Autism Psychologists and Therapists in Newport

Photo of Emma Rice, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Emma Rice
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Emma dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan with a wide range of presenting issues. Emma is passionate about creating a safe, non-judgemental and empowering environment and relationship, to allow clients to explore the difficulties that are arising in their lives and develop self-awareness and self-compassion. She aims to promote self-acceptance and positive change by drawing on individuals strengths, and helping them move towards living a rich, full and meaningful life.
Emma dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing of individuals across the lifespan with a wide range of presenting issues. Emma is passionate about creating a safe, non-judgemental and empowering environment and relationship, to allow clients to explore the difficulties that are arising in their lives and develop self-awareness and self-compassion. She aims to promote self-acceptance and positive change by drawing on individuals strengths, and helping them move towards living a rich, full and meaningful life.
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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 Nathan Gilbert, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Nathan Gilbert
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Newport, VIC 3015
I am passionate about supporting children and adolescents in developing effective ways of managing their emotions and thoughts, and in turn, their behaviours. Along with learning therapeutic self-regulation skills, clients learn more about their internal processes and why they can have the feelings and thoughts they do. This helps reinforce the theory and motivations behind self-regulation skills, and how they can help each client with their own unique difficulties and strengths!
I am passionate about supporting children and adolescents in developing effective ways of managing their emotions and thoughts, and in turn, their behaviours. Along with learning therapeutic self-regulation skills, clients learn more about their internal processes and why they can have the feelings and thoughts they do. This helps reinforce the theory and motivations behind self-regulation skills, and how they can help each client with their own unique difficulties and strengths!
(03) 8657 0192 View (03) 8657 0192
Photo of Vanessa Karagiannis, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Vanessa Karagiannis
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Newport, VIC 3015
Have you ever wondered why you keep repeating the same patterns, even when you know they're not serving you? Perhaps you're struggling with ADHD, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, emotional overwhelm or feeling like you're not living up to your potential. Maybe you're seeking support for your child and want to better understand what they're experiencing. You may have tried to make changes before, only to find yourself slipping back into old habits or feeling stuck. I believe meaningful change comes from understanding the underlying factors driving our thoughts, emotions and behaviours, not just managing symptoms.
Have you ever wondered why you keep repeating the same patterns, even when you know they're not serving you? Perhaps you're struggling with ADHD, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, emotional overwhelm or feeling like you're not living up to your potential. Maybe you're seeking support for your child and want to better understand what they're experiencing. You may have tried to make changes before, only to find yourself slipping back into old habits or feeling stuck. I believe meaningful change comes from understanding the underlying factors driving our thoughts, emotions and behaviours, not just managing symptoms.
(03) 8658 1579 View (03) 8658 1579
Photo of Joanne Cook, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Joanne Cook
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Newport, VIC 3015
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist. My dog, Blanche, is my trusted colleague, who offers animal assisted therapy. I specialise in child, adolescence and family therapy. Children learn through play which is the cornerstone of my evidence based therapeutic interventions. I offer therapy to adults and families who wish to explore relational patterns, heal trauma and mobilise strengths to enjoy deeper connections and improve family functioning. By cultivating a therapeutic relationship and using curiosity over judgment, I offer a space for you to think about and work towards change.
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist. My dog, Blanche, is my trusted colleague, who offers animal assisted therapy. I specialise in child, adolescence and family therapy. Children learn through play which is the cornerstone of my evidence based therapeutic interventions. I offer therapy to adults and families who wish to explore relational patterns, heal trauma and mobilise strengths to enjoy deeper connections and improve family functioning. By cultivating a therapeutic relationship and using curiosity over judgment, I offer a space for you to think about and work towards change.
(08) 9126 9091 View (08) 9126 9091
Photo of Natalie Bryson, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Natalie Bryson
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Serves Area
Hi! I'm Nat, a Provisional Psychologist with a background in teaching and education, yoga, and lived experience of chronic illness. I support teens and adults who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or navigating life's challenges with greater clarity and confidence. My approach is warm, collaborative, and evidence-based, creating a safe space where you can explore what's going on, build practical skills, and move towards meaningful, lasting change. I'd love to support you on your journey.
