobejko (Mandurah Psychology)
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am well versed to help with anxiety, depression, grief, interpersonal difficulties, autism, and am particularly interested in assisting with phobias and OCD presentations.
I have always had a heart and passion for working alongside people experiencing difficulties in their mental health. I have completed a Master of Psychology (Professional) degree and have extensive experience supporting adults and young people who have been through mental health difficulties including significant trauma and neglect. I have also worked within a school environment and I apply a scientist practitioner approach to referrals. Whether it be children, adolescents, adults or older adults alike, I will work collaboratively to establish goals and facilitate recovery and mental wellbeing.
I am well versed to help with anxiety, depression, grief, interpersonal difficulties, autism, and am particularly interested in assisting with phobias and OCD presentations.
I have always had a heart and passion for working alongside people experiencing difficulties in their mental health. I have completed a Master of Psychology (Professional) degree and have extensive experience supporting adults and young people who have been through mental health difficulties including significant trauma and neglect. I have also worked within a school environment and I apply a scientist practitioner approach to referrals. Whether it be children, adolescents, adults or older adults alike, I will work collaboratively to establish goals and facilitate recovery and mental wellbeing.
(08) 9515 9670 View (08) 9515 9670
Photo of Ruth Minkov, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Ruth Minkov
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Brunswick, VIC 3056
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
Photo of Dr Natalia Rusnac, Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Dr Natalia Rusnac
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Online Only
I am a multilingual AuDHD Clinical Psychologist with a special interest in providing neurodiversity-affirming psychotherapy to adults who are (or who believe they might be) autistic and/or ADHD.
Coping with life is not the same as being happy. My aim is to go beyond coping and help neurodivergent people access their true potential, so that they can build a vibrant life that suits their neurotype. I tend to work with my clients at a deeper level, by exploring emotions and unmet needs, as well as by processing past trauma for those who wish to do so.
I am a multilingual AuDHD Clinical Psychologist with a special interest in providing neurodiversity-affirming psychotherapy to adults who are (or who believe they might be) autistic and/or ADHD.
Coping with life is not the same as being happy. My aim is to go beyond coping and help neurodivergent people access their true potential, so that they can build a vibrant life that suits their neurotype. I tend to work with my clients at a deeper level, by exploring emotions and unmet needs, as well as by processing past trauma for those who wish to do so.
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Photo of Jay Channells, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jay Channells
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Jay works with young people and adults — from age 12 right through adulthood — navigating stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, identity, relationships, minority stress, ADHD, Autism, OCD, BPD, CPTSD, PTSD, Bipolar and Dissociative Disorders, PMDD, and chronic illness.
Jay integrates evidence-based approaches tailored to each person, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Compassion-Focussed Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, and Neurodivergence-Affirming Therapy.
Jay works with young people and adults — from age 12 right through adulthood — navigating stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, identity, relationships, minority stress, ADHD, Autism, OCD, BPD, CPTSD, PTSD, Bipolar and Dissociative Disorders, PMDD, and chronic illness.
Jay integrates evidence-based approaches tailored to each person, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Compassion-Focussed Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, and Neurodivergence-Affirming Therapy.
(02) 3821 1074 View (02) 3821 1074
Photo of Krysia Kostrz, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Krysia Kostrz
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I'm a neurodiversity-affirming psychologist, I'm neurodivergent & love working with people seeking to discover more about themselves.
My Therapy & Assessment services are thorough to ensure I learn about you, your history, & your experiences. I use a strengths-based, client-centred, approach to ensure neurodivergent voices are lifted & individuals are recognised for their unique strengths, while also acknowledging the adversity we face living in a neurotypical world.
I'm a neurodiversity-affirming psychologist, I'm neurodivergent & love working with people seeking to discover more about themselves.
My Therapy & Assessment services are thorough to ensure I learn about you, your history, & your experiences. I use a strengths-based, client-centred, approach to ensure neurodivergent voices are lifted & individuals are recognised for their unique strengths, while also acknowledging the adversity we face living in a neurotypical world.
(03) 4245 1035 View (03) 4245 1035
Photo of Vishnu Balaji, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Vishnu Balaji
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Mitcham, VIC 3132
As an Autistic ADHD clinician, Vishnu draws on both her professional expertise and lived experience to connect with her clients in a meaningful and authentic way.
Vishnu brings a thoughtful and collaborative approach to her practice. She holds dual Master's degrees in Health Psychology and Addiction Studies and has worked in mental health in various roles in India, Ireland, and now Australia. She provides neuro-affirming assessment and therapeutic services for clients of all ages, with a special focus on supporting children and parents.
As an Autistic ADHD clinician, Vishnu draws on both her professional expertise and lived experience to connect with her clients in a meaningful and authentic way.
Vishnu brings a thoughtful and collaborative approach to her practice. She holds dual Master's degrees in Health Psychology and Addiction Studies and has worked in mental health in various roles in India, Ireland, and now Australia. She provides neuro-affirming assessment and therapeutic services for clients of all ages, with a special focus on supporting children and parents.
(03) 8203 5252 View (03) 8203 5252
Photo of Anke Bezuidenhout, Psychologist, PsyBA General
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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Photo of Dayle Johnson - Calm Minds Clinic, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Calm Minds Clinic
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Welcome to Calm Minds Clinic, where your wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. Our clinicians have a vast amount of experience in treating a range of concerns, whether it be: depression, anxiety, personality, trauma, drug and alcohol or relationship issues that you're facing, we wish to support you in being a happier, healthier, you.
Welcome to Calm Minds Clinic, where your wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. Our clinicians have a vast amount of experience in treating a range of concerns, whether it be: depression, anxiety, personality, trauma, drug and alcohol or relationship issues that you're facing, we wish to support you in being a happier, healthier, you.
(03) 4233 6470 View (03) 4233 6470
Photo of Kodi Duruchukwu, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Prov
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
Photo of Luisa Franco, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Luisa Franco
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Melbourne, VIC 3004
I am a registered psychologist with over 15 years of international experience in clinical practice. I offer collaborative, evidence-based therapy for adolescents and adults, drawing on approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). My focus is on supporting clients through life’s challenging moments—when things feel overwhelming, uncertain, or emotionally difficult. I have a particular interest in emotional regulation, decision-making, neuropsychology, and supporting individuals in developing assertiveness and self-awareness aligned with their goals and personal values.
I am a registered psychologist with over 15 years of international experience in clinical practice. I offer collaborative, evidence-based therapy for adolescents and adults, drawing on approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). My focus is on supporting clients through life’s challenging moments—when things feel overwhelming, uncertain, or emotionally difficult. I have a particular interest in emotional regulation, decision-making, neuropsychology, and supporting individuals in developing assertiveness and self-awareness aligned with their goals and personal values.
(03) 7036 8795 x03 View (03) 7036 8795 x03
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.