Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Mernda

Photo of Kirsten Perrins, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kirsten Perrins
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Kirsten's specific areas of interest include autism, ADHD, trauma and Eating Disorders.
Kirsten is a sensitive, empathic, and compassionate therapist, who works from a position of neurodivergent lived-experience when supporting clients. She works alongside trainee therapy dog Atka to provide neuroaffirming assessment and support. Kirsten is playful, quirky, and loves to involve toys, fidgets and squishmallows into her work!
Kirsten's specific areas of interest include autism, ADHD, trauma and Eating Disorders.
Kirsten is a sensitive, empathic, and compassionate therapist, who works from a position of neurodivergent lived-experience when supporting clients. She works alongside trainee therapy dog Atka to provide neuroaffirming assessment and support. Kirsten is playful, quirky, and loves to involve toys, fidgets and squishmallows into her work!
(03) 8400 0307 View (03) 8400 0307
Photo of Rebecca Harris, Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Rebecca Harris
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy working with a diverse range of people. My approach brings together mind, body, emotion, and spirit, utilising a range of approaches and interventions such as: Polyvagal theory; somatic psychotherapy; cognitive approaches, mindfulness, and EMDR. I meet clients where they are at, regardless of situation, age, goals or struggles. I believe that each individual is the expert in their own lives and has within them the capacity for growth and healing, but I know that sometimes it can be helpful to have someone walking alongside, supporting the development of the insights and changes that lead to improved wellbeing.
I enjoy working with a diverse range of people. My approach brings together mind, body, emotion, and spirit, utilising a range of approaches and interventions such as: Polyvagal theory; somatic psychotherapy; cognitive approaches, mindfulness, and EMDR. I meet clients where they are at, regardless of situation, age, goals or struggles. I believe that each individual is the expert in their own lives and has within them the capacity for growth and healing, but I know that sometimes it can be helpful to have someone walking alongside, supporting the development of the insights and changes that lead to improved wellbeing.
(03) 8400 0272 View (03) 8400 0272
Photo of Megan O'Connor - Living and Learning Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Living and Learning Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I am currently accepting new clients. I am a warm and non judgemental psychologist who helps clients create meaningful change and action in their lives. I have particular interests in helping clients navigate difficulties with anxiety, stress, self-esteem, depression, transitions, and individual learning needs. I work with adolescents, parents and adults.
I am currently accepting new clients. I am a warm and non judgemental psychologist who helps clients create meaningful change and action in their lives. I have particular interests in helping clients navigate difficulties with anxiety, stress, self-esteem, depression, transitions, and individual learning needs. I work with adolescents, parents and adults.
(03) 8400 0198 View (03) 8400 0198
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 Alex Keegan - Green Lotus Well-being, Social Worker, AASW
Green Lotus Well-being
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
Hi! I'm Alex, I'm an experienced Clinical Social Worker. I am member of the AASW and hold a Bachelor of Social Work and am trained in many different counselling modalities such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Play Based Modalities and Lego Play.​ I have almost a decade of experience working with community members supporting them to achieve their mental health and well-being goals. At Green Lotus Wellbeing, I specialise in providing compassionate counselling services for anxiety disorders, depression, grief, loss, and infertility. Sessions start at $140 for online and $150 in person.
Hi! I'm Alex, I'm an experienced Clinical Social Worker. I am member of the AASW and hold a Bachelor of Social Work and am trained in many different counselling modalities such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Play Based Modalities and Lego Play.​ I have almost a decade of experience working with community members supporting them to achieve their mental health and well-being goals. At Green Lotus Wellbeing, I specialise in providing compassionate counselling services for anxiety disorders, depression, grief, loss, and infertility. Sessions start at $140 for online and $150 in person.
(03) 8104 9691 View (03) 8104 9691
Photo of Madiha Abid, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Madiha Abid
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
In addition to therapy, I provide comprehensive Autism, ADHD, and educational assessments for children and adults.
