Our Psychologist Team
There are currently 23 psychologists who work at Developing Minds Psychology and Education.
We all love working with and specialise in children, teenagers and their families. All of our clinicians are registered or clinical psychologists (mostly with 6-8 years of tertiary study) and on average have 12 (and up to 25) years of experience working with children, teens and their families. We work as a team, train and update each other on areas of development - on a weekly to monthly basis - and consult with each other (following confidentiality guidelines of course) to provide the best care for all of the families we work with. We were fortunate enough to win the Australian “Allied Health Paediatric Practice” award in 2018, and have full accreditation with the National Standards for Mental Health Services (Australia).
Below is some information about each of our individual psychologists. You might see that some of our psychologists have special interests in some areas, however we all work with children and teens who are experiencing anxiety, sadness, problems with anger, managing friendships, relationships and study.
Please note all Developing Minds psychologists welcome and work with all people irrespective of ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity.
Kirrilie Smout (Director)
Kirrilie is a clinical Psychologist, member of the Australian Psychological Society and of the College of Clinical Psychologists. She has a First Class psychology Honours degree and a Masters degree in Clinical psychology, both awarded from Flinders University of SA. She has worked as a psychologist for 25 years with in several different community health and private settings, with a variety of client groups, although predominantly with children, teens and families. She has a particular interest in working with parents/caregivers to reduce parenting related distress, anxiety, frustration and overwhelm.
Kirrilie is also the director of Developing Minds Psychology and provides supervision to the team of child and adolescent psychologists who work with her there. She also provides seminars and training for young people, teachers, health professionals and schools around Australia (and has presented to over 50,000 families over the last two decades).
Kirrilie has received a number of state and national awards, grants and prizes for her speaking, research and consultancy work, and for the work conducted by Developing Minds. She is regularly consulted by print, radio and TV media in relation to psychological issues and has numerous articles published in a variety of newspapers and journals. She has written three books about and for young people, is the developer of the online program Calm Kid Central, and was the SA Convenor of the Child, Adolescent and Family Interest group for the SA chapter of the Australian Psychological Society.
Kirrilie is also an AHPRA approved psychologist supervisor and has presented to other psychologists at several APS national conferences, and state clinical college workshops.
Kirrilie has also worked as a clinic supervisor at the University of SA in the Masters of Clinical Psychology program and for the past few years has co-ordinated and taught the Child Clinical Interventions course in this program.
To contact Kirrilie directly email her at kirriliesmout@developingminds.net.au
Jacinda Fisher (Team Leader - Wayville Tuesday - Friday)
Jacinda is a Clinical Psychologist and a Full Member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) College of Clinical Psychologists. She has a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology and a PhD from Flinders University.
Jacinda has worked as a psychologist since 2003, working in both the public and private sectors. She worked as a psychologist with the Department for Education and Child Development (DECD) for many years and has extensive knowledge in childhood development and the assessment and treatment of learning difficulties as well as assessment and support for individuals with social, emotional and behavioural challenges. Within DECD, Jacinda provided support to teachers, SSO's and families around understanding and supporting students' emotional, social and learning needs and needs in relation to identified disabilities such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Dyslexia among other challenges in the classroom and at school more broadly. Jacinda has also worked previously as a psychologist within a large Adelaide R-12 school and has provided many hours therapeutic intervention for students and consultation to school staff/mentors and parents about how to promote student well being within a classroom and home setting.
Jacinda has also worked as a research psychologist within the Growth and Development Program for children born prematurely and the Child Nutrition Research Centre at Women's and Children's Hospital, and for sleep clinics at Flinders University and the Repatriation General Hospital. Jacinda has experience working within the drug and alcohol area, adult mental health and child health care settings and has a special interest in supporting young people and families around gender/sexual diversity issues. Through her PhD research, she is also knowledgeable in the areas of caregiving, coping, illness and grief and loss. Jacinda also has a particular interest in working with parents/caregivers to reduce parenting related distress, anxiety, frustration and overwhelm.