Hi! I'm Nat, a Provisional Psychologist with a background in teaching and education, yoga, and lived experience of chronic illness. I support teens and adults who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or navigating life's challenges with greater clarity and confidence. My approach is warm, collaborative, and evidence-based, creating a safe space where you can explore what's going on, build practical skills, and move towards meaningful, lasting change. I'd love to support you on your journey.
(03) 7302 2420 View (03) 7302 2420
Photo of Maree Nekich, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Maree Nekich
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
As a Clinical Psychologist with additional specialist training in Family Therapy Maree has undergone extensive training to help her understand, prevent and relieve distress. She has over 15yrs experience in the private & public mental health care industry where she has provided individual, couple and family therapy to clients aged 6–80yrs. Her approach respects that the needs of each client will be unique and can't be simplified by a generic diagnosis or treated in a generic way. Therefore, every client will be afforded the opportunity to be listened to deeply at their own pace and following an assessment offered tailored treatment.
As a Clinical Psychologist with additional specialist training in Family Therapy Maree has undergone extensive training to help her understand, prevent and relieve distress. She has over 15yrs experience in the private & public mental health care industry where she has provided individual, couple and family therapy to clients aged 6–80yrs. Her approach respects that the needs of each client will be unique and can't be simplified by a generic diagnosis or treated in a generic way. Therefore, every client will be afforded the opportunity to be listened to deeply at their own pace and following an assessment offered tailored treatment.
(03) 9111 2650 View (03) 9111 2650
Photo of Max von Sabler, Psychologist, PhD, FAPS
Max von Sabler
Psychologist, PhD, FAPS
Serves Area
I work with a variety of people including those suffering depression and anxiety, PTSD and complex trauma, personality disorders including borderline personality disorder, as well as dissociative disorders and complex mood conditions. I also work frequently with OCD and sexual addictions/disorders. My approach is holistic and focused on identifying your needs and goals, and how we can best achieve these together. I am a clinical psychologist and focus strongly on the assessment process - I believe it's important to establish exactly what may be happening so that we are on the same page. Treatment is always tailored to the individual
I work with a variety of people including those suffering depression and anxiety, PTSD and complex trauma, personality disorders including borderline personality disorder, as well as dissociative disorders and complex mood conditions. I also work frequently with OCD and sexual addictions/disorders. My approach is holistic and focused on identifying your needs and goals, and how we can best achieve these together. I am a clinical psychologist and focus strongly on the assessment process - I believe it's important to establish exactly what may be happening so that we are on the same page. Treatment is always tailored to the individual
(03) 8797 2095 View (03) 8797 2095
Photo of Dr Tanja Takala, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Tanja Takala
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am committed to providing gender and neurodivergent affirming care and creating a safe space for those who wish to explore their identities, cultivate self-compassion and feel empowered to live life as their most authentic selves.
I have over 14 years of clinical experience and am highly skilled at helping people with issues such as low mood, anxiety, PTSD, stress, low self esteem, grief and interpersonal challenges. I specialise in trauma-focused therapy and integrate a range of modalities to meet my clients’ needs, including EMDR, IFS, parts-work, psychodynamic therapy, ACT and CBT.
I am committed to providing gender and neurodivergent affirming care and creating a safe space for those who wish to explore their identities, cultivate self-compassion and feel empowered to live life as their most authentic selves.
I have over 14 years of clinical experience and am highly skilled at helping people with issues such as low mood, anxiety, PTSD, stress, low self esteem, grief and interpersonal challenges. I specialise in trauma-focused therapy and integrate a range of modalities to meet my clients’ needs, including EMDR, IFS, parts-work, psychodynamic therapy, ACT and CBT.
