Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Mount Waverley

Photo of Barbara Kathleen Grabau - Play Heal Thrive Therapy, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Play Heal Thrive Therapy
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
With thirty years of experience working in primary education, my passion lies in working with children experiencing Autism Spectrum Disoder ( ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), language disorders, learnning disabilities, anxiety, depression
I am Barbara Grabau, Founder and Director of Play Heal Thrive Therapy. I have a Master's Degree in Counselling, am a qualified Play Therapist and a qualified Lego Therapy facilitator. I offer individual play therapy sessions for children aged 2 - 12 years old, Lego Therapy group sessions for children aged 5 - 15 years, and individual counselling for teenagers and adults. For those experiencing challenges in parenting, I also offer parent coaching sessions.
With thirty years of experience working in primary education, my passion lies in working with children experiencing Autism Spectrum Disoder ( ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), language disorders, learnning disabilities, anxiety, depression
I am Barbara Grabau, Founder and Director of Play Heal Thrive Therapy. I have a Master's Degree in Counselling, am a qualified Play Therapist and a qualified Lego Therapy facilitator. I offer individual play therapy sessions for children aged 2 - 12 years old, Lego Therapy group sessions for children aged 5 - 15 years, and individual counselling for teenagers and adults. For those experiencing challenges in parenting, I also offer parent coaching sessions.
(03) 7500 5626 View (03) 7500 5626
Photo of May Yeung - Metocha Play Therapy, MA
Metocha Play Therapy
Verified Verified
Serves Area
The challenges we address include tantrums and anxiety, self-harm, depression, ADHD, autism, speech and language difficulties, selective mutism, learning disabilities, conduct disorders, aggressive behaviors, post-traumatic stress, and the lasting effects of divorce, domestic violence, sexual abuse, withdrawn behavior, and multicultural transitions.
Our play therapy has achieved a success rate of over 95% within 3 to 24 months for individuals aged 2 to 80. We walk alongside our clients through every emotional, behavioral, and social challenge, uplifting them as they grow on their journey toward psychosocial well-being. We have supported clients from a rich mosaic of cultures spanning Asia, Oceania, Europe, and the Americas, helping them navigate a wide spectrum of emotional, behavioral, and social issues. Our website features uplifting success stories and heartfelt client testimonials that bring our methods to life, offering comfort and renewed hope.
The challenges we address include tantrums and anxiety, self-harm, depression, ADHD, autism, speech and language difficulties, selective mutism, learning disabilities, conduct disorders, aggressive behaviors, post-traumatic stress, and the lasting effects of divorce, domestic violence, sexual abuse, withdrawn behavior, and multicultural transitions.
Our play therapy has achieved a success rate of over 95% within 3 to 24 months for individuals aged 2 to 80. We walk alongside our clients through every emotional, behavioral, and social challenge, uplifting them as they grow on their journey toward psychosocial well-being. We have supported clients from a rich mosaic of cultures spanning Asia, Oceania, Europe, and the Americas, helping them navigate a wide spectrum of emotional, behavioral, and social issues. Our website features uplifting success stories and heartfelt client testimonials that bring our methods to life, offering comfort and renewed hope.
(03) 7500 5930 View (03) 7500 5930
Photo of Melissa Yuhui Wong, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Melissa Yuhui Wong
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
Although my specialty is working with neurodivergent individuals, I also provide psychotherapy and treatment to all clients wanting to deal with various issues affecting them.
You may be struggling with anxiety and/or depression. You may be experiencing a number of difficulties which require a psychological evaluation to find clarity; perhaps a diagnosis and recommendations for strategies to deal with your problems.
Although my specialty is working with neurodivergent individuals, I also provide psychotherapy and treatment to all clients wanting to deal with various issues affecting them.
You may be struggling with anxiety and/or depression. You may be experiencing a number of difficulties which require a psychological evaluation to find clarity; perhaps a diagnosis and recommendations for strategies to deal with your problems.
(03) 9034 8472 View (03) 9034 8472
Photo of Dr Andrea Sadusky, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Dr Andrea Sadusky
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
Hi, I’m Andrea. I feel incredibly privileged to support people through the ups and downs of life. No one makes it through without facing pain, frustration, anxiety, or uncertainty. But these challenges can be a doorway to growth. In our work together, I’ll help you explore what matters most, navigate the tough moments, and move toward a life that feels more joyful, meaningful, and aligned with your values. Whether you're feeling stuck, burnt out, or at a crossroads, you don’t have to go it alone.