Jacinda has also had many years of working with children and teens individually in a therapy setting. In her current role at Developing Minds, she is passionate about helping young people who are finding life difficult because of different personal, social, familial or other circumstances. She is particularly passionate about helping children, teens and families find ways to manage challenges so they don't get in the way of living the life they want.
Jacinda is the Team leader at Wayville and provides clinical and professional supervision and crisis supervision to the other Developing Minds psychologists at Wayville. She also provides supervision to some psychologists working outside of Developing Minds at their request. Jacinda’s therapeutic approach is flexible and adapted to the individual, their age/level of development and their presenting concerns. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) feature predominantly in her work.
Jacinda has also been employed on a casual basis by the University of SA to teach/lecture provisional psychologists in the Masters of Clinical Psychology program.
Jacinda sees children and teens who are struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
Jacinda also sees parents/caregivers who are experiencing parenting related distress, anxiety, frustration and overwhelm
Jacinda also presents seminars to students in schools on well-being issues, facilitates groups for parents/caregivers on supporting children "with challenges and big feelings" and is a "Calm Kid Central psychologist" providing psycho-education and support via the Question Centre on the Calm Kid Central website.
To find out more about appointments with Jacinda, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Penny Sih (Team Leader - Aberfoyle Park)
(Aberfoyle Park - Currently working Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday)
Penny is a clinical Psychologist and a full member of the Australian Psychological Society. She has a Psychology Honours degree from Flinders University and a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Adelaide. Penny has always been passionate about working with young people and their families and has a talent for connecting with young people. She has worked as a psychologist since 2004 in both the private sector and a variety of government settings including Child Protection, Community Health and Education. Penny’s roles have included providing therapy and conducting assessments with kids and teens and providing professional development and support for families, teachers and health care workers.
Penny aims to help children and young people understand that their wide-ranging emotions are all part of what makes them human but to also equip them with skills to better manage their tricky emotions (e.g. anxiety, depression, sadness, anger) and adapt their behaviour (e.g. conflict management, social skills, avoidance, challenging behaviour) to lead a full and rewarding life despite any hardship they experience. In her work with families, she works to support parents and caregivers to better understand and be attuned to their child’s needs in order to more effectively support their emotional and behavioural development. Penny draws on a range of evidence-based frameworks and adapts her approaches to meet the needs of clients and their families. However, her work most often draws from Positive Parent Training models, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Attachment Theory (for example Circle of Security©). Penny also has a particular interest in working with parents/caregivers to reduce parenting related distress, anxiety, frustration and overwhelm
Penny has also been employed on a casual basis by the University of SA to teach/lecture provisional psychologists in the Masters of Clinical Psychology program.
Penny sees children and teens who are struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
Penny also sees parents/caregivers struggling with parenting related distress, anxiety, frustration and overwhelm
To find out more about appointments with Penny, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Taryn Gray (Clinical Programs and Systems Manager)
(Aberfoyle Park - Currently working Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday)
Taryn is a clinical Psychologist, a full member of the Australian Psychological Society, and an associate member of the College of Clinical Psychologists. She has a Psychology Honours degree from Adelaide University and a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from James Cook University. She has worked as a Psychologist since 2000 in a variety of settings, with a variety of client groups (including both adults and young people).
Taryn is informed by a range of treatment approaches, including CBT, DBT, ACT and Collaborative and Proactive Solutions. However she takes a transtheoretical approach to treatment and believes in taking a pragmatic and common sense approach to working with families, to establish their goals and work collaboratively with them to assist them to see practical changes in ways which improve day to day functioning.
Taryn is also the clinical programs manager for Developing Minds and develops and monitors all systems to assist in helping the practice and our psychologist to comply with all relevant funding body (including NDIS, Medicare and others), legislative and ethical requirements in working with families.