(03) 7003 2457 View (03) 7003 2457
Photo of Rosalie Bourne - MindfulNest Therapeutic Services, Social Worker, MA, AASW
MindfulNest Therapeutic Services
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Serves Area
MindfulNest Therapeutic Services is a specialised mental health and wellbeing service that sees babies, children and families from 0-15 years of age. We work with young children from 0-4 years who might have NDIS plans and need support with emotional regulation, stress, worry, sadness, trauma or adjusting the life stages and changes. We work with older children from 5-15 years who might also have NDIS plans or mental health care plans and need support with feelings of worry, sadness, fear or simply need a safe space to talk about life's challenges with a trust and qualified therapist. We also have an accredited therapy dog!
MindfulNest Therapeutic Services is a specialised mental health and wellbeing service that sees babies, children and families from 0-15 years of age. We work with young children from 0-4 years who might have NDIS plans and need support with emotional regulation, stress, worry, sadness, trauma or adjusting the life stages and changes. We work with older children from 5-15 years who might also have NDIS plans or mental health care plans and need support with feelings of worry, sadness, fear or simply need a safe space to talk about life's challenges with a trust and qualified therapist. We also have an accredited therapy dog!
(03) 9000 0643 View (03) 9000 0643
Photo of Bronwyn Dwyer, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bronwyn Dwyer
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Many of my clients come to therapy because they're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not quite like themselves. Others are looking to better understand long-standing patterns, improve their relationships, or navigate a difficult period in life. I work with adults experiencing concerns such as anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, eating disorders, and major life transitions.
Many of my clients come to therapy because they're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not quite like themselves. Others are looking to better understand long-standing patterns, improve their relationships, or navigate a difficult period in life. I work with adults experiencing concerns such as anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, eating disorders, and major life transitions.
0419 781 724 View 0419 781 724
Photo of Linda Taimre - The Galaxy Clinic, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
The Galaxy Clinic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I also work with neurodiverse young people, such as those with autism or ADHD, experiencing mental health difficulties.
My approach to therapy is warm, open, and honest, creating a space where young people can be themselves without judgement, even if they’re not sure who they are yet. I draw on evidence-based techniques including CBT, DBT, family therapy techniques, and play-based therapy, adapting them to the needs of whoever is in the room including parents/carers.
I also work with neurodiverse young people, such as those with autism or ADHD, experiencing mental health difficulties.
My approach to therapy is warm, open, and honest, creating a space where young people can be themselves without judgement, even if they’re not sure who they are yet. I draw on evidence-based techniques including CBT, DBT, family therapy techniques, and play-based therapy, adapting them to the needs of whoever is in the room including parents/carers.
(03) 7003 2639 View (03) 7003 2639
Photo of Patricia (Patty) Mclean, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Patricia (Patty) Mclean
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Need help and support? Together we can relax, reflect and collaborate to achieve your goals. My counselling, leadership and early years qualifications, 30+ years of experience working with families and children, as a mother with 3 (now mature) children, living and working in a richly diverse community, across multiple countries all helps. I am experienced with customers, families and children with complex needs, anxiety, grief and here to listen, support and take time to help you as an individual become that confident expert in your own life.
Need help and support? Together we can relax, reflect and collaborate to achieve your goals. My counselling, leadership and early years qualifications, 30+ years of experience working with families and children, as a mother with 3 (now mature) children, living and working in a richly diverse community, across multiple countries all helps. I am experienced with customers, families and children with complex needs, anxiety, grief and here to listen, support and take time to help you as an individual become that confident expert in your own life.
(03) 7302 2790 View (03) 7302 2790

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jessica Traino, Counsellor, PACFA
Jessica Traino
Counsellor, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Navigating the world as a neurodivergent person can be incredibly challenging, especially without adequate support.
I'm Jessica, a neurodivergent counsellor, so I truly get it—because I've lived it too. I continuously educate myself on evidence-based practices to offer therapy that's both supportive and effective. My approach is tailored to you, so you feel genuinely heard and understood.
Navigating the world as a neurodivergent person can be incredibly challenging, especially without adequate support.
I'm Jessica, a neurodivergent counsellor, so I truly get it—because I've lived it too. I continuously educate myself on evidence-based practices to offer therapy that's both supportive and effective. My approach is tailored to you, so you feel genuinely heard and understood.