Hi, I’m Andrea. I feel incredibly privileged to support people through the ups and downs of life. No one makes it through without facing pain, frustration, anxiety, or uncertainty. But these challenges can be a doorway to growth. In our work together, I’ll help you explore what matters most, navigate the tough moments, and move toward a life that feels more joyful, meaningful, and aligned with your values. Whether you're feeling stuck, burnt out, or at a crossroads, you don’t have to go it alone.
(03) 7500 5839 View (03) 7500 5839
Photo of Wren Jablonka, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Wren Jablonka
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
Wren loves working with adolescents and young adults to both identify strengths and overcome challenges. With adolescents, Wren strives to create a safe space that promotes autonomy and empowerment, allowing for exploration and growth. Some specific areas Wren is passionate about include anxiety, mood, LGBTQIA+ clients, and neurodiversity.
Wren loves working with adolescents and young adults to both identify strengths and overcome challenges. With adolescents, Wren strives to create a safe space that promotes autonomy and empowerment, allowing for exploration and growth. Some specific areas Wren is passionate about include anxiety, mood, LGBTQIA+ clients, and neurodiversity.
(03) 8771 5224 View (03) 8771 5224
Photo of David Williamson - Karinya Counselling Centre, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Karinya Counselling Centre
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
Our counsellors will be able to assist you with many issues including: grief and loss, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Karinya offers high quality professional counselling services to anyone regardless of race, gender, lifestyle, religion, or status.
Our counsellors will be able to assist you with many issues including: grief and loss, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Karinya offers high quality professional counselling services to anyone regardless of race, gender, lifestyle, religion, or status.
(03) 7500 5902 View (03) 7500 5902
Photo of Magdalen Ser, Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Magdalen Ser
Social Worker, MSc, AMHSW
Serves Area
Have you spent years trying to understand yourself, yet still find yourself caught in the same emotional patterns or relationship difficulties? Perhaps you've gained valuable insight through previous therapy, yet something still feels stuck. When insight alone hasn't been been enough, it is often because the effects of trauma are reflected not only in how we think, but also in the protective ways our mind and nervous system have learned to respond.
Have you spent years trying to understand yourself, yet still find yourself caught in the same emotional patterns or relationship difficulties? Perhaps you've gained valuable insight through previous therapy, yet something still feels stuck. When insight alone hasn't been been enough, it is often because the effects of trauma are reflected not only in how we think, but also in the protective ways our mind and nervous system have learned to respond.
(03) 9994 1795 View (03) 9994 1795
Photo of Belinda Xagremenakos - Be Ok Therapy Services, Social Worker, AMHSW
Be Ok Therapy Services
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I offer compassionate, confidential counselling, with evidence-based therapy tailored to your needs. I provide a calm, supportive space where you can explore what’s going on, feel heard, and work toward meaningful change — whether you're struggling with anxiety, low mood, stress, trauma, relationships, or life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your needs. I draw on evidence-based therapies such as CBT, ACT, DBT, mindfulness, Schema therapy and trauma-informed practice, and I work in a way that’s respectful, practical and focused on your strengths.
I offer compassionate, confidential counselling, with evidence-based therapy tailored to your needs. I provide a calm, supportive space where you can explore what’s going on, feel heard, and work toward meaningful change — whether you're struggling with anxiety, low mood, stress, trauma, relationships, or life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your needs. I draw on evidence-based therapies such as CBT, ACT, DBT, mindfulness, Schema therapy and trauma-informed practice, and I work in a way that’s respectful, practical and focused on your strengths.
(03) 8771 4574 View (03) 8771 4574
Photo of Kim Dang, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Kim Dang
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Kim is a registered psychologist with over 10 years of experience delivering therapy and assessments to diverse populations across the lifespan. She utilises Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based modalities to help individuals meet their unique mental health goals.
Kim is a registered psychologist with over 10 years of experience delivering therapy and assessments to diverse populations across the lifespan. She utilises Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based modalities to help individuals meet their unique mental health goals.
0490 022 973 View 0490 022 973
Photo of Sarah Morsi - Wander & Wonder Counselling ( Animal assisted), Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Wander & Wonder Counselling ( Animal assisted)
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I also bring experience working with dual diagnosis and neurodivergent clients.