Clinically, Taryn sees children and teens who are struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Taryn, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Michelle (Aberfoyle Park - Currently working Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday)
Michelle is a clinical Psychologist and a full member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and the APS College of Clinical Psychologists. She has a Psychology Honours degree from Flinders University and a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of South Australia.
Michelle has worked as a psychologist since 2003 and has specialised in working with children, young people and their families. Her knowledge and experience has been gained through work in the areas of disability, health, mental health and education.
Michelle draws on a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches in her work including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). She also uses her knowledge of child development, attachment theory and positive behaviour support interventions.
Michelle also has experience in facilitating a range of therapeutic groups for children and families. These have included social skills groups and groups to strengthen social connections for children and young people with a disability as well as therapeutic groups for siblings of children and young people with a disability. She has also been involved in facilitating parent training groups and parent groups addressing grief and disability.
Michelle has experience with such issues as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, developmental disabilities (including autism spectrum disorders), learning disorders, friendship and relationship difficulties.
Michelle is passionate about working alongside children, young people and their families, to develop their own strengths, skills and strategies so these challenges have much less impact on them and so they can focus on the things in life that are most meaningful to them.
Michelle has also been employed on a casual basis by the University of SA to teach/lecture provisional psychologists in the Masters of Clinical Psychology program. Michelle also provides supervision to provisional psychologists who work with Developing Minds.
Michelle sees children and teens who are struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Michelle, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Megan Grigg (Clinical Supervisor Wayville - Monday, Tuesday and Friday)
Megan is a clinical Psychologist and a full member of the Australian Psychological Society. She has a First Class Honours degree awarded from Flinders University of South Australia and a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology awarded from the University of Adelaide.
Since 2009, Megan has experience working with children and young people (as well as their carers or parents) who present with a range of social, emotional and behavioural difficulties in the home and school setting. She has worked extensively within the child protection setting to assist young people to overcome various trauma and attachment-related difficulties including conduct problems, sexualised behaviour, symptoms of anxiety and depression and difficulty managing change.
Megan utilises a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches in her work which are adapted to suit the needs of each client. These include cognitive-behavioural therapy and approaches based on attachment theory and child neurodevelopment, as well as other practical and theoretical models.
Megan aims to work collaboratively with children, teens and their families to overcome difficulties through complementing and supporting their existing strengths and capacities. She is particularly interested in working with young people (and their parents) to overcome the numerous challenges presented during adolescence and assist them in developing the psychological resiliency required to manage adversity and change.
Megan also assists our Wayville team leader in providing supervision to our clinical team.
Megan sees children and teens who are struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Megan, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Carolyn Di Fiore (Clinical Supervisor Aberfoyle Park - Monday, Wednesday and Friday)
Carolyn is a Clinical Psychologist with a First Class Honours degree from University of Adelaide and a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Flinders University. She is also a board-approved supervisor.
Carolyn has always been passionate about working with children, teens and families and this has been reflected in her previous positions and research pursuits. She has been delivering support in clinic, homes, hospital outpatients and educational settings for the private and public sectors since 2013. She has worked as a psychologist with Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), the Child Development Unit (Women’s and Children’s Hospital) and the Department for Education.
Carolyn has also published research examining behavioural and cognitive outcomes of children born preterm, as well as examining factors involved in forgiveness.
Carolyn uses individualised evidence-based approaches which she flexibly adapts in order to meet the needs of children, young people and caregivers. She draws from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She strives to meet the young person on their level and tailor therapy in a way which assists their personal learning and growth. Carolyn works with children and teens to experience a greater connection to their developing identity, increased confidence and greater independence in managing their current experiences, so that they can achieve a fulfilling and meaningful life. In addition, Carolyn values working with parents and caregivers as she sees the importance of working collaboratively with those that are supporting young people, and in particular, being able to support caregivers in their role.
Carolyn assists our Aberfoyle Park team leader in providing supervision to our clinical team. Carolyn also provides supervision to professionals working outside of Developing Minds.