Hi there, I’m passionate about supporting children, young people, and their families as they navigate the challenges that come with growing up. I use a customised, evidence-based approach that provides psychoeducation at each step and involves other care team members to ensure holistic and consistent support. My sessions offer a warm and nurturing space where we work together to understand and manage difficulties while building on existing strengths. I also have experience working with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities and offer support in Urdu for families who wish to gain a clearer understanding about thier child.
In addition to therapy, I provide comprehensive Autism, ADHD, and educational assessments for children and adults.
Hi there, I’m passionate about supporting children, young people, and their families as they navigate the challenges that come with growing up. I use a customised, evidence-based approach that provides psychoeducation at each step and involves other care team members to ensure holistic and consistent support. My sessions offer a warm and nurturing space where we work together to understand and manage difficulties while building on existing strengths. I also have experience working with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities and offer support in Urdu for families who wish to gain a clearer understanding about thier child.
(03) 7302 2365 View (03) 7302 2365
Damien Gafforini
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I work with children and young people who have behavioural and emotional difficulties and developmental disorders such as ASD and ADHD.
I have 20 years of counselling experience. With degree’s in Psychology, Social Work and Child Psychotherapy. I provide specialised supports for clients who have complex trauma through the use of such tools as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Neurofeedback, QEEG and trauma therapy. I also provide Couples Counselling.
I work with children and young people who have behavioural and emotional difficulties and developmental disorders such as ASD and ADHD.
I have 20 years of counselling experience. With degree’s in Psychology, Social Work and Child Psychotherapy. I provide specialised supports for clients who have complex trauma through the use of such tools as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Neurofeedback, QEEG and trauma therapy. I also provide Couples Counselling.
(03) 9068 6002 View (03) 9068 6002
Photo of Natascha Newton, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Natascha Newton
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I am driven by a genuine passion to make a lasting impact in the lives of my clients. Rise wellbeing's mission is to offer personalised, high-quality supports that truly meet individual needs, while giving back to the community with affordable and accessible services. We believe in the power of evidence-based, person-centred care, creating a safe, supportive space where clients can thrive. As a registered NDIS provider, we’re also able to work with NDIS participants, offering counselling services that empower you to navigate challenges and achieve meaningful outcomes.
I am driven by a genuine passion to make a lasting impact in the lives of my clients. Rise wellbeing's mission is to offer personalised, high-quality supports that truly meet individual needs, while giving back to the community with affordable and accessible services. We believe in the power of evidence-based, person-centred care, creating a safe, supportive space where clients can thrive. As a registered NDIS provider, we’re also able to work with NDIS participants, offering counselling services that empower you to navigate challenges and achieve meaningful outcomes.
(03) 8595 5028 View (03) 8595 5028
Photo of Ivana Kovacevic - Bloom in Life Psychotherapy and Counselling, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Bloom in Life Psychotherapy and Counselling
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
I specialise in working with NDIS participants with complex needs including PTSD, Autism, ADHD, BPD, ABI, Schizophrenia and intellectual Disability.
I work with clients from ages 12 to 65+ using a range of different modalities including CBT and DBT to support with anxiety, depression, low mood and stress, Relationships, Grief and loss, Trauma, Anger, Abuse, and Addiction I provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings.
I specialise in working with NDIS participants with complex needs including PTSD, Autism, ADHD, BPD, ABI, Schizophrenia and intellectual Disability.
I work with clients from ages 12 to 65+ using a range of different modalities including CBT and DBT to support with anxiety, depression, low mood and stress, Relationships, Grief and loss, Trauma, Anger, Abuse, and Addiction I provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings.
(03) 7302 2107 View (03) 7302 2107

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Chiu Lau, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Chiu Lau
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
From 2003, Chiu has worked with autistic people and their families. Since then, she's developed proficiency treating and supporting clients across the lifespan experiencing trauma, chronic pain & fatigue, loss & grief, anxiety & mood disorders and minority stress (eg. Autistic, ADHD, medically disabled, culturally diverse and trans & gender questioning persons). Clients describe Chiu as thorough, efficient, down-to-earth, and practical. She works with a strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centred lens, offering a no-BS, affirming approach grounded in evidence-based therapeutic modalities.
