Therapy that works with who your child is

Neurodiversity-affirming is a phrase that gets used a lot. Here is what it means in my practice, concretely.

I start from the view that autism, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental differences are part of the natural variety of human minds, not something to be corrected. My job is not to make an autistic child seem less autistic or an ADHD child sit still. It is to help your child understand themselves, to build the skills they want, to reduce the distress that gets in the way, and to help the adults around them adjust the environment so it fits better. Sometimes that means working on worries or big emotions. Sometimes it means working on sensory needs, routines or friendships. Often it means working with parents and schools as much as with the child.

Who I work with

• Autistic children, ADHD children and children who are both (AuDHD)
• Children who are waiting for an assessment, or whose parents suspect they may be neurodivergent
• Children with a diagnosis who are finding school, friendships or home hard right now
• Parents who want to understand their child better and feel more confident

I work with children aged three to twelve, in Erina or by telehealth Australia-wide.

What sessions look like

Sessions are led by your child's interests and pace. For younger children that means play, drawing, games and stories. For older children it might mean talking through something that happened at school, building a plan for a situation they dread, or working out what helps when everything feels like too much. I don't use approaches that rely on compliance or on suppressing the ways a child regulates themselves, like stimming. Breaks, movement and a bit of mess are welcome.

Working alongside other supports

Many neurodivergent children see an occupational therapist or a speech pathologist as well. I've spent years working in that kind of team and I'm glad to collaborate with your child's other therapists, with your consent, so that everyone is pulling in the same direction. I can also liaise with your child's school and help you ask for adjustments.

Lived experience

I parent alongside ADHD and I'm part of a neurodivergent family. It doesn't make me an expert on your child, but it does mean I understand something of what your family may be carrying, and I don't need it explained from the beginning.

The first appointment is usually with parents only. Medicare rebates apply with a Mental Health Treatment Plan, and I see children under self-managed and plan-managed NDIS plans. Fees and rebates are listed here. If you'd like to talk about whether I might be a good fit, I would be happy to hear from you.