Carolyn sees children and teens who are struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Carolyn, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Kate Manning (Aberfoyle Park - Currently working Monday, Tuesday, and Friday)
Kate is a clinical Psychologist and a full member of the Australian Psychological Society. She has an Honours degree in Behavioural Science awarded from Flinders University and a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology awarded from the University of Adelaide.
Kate has experience providing support to children and young people who are encountering difficulties with their emotions, adjustment, peer and/or family relationships, behaviour or learning, as well as supporting their families. Since 2010, Kate has gained knowledge and experience through working with children and young people with a wide range of medical conditions or disabilities and has specialist knowledge in the area of paediatric acquired brain injury.
Kate draws on a number of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, in addition to her knowledge of child development and paediatric neuropsychology, to assist in her understanding of the challenges children and young people face. This understanding allows Kate to tailor her therapeutic approach to suit each child or young person individually.
Kate aims to work in collaboration with children, young people, and their families to assist them in building on their strengths and learning further skills to help them to manage the difficulties they are experiencing. Kate is passionate about supporting children and young people of all ages and enjoys using humour and play in her therapy sessions to facilitate children and young peoples’ understanding and engagement in the therapeutic process.
Kate has also been employed on a casual basis by the University of SA to teach/lecture provisional psychologists in the Masters of Clinical Psychology program.
Kate sees children and teens who are struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Kate, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Suzanna Hodgson (Aberfoyle Park - Currently working Tuesday and Wednesday)
Suzanna is a clinical psychologist with a First Class Honours degree awarded from the University of South Australia and a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology awarded from Flinders University.
Since 2009, in both private and public settings, Suzanna has provided therapeutic services to children and their parents or carers who experience a range of life challenges including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, bullying, stressful family experiences, difficulties with anger and behaviour, body image, and attachment related difficulties.
Suzanna also has a background in conducting and supervising research regarding the developing child and adolescent brain.
Suzanna tailors therapy to meet the individual needs of clients, drawing from a range of therapeutic modalities (such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Circle of Security ®) while also incorporating her knowledge of and passion for neurodevelopment and attachment theory.
While all areas of child and adolescent therapy are of interest to Suzanna, she has a particular interest in child and adolescent anxiety and anger related difficulties, as well as helping young people foster stronger relationships with their families to enhance their wellbeing (including working with parents and carers to achieve these goals).
Suzanna strongly believes in the importance of compassionate, collaborative and empathic psychology/family partnerships. She admires her clients for seeking support and feels fortunate to be able to work with young people to develop skills and gain further self-understanding in order to face life’s challenges.
Suzanna sees children and teens who are struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Suzanna, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Belinda Bury (Wayville - Currently working Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday)
Belinda is a Clinical Psychologist, a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), and a Fellow of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists. She previously held the role of Early Career Representative for the National Committee of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists.
Belinda has a long-standing interest in Psychology, having completed her undergraduate degree (Psychology Major) at the University of Adelaide in 1992. She then worked in the area of finance and started her family, before returning to further study in the area of Psychology. She has a First Class Psychology Honours Degree and PhD (Clinical Psychology), both from Flinders University. During her studies Belinda co-authored several articles in peer-reviewed international journals in the area of body image.
In the past Belinda worked as a Clinical Psychologist for SA Health at the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service where her clinical work included providing therapy and conducting assessments with children, teens and their families, as well as liaising with educational and health care services to best support young people.
Belinda’s therapy style is eclectic but individualised, drawing on evidence based theories. Her style includes a blend of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and Attachment Theory. She has a particular interest in the area of anxiety disorders. Belinda strives to make the therapy process an enjoyable one for her clients, and has an appreciation for the importance of a systems-focus when working with young people and their families.
Belinda has also been employed on a casual basis by the University of SA to teach/lecture provisional psychologists in the Masters of Clinical Psychology program.