From 2003, Chiu has worked with autistic people and their families. Since then, she's developed proficiency treating and supporting clients across the lifespan experiencing trauma, chronic pain & fatigue, loss & grief, anxiety & mood disorders and minority stress (eg. Autistic, ADHD, medically disabled, culturally diverse and trans & gender questioning persons). Clients describe Chiu as thorough, efficient, down-to-earth, and practical. She works with a strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centred lens, offering a no-BS, affirming approach grounded in evidence-based therapeutic modalities.
0491 188 891 View 0491 188 891
Photo of Qi May Leong - Positive Mind Hub, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Positive Mind Hub
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Williams Landing, VIC 3027
Assessments include ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD) assessments.
We prioritise your needs, values, and preferences in a collaborative and supportive therapeutic environment. Our evidence-based treatments, backed by the latest research, are tailored to your unique needs.
Assessments include ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD) assessments.
We prioritise your needs, values, and preferences in a collaborative and supportive therapeutic environment. Our evidence-based treatments, backed by the latest research, are tailored to your unique needs.
(03) 9191 3567 View (03) 9191 3567
Photo of Maddison Harris, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Maddison Harris
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kilsyth, VIC 3137
Presentations that Maddison works with include the following: Autism (especially in girls and women), ADHD, Chronic illness, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Developmental trauma, Grief management, OCD, Perinatal and infant mental health, and life transitions.
Maddison is currently a qualified Clinical Psychologist Registrar. Maddison has experience working as a psychologist across a range of settings, including private practice, community health, and within schools. Modalities that Maddison is trained in include CBT, DBT, ACT, and Schema Therapy.
Presentations that Maddison works with include the following: Autism (especially in girls and women), ADHD, Chronic illness, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Developmental trauma, Grief management, OCD, Perinatal and infant mental health, and life transitions.
Maddison is currently a qualified Clinical Psychologist Registrar. Maddison has experience working as a psychologist across a range of settings, including private practice, community health, and within schools. Modalities that Maddison is trained in include CBT, DBT, ACT, and Schema Therapy.
(03) 8203 5398 View (03) 8203 5398
Photo of Dr Pauline Hall, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Pauline Hall
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Presentations commonly include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism and ADHD, often in the context of workplace or significant life stressors.
I provide psychological assessment, evidence-based treatment, and medico-legal reporting for adults with trauma, psychological injury, and complex mental health conditions. My expertise includes PTSD, workplace stress, mood and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and Autism/ADHD, supporting recovery, functional capacity, and clear clinical opinions.
Presentations commonly include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism and ADHD, often in the context of workplace or significant life stressors.
I provide psychological assessment, evidence-based treatment, and medico-legal reporting for adults with trauma, psychological injury, and complex mental health conditions. My expertise includes PTSD, workplace stress, mood and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and Autism/ADHD, supporting recovery, functional capacity, and clear clinical opinions.
(02) 9411 7837 View (02) 9411 7837
Photo of Alana Stewart, Counsellor, PACFA
Alana Stewart
Counsellor, PACFA
Mill Park, VIC 3082
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 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 Larney Jayne Lamers, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Larney Jayne Lamers
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kilsyth, VIC 3137
Waitlist for new clients
Larney is the clinic director at Inner Light Allied Health, where her ideal clients are neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan, along with their families and carers.
Larney supports children, teens, and young adults who are neurodivergent, including autistic, PDA, and ADHD profiles. She offers evidence-based, neuroaffirming therapy that is person-centred and strengths-focused. Using special interests, playful approaches like Dungeons & Dragons, and her therapy dog Mako, she helps clients feel safe and unerstood.
Larney is the clinic director at Inner Light Allied Health, where her ideal clients are neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan, along with their families and carers.