At Wander and Wonder Counselling, I work to support adults who are sober, trying to get sober, or rebuilding life after addiction. Many people find that even when substance use stops, old emotional patterns remain — my work focuses on gently understanding and changing those patterns to support long-term sobriety. I work with dual diagnosis, including addiction alongside anxiety, low mood, trauma, burnout, and life transitions. Sessions are paced, collaborative, and grounded in self-compassion. I also offer walk-and-talk sessions and animal-assisted therapy for clients who prefer a more natural, embodied approach.
I also bring experience working with dual diagnosis and neurodivergent clients.
At Wander and Wonder Counselling, I work to support adults who are sober, trying to get sober, or rebuilding life after addiction. Many people find that even when substance use stops, old emotional patterns remain — my work focuses on gently understanding and changing those patterns to support long-term sobriety. I work with dual diagnosis, including addiction alongside anxiety, low mood, trauma, burnout, and life transitions. Sessions are paced, collaborative, and grounded in self-compassion. I also offer walk-and-talk sessions and animal-assisted therapy for clients who prefer a more natural, embodied approach.
0488 989 956 View 0488 989 956
Photo of Xue Yuki Mei, Counsellor, PACFA
Xue Yuki Mei
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a neurodivergent (AuDHD) & queer counsellor who is committed to providing a safe & nonjudgmental (shame-free) space for all genders, identities, neurotypes, and bodies.
My special interests are working with late/adult-diagnosed neurodivergent individuals, people who'd like support in navigating the mental health system, people who feel like an outsider or lack a sense of belonging, people who feel marginalised due to their identity (identities), and people who struggle with complex mental health needs.
I am a neurodivergent (AuDHD) & queer counsellor who is committed to providing a safe & nonjudgmental (shame-free) space for all genders, identities, neurotypes, and bodies.
My special interests are working with late/adult-diagnosed neurodivergent individuals, people who'd like support in navigating the mental health system, people who feel like an outsider or lack a sense of belonging, people who feel marginalised due to their identity (identities), and people who struggle with complex mental health needs.
(03) 7500 5903 View (03) 7500 5903
Photo of Jianming Zhu, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jianming Zhu
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
0438 188 683 View 0438 188 683

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sophie Georgeson, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sophie Georgeson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Sophie supports clients with anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, big emotions, life changes, coping with chronic illness, relationships, grief / loss, identity and meaning challenges, learning difficulties, managing differences in executive functioning and sensory differences, neurodivergent burnout.
Sophie is a warm and authentic Psychologist who is collaborative and transparent, providing validation and empathy and working in an evidence-based and trauma-informed way. Sophie's goal is to make you feel safe, supported, and give you a sense of agency. Sophie seeks ongoing feedback, adapts to what a person needs, and has an integrative approach.
Sophie supports clients with anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, big emotions, life changes, coping with chronic illness, relationships, grief / loss, identity and meaning challenges, learning difficulties, managing differences in executive functioning and sensory differences, neurodivergent burnout.
Sophie is a warm and authentic Psychologist who is collaborative and transparent, providing validation and empathy and working in an evidence-based and trauma-informed way. Sophie's goal is to make you feel safe, supported, and give you a sense of agency. Sophie seeks ongoing feedback, adapts to what a person needs, and has an integrative approach.
View
Photo of Arzu Aksu Chapman, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Arzu Aksu Chapman
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client navigates the intricate landscape of neurodivergence—be it ADHD, Autism, or related experiences.
Tailored strategies for ADHD and Autism empower individuals, while couples benefit from a nuanced understanding of neurodivergent dynamics and LGBTQ+ relationship nuances. I offer a therapeutic haven where your uniqueness is not only acknowledged but celebrated, fostering resilience and authentic connection.
My ideal client navigates the intricate landscape of neurodivergence—be it ADHD, Autism, or related experiences.
Tailored strategies for ADHD and Autism empower individuals, while couples benefit from a nuanced understanding of neurodivergent dynamics and LGBTQ+ relationship nuances. I offer a therapeutic haven where your uniqueness is not only acknowledged but celebrated, fostering resilience and authentic connection.
(02) 8403 1928 View (02) 8403 1928
Photo of Natali Quintero - Natali Quintero - The Psychology Support Room, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Natali Quintero - The Psychology Support Room
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Online Only
If you or your young person in your care is feeling overwhelmed by emotions, struggling with anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, or finding it hard to adjust to life’s changes, you are not alone. Emotional challenges can impact focus, confidence, and daily routines, making it difficult to feel balanced or at ease.