Belinda sees children and teens who are struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Belinda, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Nicole Carmina (Aberfoyle Park - Currently working Tuesday and Friday)
Nicole is a Psychologist registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and is also a Clinical Psychology Registrar. She graduated with First Class Honours in Psychology and holds a Masters degree from the University of Adelaide. She is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS).
Nicole is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and their families. Nicole has experience working with young people with anxiety, depression, behavioural difficulties, neurodevelopmental disabilities (e.g., ADHD, Intellectual Disability), and complex trauma. Nicole has research experience exploring the impact of Autism Spectrum Disorder on children and their families and has published research in the area of sleep and daytime behaviour in children and adolescents with a chronic illness.
Nicole finds that working together with young people and their parents/caregivers is most valuable. Nicole offers unconditional positive regard to the child or young person she is working with, and this facilitates a therapeutic relationship in which children and young people can feel safe and supported. Therapy is necessarily tailored to the individual needs of the young person and Nicole is skilled at incorporating various evidence-based approaches to achieve this in her practice.
Nicole has spent time in remote Aboriginal communities and is committed to providing culturally appropriate services to children, teens and families who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.
Nicole sees children and teens who are struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Nicole, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Elizabeth Leone (Lizzie) (Wayville - currently working Monday, Thursday and Friday)
Elizabeth is a clinical psychologist with a First Class Honours in Psychology from the University of Adelaide and a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Flinders University. She is a member of the Australian Psychological Society.
Elizabeth has always enjoyed working with children and families and supporting them to achieve their goals. She has gained knowledge and experience through working with children and young people in disability and education sectors and has experience in delivering support in clinic, homes and educational settings. In addition, she has published research exploring the experience of families raising a child with a disability as well as research examining the factors influencing perfectionism in children.
Elizabeth utilises a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches in her work, tailored to the needs of the individual. She adopts a strengths based approach in therapy, looking to build on the existing strengths of families and individuals, building self-efficacy and empowering them to manage and overcome their presenting challenges.
Elizabeth sees children and teens who struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Elizabeth, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Edward (Ned) Dickeson (Wayville - Currently working Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday)
Ned is a clinical psychologist and has worked over 10 years in mental health, community and other not-for-profit settings in support and counselling roles. He supports young people experiencing issues related to anxiety, depression and behavioural difficulties. He uses and has been trained in cognitive-behavioural interventions and mindfulness/acceptance based therapies to support young people and their families to manage life challenges and difficult emotions. Ned has an undergraduate psychology degree, First-Class Psychology Honours Degree from the University of South Australia and a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Adelaide. He is currently completing a doctorate in psychology in the area of Ethics.
Ned sees children and teens struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Ned click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Hayley Scrutton (Aberfoyle Park - Currently working Wednesday and Friday)
Hayley is a clinical psychologist and a full member of the Australian Psychological Society. She has an Honours degree and Master of Clinical Psychology both awarded from the University of South Australia.
Hayley has previously worked with children, adolescents and their families in the public sector, providing therapeutic interventions, comprehensive psychological assessments, and consultation and training for other professionals regarding the psychological needs of children.
Hayley is dedicated to creating a safe and comfortable therapeutic environment. While Hayley has a strong interest in child and adolescent therapy generally, she has a particular interest in providing psychological interventions for the treatment of anxiety, trauma, and relational issues. Hayley uses a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and draws on her knowledge of attachment, neurobiology and child developmental theories, tailoring her approach to the individual needs of each client.
Hayley sees Children and teens struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Hayley click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Rebecca (Wayville Monday, Wednesday, Thursday)
Rebecca is a Clinical Psychologist and a full member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). She has a Psychology Honours degree from the University of South Australia and a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Adelaide.
Rebecca has experience working as a psychologist in a public mental health settings and universities, in Melbourne and Adelaide, since 2009.
Rebecca has experience working with young people (and their families) with a wide range of emotional, social, behavioural and relational difficulties. Rebecca’s approach is warm and empathic, and she draws on a range of evidence-based models and theories to best fit her clients’ unique needs, including Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Rebecca is passionate about assisting young people and families to identify, strengthen and develop the resources that can help them manage life challenges. She sees coming to therapy as a precious opportunity to develop skills in a supportive environment, that can assist well beyond the final session.