Larney supports children, teens, and young adults who are neurodivergent, including autistic, PDA, and ADHD profiles. She offers evidence-based, neuroaffirming therapy that is person-centred and strengths-focused. Using special interests, playful approaches like Dungeons & Dragons, and her therapy dog Mako, she helps clients feel safe and unerstood.
(03) 8203 5468 View (03) 8203 5468
Photo of El Byrne, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
El Byrne
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Carlton North, VIC 3054
Hi, I’m El (She/Her), a bubbly, queer and neurodivergent psychologist who has been working with people from all walks of life and corners of the world for some time.
El has worked with a variety of presentations including complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, critical incident response, pain management, and interpersonal relationship difficulties. She has a strong interest in the intersection of neurodiversity and complex trauma.
Hi, I’m El (She/Her), a bubbly, queer and neurodivergent psychologist who has been working with people from all walks of life and corners of the world for some time.
El has worked with a variety of presentations including complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, critical incident response, pain management, and interpersonal relationship difficulties. She has a strong interest in the intersection of neurodiversity and complex trauma.
(02) 9100 0596 View (02) 9100 0596
Photo of Yelka Saric, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Yelka Saric
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am currently offering assessment for Autism and ADHD, WPATH Trans Surgery Readiness assessment, as well as 1:1 therapy.
My name is Yelka, I am a psychologist and lead practitioner at Eccentric Minds - Psychology. As a psychologist, I practice in an authentically human way, which means you will see my personality, eccentricities, my house plants and my cat during sessions. I have experience working therapeutically with people from many different backgrounds, mental health concerns and life experiences in a client-centered way.
I am currently offering assessment for Autism and ADHD, WPATH Trans Surgery Readiness assessment, as well as 1:1 therapy.
My name is Yelka, I am a psychologist and lead practitioner at Eccentric Minds - Psychology. As a psychologist, I practice in an authentically human way, which means you will see my personality, eccentricities, my house plants and my cat during sessions. I have experience working therapeutically with people from many different backgrounds, mental health concerns and life experiences in a client-centered way.
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Photo of Carolyn Hartevelt - New Beginnings Psychology (Telehealth Clinic), Psychologist, PsyBA General
New Beginnings Psychology (Telehealth Clinic)
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
I work with anxiety disorders, stress management, Adult ADHD, ASD, PTSD, complex trauma, relationship and spiritual issues.
I also have qualifications and experience in Christian Counselling. I have worked in various community based settings, and now I am in Private Practice. I am trained in CBT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, Christian Therapy, Gottman Couple Therapy. I am caring, empathetic and respectful and provide a nonjudgemental approach to sessions.
I work with anxiety disorders, stress management, Adult ADHD, ASD, PTSD, complex trauma, relationship and spiritual issues.
I also have qualifications and experience in Christian Counselling. I have worked in various community based settings, and now I am in Private Practice. I am trained in CBT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, Christian Therapy, Gottman Couple Therapy. I am caring, empathetic and respectful and provide a nonjudgemental approach to sessions.
(02) 4307 6049 View (02) 4307 6049
Photo of Laura Parker, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Laura Parker
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Essendon, VIC 3040
I work with clients navigating stress, anxiety, grief, school challenges, ADHD, autism, and specific learning disorders.
I have completed a Masters in Psychology (Educational and Developmental), am a registered general psychologist, and an Educational and Developmental Psychology Registrar. Before becoming a psychologist, I was a teacher. I use a range of modalities, CBT, ACT, and trauma-informed approaches to support growth, wellbeing, and everyday challenges.
I work with clients navigating stress, anxiety, grief, school challenges, ADHD, autism, and specific learning disorders.
I have completed a Masters in Psychology (Educational and Developmental), am a registered general psychologist, and an Educational and Developmental Psychology Registrar. Before becoming a psychologist, I was a teacher. I use a range of modalities, CBT, ACT, and trauma-informed approaches to support growth, wellbeing, and everyday challenges.
0493 396 893 View 0493 396 893
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.