0425 757 450 View 0425 757 450
Photo of Natalie Morris, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Natalie Morris
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Online Only
My main area of practice lies within neurodiversity (e.g., ADHD, Autism) and I have extensive experience in both assessment and therapy supports, striving to conduct all sessions with a neuroaffirming approach.
Hello! I'm Natalie, the principal psychologist at mint psychology. I enjoy working with clients to improve their wellbeing and help them achieve their goals. My approach focuses on ensuring clients feel comfortable, supported, and respected, while working collaboratively to facilitate growth and change. I emphasise transparent communication and ensure all treatment plans and sessions are tailored to the individual clients' needs and preferences. My main therapy modalities include CBT and ACT, though I incorporate concepts from various other approaches such as schema or solution-focused therapy to meet the client's needs.
My main area of practice lies within neurodiversity (e.g., ADHD, Autism) and I have extensive experience in both assessment and therapy supports, striving to conduct all sessions with a neuroaffirming approach.
Hello! I'm Natalie, the principal psychologist at mint psychology. I enjoy working with clients to improve their wellbeing and help them achieve their goals. My approach focuses on ensuring clients feel comfortable, supported, and respected, while working collaboratively to facilitate growth and change. I emphasise transparent communication and ensure all treatment plans and sessions are tailored to the individual clients' needs and preferences. My main therapy modalities include CBT and ACT, though I incorporate concepts from various other approaches such as schema or solution-focused therapy to meet the client's needs.
(03) 7003 2805 View (03) 7003 2805
Photo of Stephanie Terlato, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Stephanie Terlato
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Scoresby, VIC 3179
Stephanie has extensive experience working with clients of all ages, including children, adolescents, and young adults, as well as their families and support networks. Her clinical interests include neurodivergence, chronic illnesses, disabilities (including genetic conditions), gender identity/gender questioning/transgender clients, and general mental health concerns.
Stephanie has extensive experience working with clients of all ages, including children, adolescents, and young adults, as well as their families and support networks. Her clinical interests include neurodivergence, chronic illnesses, disabilities (including genetic conditions), gender identity/gender questioning/transgender clients, and general mental health concerns.
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Photo of Kerryanne T Ansari, Social Worker, MA, AASW
Kerryanne T Ansari
Social Worker, MA, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in providing trauma focussed therapy (EMDR & Internal Family Systems (IFS) for adults, children and young people and am passionate about working with people who are neurodiverse & those coming to terms with childhood trauma or the trauma of being neurodiverse in today’s society. I honour each person’s unique way of being & love working with adolescents & children, fostering healing that builds self-trust, connection & authentic self-expression, developing life long skills, so you can reconnect with yourself, process trauma and feel fully alive again. Our space is safe, respectful, and centered on you.
I specialise in providing trauma focussed therapy (EMDR & Internal Family Systems (IFS) for adults, children and young people and am passionate about working with people who are neurodiverse & those coming to terms with childhood trauma or the trauma of being neurodiverse in today’s society. I honour each person’s unique way of being & love working with adolescents & children, fostering healing that builds self-trust, connection & authentic self-expression, developing life long skills, so you can reconnect with yourself, process trauma and feel fully alive again. Our space is safe, respectful, and centered on you.
(03) 5906 9725 View (03) 5906 9725
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
Photo of Emma Campbell, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Emma Campbell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
She has developed a particular interest in supporting adults with late-diagnosed ADHD and/or autism, as well as those interested in exploring their neurotype.
Emma is able to address issues relating to PTSD/trauma, anxiety disorders such as social anxiety disorder, phobias, and panic disorder. Additionally, she supports those experiencing depression, low self-esteem, sleep difficulties, and adjustment challenges.
She has developed a particular interest in supporting adults with late-diagnosed ADHD and/or autism, as well as those interested in exploring their neurotype.
Emma is able to address issues relating to PTSD/trauma, anxiety disorders such as social anxiety disorder, phobias, and panic disorder. Additionally, she supports those experiencing depression, low self-esteem, sleep difficulties, and adjustment challenges.
(03) 4206 0117 View (03) 4206 0117
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.