Rebecca sees children and teens struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
Rebecca is also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) which is an evidence based therapy for children and adolescents experiencing poor mental health as a result of past traumatic experiences. She sees a limited number of children/adolescents using this modality when appropriate, primarily for trauma related difficulties.
To find out more about appointments with Rebecca click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Mary Salveron (Wayville Currently working Wednesday, Thursday and Friday)
Mary is a registered psychologist who completed her Master of Clinical Psychology Degree at the University of South Australia. She has an Honours degree in Psychology and is a member of the Australian Psychological Society and the Australian Clinical College Association.
Mary is passionate about supporting children’s optimal development and can help with a range of mental health, behavioural and relational difficulties. She strives to build strong, trusting relationships with children, adolescents and families and takes a non-judgemental, empathic, fun, creative and practical approach to therapy – matched to client’s unique needs and goals to create positive and lasting change. She is also dedicated to strengthening the network around children and building the capacity and confidence of parents/caregivers to support children’s social and emotional development.
Her work draws on developmental and attachment-based frameworks and she implements a range of evidence-based psychological therapies such as Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy and techniques of Dialectic Behaviour Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Mary has over 13 years experience as an applied researcher in the field of child protection specialising in research methodologies with vulnerable children, parents and families and evaluation of child protection programs, systems and implementation. Her PhD research explored the experiences of parents with the child protection system and the development of a framework for parent-child contact and access visits. As part of her post-doctoral fellowship, Mary undertook an evaluation of implementation, delivery and uptake of a child protection approach in an Australian jurisdiction and its impact on children, parents and practitioners.
Mary sees Children and teens struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Mary click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Maddison Hood (Aberfoyle Park Tuesday and Wednesday)
Maddison is a Registered Psychologist with an Honours degree in Psychology from Flinders University and a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Bond University on the Gold Coast.
Maddison has experience working with young people and their families who are facing a broad range of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, difficulties with anger and behaviour, body image concerns and concerns relating to gender and sexuality. She has a compassionate, non-judgemental therapeutic style and uses a trauma informed approach to therapy.
Maddison uses a holistic style, drawing from several evidenced-based psychological therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. Maddison also incorporates mindfulness approaches in her work. Maddison is committed to creating a safe environment where young people can feel comfortable and supported in their self-exploration and development of skills to help them cope with life’s challenges. She also works with parents and caregivers to help them understand the young person’s difficulties, ways to effectively support them and ultimately improve relationships.
Maddison sees Children and teens struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Maddison click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
For information about making an appointment with any of our psychologists, please click below
Elizabeth (Liz) Fergusson (Wayville - Currently working Monday and Wednesday)
Elizabeth holds registration as a general psychologist after completing all the requirements of the Doctor of Psychology (Clinical) program at Deakin University. She is a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and is currently working towards endorsement as a Clinical Psychologist. Elizabeth is passionate about supporting children, young people, and their families to build resources and develop strategies to help work through difficulties. She aims to build a supportive environment where people feel valued and understood. Elizabeth draws on evidence-based therapies which are tailored to each person’s needs, and works collaboratively with young people and their families to work towards goals.
Liz sees Children and teens struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Liz click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
For information about making an appointment with any of our psychologists, please click below
Marcela Radunz - Aberfoyle Park (currently working Tuesday and Wednesday)
Marcela is a warm and empathic registered psychologist with a passion for working with children, teens, and their families. Marcela holds a Bachelor of Psychology with First Class Honours and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Flinders University.
With her warm and approachable demeanor, Marcela creates a safe and comfortable environment for her clients to share their thoughts and feelings. Marcela values the importance of building strong relationships with both young people and their families to help them navigate through difficult times.