If you or your young person in your care is feeling overwhelmed by emotions, struggling with anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, or finding it hard to adjust to life’s changes, you are not alone. Emotional challenges can impact focus, confidence, and daily routines, making it difficult to feel balanced or at ease.
(03) 5608 5921 View (03) 5608 5921
Photo of Tara Scott, Social Worker, AASW
Tara Scott
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Accredited Social Worker and Sex Therapist based in Magandjin/Brisbane and a proudly queer, non-binary, Autistic ADHD’er.
At Living Authentically Counselling, I provide LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming individual counselling services for folks seeking support with sexuality, gender identity and expression and neurodivergence. My personal values are self-determination, inclusion, acceptance, authenticity and kindness; and these show up in the way that I practice.
I am an Accredited Social Worker and Sex Therapist based in Magandjin/Brisbane and a proudly queer, non-binary, Autistic ADHD’er.
At Living Authentically Counselling, I provide LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming individual counselling services for folks seeking support with sexuality, gender identity and expression and neurodivergence. My personal values are self-determination, inclusion, acceptance, authenticity and kindness; and these show up in the way that I practice.
(07) 2100 4155 View (07) 2100 4155
Photo of Kiri Tsalparos, Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Kiri Tsalparos
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
West Footscray, VIC 3012
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 Shi Hui Lee - Altair Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA Endorsed
Altair Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA Endorsed
Burwood, VIC 3125
At Altair Psychology we respect and embrace diversity. Our team provide a safe and supportive space to accompany clients on their journey of discovery as they are guided to gain insight through curiosity and learn tools for growth and empowerment. Our experienced team has had the opportunity to work with many individuals to overcome life’s ups and downs, learn about themselves and flourish. Whether it is depression, anxiety, trauma, neurodevelopmental differences, learning challenges, or giftedness, our team will not hesitate to embark on the journey with you to build greater self-awareness, acceptance or obtain a formalised answer
At Altair Psychology we respect and embrace diversity. Our team provide a safe and supportive space to accompany clients on their journey of discovery as they are guided to gain insight through curiosity and learn tools for growth and empowerment. Our experienced team has had the opportunity to work with many individuals to overcome life’s ups and downs, learn about themselves and flourish. Whether it is depression, anxiety, trauma, neurodevelopmental differences, learning challenges, or giftedness, our team will not hesitate to embark on the journey with you to build greater self-awareness, acceptance or obtain a formalised answer
(03) 7500 5105 View (03) 7500 5105
Photo of Joanna Umney, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Joanna Umney
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Somerville, VIC 3912
Joanna finds that animal-therapy is particularly supportive for those with social-anxiety, autism, and depression.
Joanna has experience with working with adolescents, young adults, and adults. Drawing upon an empathic, client-centered approach, Joanna recognises the importance of working collaboratively to achieve a client’s goals. Joanna can assess, diagnose and treat clients who present with a diverse range of conditions.
Joanna finds that animal-therapy is particularly supportive for those with social-anxiety, autism, and depression.
Joanna has experience with working with adolescents, young adults, and adults. Drawing upon an empathic, client-centered approach, Joanna recognises the importance of working collaboratively to achieve a client’s goals. Joanna can assess, diagnose and treat clients who present with a diverse range of conditions.
(03) 5907 3299 View (03) 5907 3299
Photo of Lucy Walton, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Lucy Walton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Collingwood, VIC 3066
We may even end up doing an autism assessment, who knows!
Typically, my clients have tried the traditional methods of therapy that promote coping, but ultimately they feel stuck in a cycle of collapsing, then patching up and soldiering on. They may have received different diagnoses along the way, but nothing seems to quite capture their experience of life. They feel alone and like there is something deeply wrong with them. They struggle with a sense of self, and worry about what others might think of them. They are still hopeful that things can get better, but they don't know how to make it happen.
We may even end up doing an autism assessment, who knows!
Typically, my clients have tried the traditional methods of therapy that promote coping, but ultimately they feel stuck in a cycle of collapsing, then patching up and soldiering on. They may have received different diagnoses along the way, but nothing seems to quite capture their experience of life. They feel alone and like there is something deeply wrong with them. They struggle with a sense of self, and worry about what others might think of them. They are still hopeful that things can get better, but they don't know how to make it happen.
(03) 7037 6990 View (03) 7037 6990
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.