Marcela's experience includes working with young adults who struggle with body image and eating disorders, as well as children, teens, and their families who face a variety of psychological concerns. Marcela is dedicated to connecting with her clients and providing evidence-based treatments to improve mental health and well-being outcomes in children and teens.
Marcela sees Children and teens struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Marcela click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
For information about making an appointment with any of our psychologists, please click below
Emily Hunt - Wayville (working Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday)
Emily is a clinical psychologist, she has a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology and also a First Class Honours degree in Psychology, awarded from the University of Adelaide. Emily has been practising in psychology for the past 9 years, and has worked almost exclusively with children, teenagers and their families across her career. Emily is also a Board-Approved Supervisor, with experience supporting and training other psychologists in their work with children and their families.
Emily takes a warm, empathic approach, and prioritises the relationships she builds with her clients, knowing this will be the most important ingredient to achieving goals in therapy. She has experience working with a range of emotional, behavioural and social issues that children and teenagers can face, both at home and in the school setting. She has also worked within the child protection setting, supporting children and young people to overcome various trauma, grief and loss, and attachment-related difficulties. As such, she has experience with complex mental health concerns, including aggression, conduct problems, anxiety and depression, suicidal ideation, sexualised behaviour and difficulties with relationships.
Regardless of the presenting concern, Emily is committed to building on the existing strengths of her clients and working in a collaborative manner to enhance their resilience and wellbeing. Emily integrates a range of therapies to fit the needs of individual clients, and will often draw on components of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) in her work with young people. When providing support to younger children and their caregivers, Emily frequently utilises play therapy methods, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) and other attachment-based approaches.
Emily also has experience facilitating therapeutic group programs. She has lead mindfulness-based programs for primary-school aged children, and also groups for siblings of children with disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder.
Emily also has a passion for psychological research, having published research on long-term outcomes for children born prematurely, and tutored in various courses at the University of Adelaide earlier in her career.
Emily sees children and teenagers who are struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Emily click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
For information about making an appointment with any of our psychologists, please click below
Melanie Deek - Aberfoyle Park (Wednesday, Thursday and Friday)
Melanie is an AHPRA Registered Psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). She completed her Honours Degree of the Bachelor of Psychology at Flinders University and was awarded First Class. Melanie is currently completing her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology with a research interest in the area of eating behaviour and body image. Melanie is bilingual and fluent in spoken Arabic.
Melanie is committed to providing evidence-based therapies with a background in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), alongside Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approaches. She has worked across a range of settings with children and young people, alongside their families, in addition to adults across the lifespan, presenting with a wide range of psychological concerns. Melanie is a passionate advocate for client-centered care and collaborative practice
Melanie sees Children and teens struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Melanie click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
For information about making an appointment with any of our psychologists, please click below
Ashleigh Connor - Aberfoyle Park (Thursday and Friday)
Ashleigh is an AHPRA Registered Psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). She holds First Class Honours and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Flinders University.
Ashleigh is committed to providing evidence-based therapies with a background in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) alongside Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) approaches. She has a compassionate, non-judgemental therapeutic approach matched to client’s unique needs, and strives to build strong, trusting relationships with young people and families, working collaboratively towards their goals.
She has worked across a range of settings with children and young people, alongside their families, as well as adults presenting with a range of psychological concerns.
Ashleigh sees children and teens struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Ashleigh click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
For information about making an appointment with any of our psychologists, please click below
Sarah Williams (Wayville on Monday, Tuesday and Friday)
Sarah is a Clinical Psychologist, a Fellow of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) College of Clinical Psychologists, and an APS Board Approved Supervisor. She received a Master of Clinical Psychology degree and PhD in Psychology at The University of Adelaide. Her doctoral research focused on youth and adult friendships.
Sarah has worked as a psychologist with children and adolescents since 2009 and has a particular interest in anxiety and friendship issues. Sarah approaches each client with warmth, empathy, compassion, and a desire to facilitate positive change. Her ability to create a safe and non-judgmental environment allows individuals to openly express their thoughts and feelings, fostering a strong therapeutic alliance.
Sarah believes in the importance of tailoring her approach to suit the unique needs of each client. Utilizing evidence-based techniques, she incorporates a holistic perspective and applies a range of therapeutic interventions to address her clients' concerns effectively. She aims to empower individuals to regain control over their lives and develop coping strategies that promote lasting well-being.
Sarah also works periodically as a clinical placement supervisor at The University of New England in the Master of Professional Psychology program and tutors a wide range of topics in the Master of Clinical Psychology program, including the Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology course.
She has received several awards for her work and has published a range of peer-reviewed journal articles. She was awarded the APS College of Clinical Psychologists Student Prize for her Master degree, a Dean's Commendation for Doctoral Thesis Excellence, and The Frank Dalziel Prize for Best Psychology Thesis submitted in 2023. She was also named Valedictorian for the School of Psychology at the University of Adelaide in her graduating year. She currently holds the title of Honorary Visiting Research Fellow at The University of Adelaide.
Sarah sees children and teens struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Sarah, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Michelle Tonkin (Aberfoyle Park - Thursday and Friday)
Michelle is an AHPRA Registered Psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society. She holds a First Class Honours and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Flinders University, and has published research in the area of eating behaviour. Michelle has always enjoyed working with children and their families, with a background in primary school teaching and having worked in community and other not-for-profit settings in youth support and school counselling roles. She draws on evidence-based therapies, which are tailored to meet the individual needs of each client. With a warm, compassionate, and collaborative approach, Michelle is committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for young people and their families to navigate life's challenges and work towards therapy goals.
Michelle also works at the Department for Education where she assesses learning difficulties and supports students, families, teachers, and support staff to enhance student learning, achievement, engagement and well-being. Additionally, in her part-time role as a Psychologist in the Army Reserve, Michelle provides a range of services, from therapeutic intervention and counselling, to post-operational psychological screening.
Michelle sees children and teens struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Michelle, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Claire Taylor - (Wayville Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday)
Claire is an AHPRA Registered Psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society. She holds a First Class Honours and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Flinders University.
Claire has always enjoyed working with children and their families, with a background in teaching children’s dance and providing disability support. She draws on evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy, tailoring her approach to meet each client’s individual needs, while building on their strengths.
With a compassionate, non-judgemental, and collaborative approach, Claire is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where young people and their families can navigate lifes challenges and work towards their therapy goals.
Claire sees children and teens struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidance behaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Claire, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
Tyla Slobedman - (Aberfoyle Park Monday, Tuesday and Thursday)
Tyla is an AHPRA Registered Psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). She holds a First Class Honours and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Flinders University.
Tyla has experience working in diverse settings with children, adolescents, and families, as well as with adults facing a variety of psychological concerns. She is committed to providing evidence-based therapies, drawing on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approaches.
Tyla's compassionate and non-judgmental therapy approach is tailored to each individual and she strives to build strong, trusting relationships to support clients and collaboratively work towards their therapy goals.
Tyla sees children and teenagers struggling with:
Anxiety (and avoidance), worries and stress
Depression, low self esteem and sadness
Study and Organisational Skills, or coping with school
Social and peer difficulties, social conflict, feeling excluded
Body image and eating concerns (but not diagnosed Eating Disorders under an Eating Disorder Plan)
Emotional dysregulation, feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and challenging (defiant) and demand avoidancebehaviours
Sleep problems
Trauma, difficult life events, and grief and loss
Difficulties managing learning and attention difficulties and differences
Relationships and LGBTQ+ / gender diverse issues
Obsessive compulsive difficulties
Drug and alcohol issues
Challenges managing disabilities or neurodivergence - including autistic young people (including those who feel overwhelmed by demands and expectations), or those with ADHD.
To find out more about appointments with Tyla, click here on Overview of Counselling Services or to make an appointment please call 8357 1711 or email admin@developingminds.net.au
