Autism Counselling in Raymond Terrace, NSW

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Check out counsellors located nearby or offering teletherapy in New South Wales below.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristen Fraser, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Fraser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beresfield, NSW 2322
I provide face to face counselling in Newcastle, NSW and telehealth. I am passionate about supporting people through stress, depression, anxiety, grief, burnout and trauma. I am also experienced in skill building including decision making, communication skills, conflict resolution, emotional regulation and boundary setting, from many years providing Employee Assistance Counselling. I see clients under a variety of programs: private clients, Medicare Approved Mental Health Care Plans, Approved Victims of Crime, Employee Assist and Canteen Australia (12-25 year olds impacted by cancer).
I provide face to face counselling in Newcastle, NSW and telehealth. I am passionate about supporting people through stress, depression, anxiety, grief, burnout and trauma. I am also experienced in skill building including decision making, communication skills, conflict resolution, emotional regulation and boundary setting, from many years providing Employee Assistance Counselling. I see clients under a variety of programs: private clients, Medicare Approved Mental Health Care Plans, Approved Victims of Crime, Employee Assist and Canteen Australia (12-25 year olds impacted by cancer).
(02) 4075 3421 View (02) 4075 3421
Photo of Chris Butler, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Medowie, NSW 2318
Every person's journey is unique, and I like to understand the background and goals of the people I support to ensure we create a personalised plan for them. I am very experienced in supporting adults, and adolescents and I have a strong interest in supporting people navigating anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, developmental trauma, and the myriad of life's challenges. My approach is twofold: I believe in equipping you with immediate tools to cope with present concerns, while also delving into the roots of these issues – be it past events, deep-seated beliefs, or coping mechanisms – to pave the way for a brighter future.
Every person's journey is unique, and I like to understand the background and goals of the people I support to ensure we create a personalised plan for them. I am very experienced in supporting adults, and adolescents and I have a strong interest in supporting people navigating anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, developmental trauma, and the myriad of life's challenges. My approach is twofold: I believe in equipping you with immediate tools to cope with present concerns, while also delving into the roots of these issues – be it past events, deep-seated beliefs, or coping mechanisms – to pave the way for a brighter future.
(02) 4071 4541 View (02) 4071 4541

Online Therapists

Photo of Shelley Puru - Shelley Puru - Harmony Well-being Services, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Shelley Puru - Harmony Well-being Services
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Toronto, NSW 2283
Specialising in children, youth and individuals who are stressed, anxious and generally overwhelmed with life’s curve balls. Do you have children with behaviours that are challenging, diagnosis’ of ADHD, Autism or similar? Do you have teens that feel like no one understands them? Do you want to create a sense of contentment in your life? To gain some connection within your family, to feel a greater sense of self-worth and self-acceptance? To understand and not vilify the many different parts of who you are? Congratulations on taking the first and often most difficult step in your well-being journey!
Specialising in children, youth and individuals who are stressed, anxious and generally overwhelmed with life’s curve balls. Do you have children with behaviours that are challenging, diagnosis’ of ADHD, Autism or similar? Do you have teens that feel like no one understands them? Do you want to create a sense of contentment in your life? To gain some connection within your family, to feel a greater sense of self-worth and self-acceptance? To understand and not vilify the many different parts of who you are? Congratulations on taking the first and often most difficult step in your well-being journey!
(02) 4005 0240 View (02) 4005 0240
Photo of Jaime Kim Wroe - NeuroKind, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
NeuroKind
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Wyong, NSW 2259
We support a diverse range of neurodivergent experiences including but not limited to autism, ADHD, cognitive and learning differences, gender diversity, or the unique interactions between these.
At NeuroKind, we are dedicated to empowering neurodivergence through a client-led, strengths-based therapeutic approach. Our neuroaffirming framework supports you in exploring and embracing your unique neurodivergent identity, fostering independence and self-determination. Join our community and start your journey to self-acceptance — and thrive independently as your authentic self. NeuroKind has been awarded the New Partner in Employability Award by the University of Newcastle, 2023 Start-up of the Year by Business Wyong. And finalist in the Psychology Category of the prestigious 2024 Australian Small Business Champion Awards
We support a diverse range of neurodivergent experiences including but not limited to autism, ADHD, cognitive and learning differences, gender diversity, or the unique interactions between these.
At NeuroKind, we are dedicated to empowering neurodivergence through a client-led, strengths-based therapeutic approach. Our neuroaffirming framework supports you in exploring and embracing your unique neurodivergent identity, fostering independence and self-determination. Join our community and start your journey to self-acceptance — and thrive independently as your authentic self. NeuroKind has been awarded the New Partner in Employability Award by the University of Newcastle, 2023 Start-up of the Year by Business Wyong. And finalist in the Psychology Category of the prestigious 2024 Australian Small Business Champion Awards
(02) 4306 7605 View (02) 4306 7605
Photo of Chrissy Antonopoulos (Online Telehealth), PsyBA General, Psychologist
Chrissy Antonopoulos (Online Telehealth)
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Carlton, NSW 2218  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Psychologist working with people experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, eating and body image concerns, stress/life changes, grief/loss, chronic health conditions and disability. I have an interest in assessment and experience with Autism, ADHD, learning, intellectual and adaptive functioning assessments. I can provide reports for NDIS and education/school plans. I have lived experience of disability and work from an affirming, collaborative and empowering framework. I work with people of all ages and am currently only offering Telehealth services.
I am a Registered Psychologist working with people experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, eating and body image concerns, stress/life changes, grief/loss, chronic health conditions and disability. I have an interest in assessment and experience with Autism, ADHD, learning, intellectual and adaptive functioning assessments. I can provide reports for NDIS and education/school plans. I have lived experience of disability and work from an affirming, collaborative and empowering framework. I work with people of all ages and am currently only offering Telehealth services.
(02) 9053 4329 View (02) 9053 4329
Photo of Dr Pauline Hall, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Pauline Hall
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Dr. Hall is a clinical psychologist working with people from different cultural backgrounds. She is now seeing clients from Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, and Vietnam. She practices evidence-based assessment and treatment for developmental disorders in children, teenagers, and adults (e.g., Intellectual Disability, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism, etc.) with mood disorders, anxiety, and cognitive disorders. Dr. Hall has been worked in various areas, including schools, hospitals, community health services courts, businesses, and private practices.
Dr. Hall is a clinical psychologist working with people from different cultural backgrounds. She is now seeing clients from Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, and Vietnam. She practices evidence-based assessment and treatment for developmental disorders in children, teenagers, and adults (e.g., Intellectual Disability, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism, etc.) with mood disorders, anxiety, and cognitive disorders. Dr. Hall has been worked in various areas, including schools, hospitals, community health services courts, businesses, and private practices.
(02) 9411 7837 View (02) 9411 7837
Photo of Nicole Rae Ennis-Oakes - Centre for Neurodiversity, MAPS, Psychologist
Centre for Neurodiversity
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Erina, NSW 2250
Please feel free to contact me if you are an individual with an autism spectrum condition, parent/s of a child with autism, or if you are in a relationship with a person who has an autism spectrum condition and require assistance or advice.
Specialisation in children, adolescents and adults in need of diagnosis, or already diagnosed, higher functioning autism spectrum conditions, including those associated with (diagnosed) chromosomal abnormalities, and their parents or partners. Issues may be that the individual requires a formal diagnosis, intervention, intervention guidance, relationship guidance or parenting guidance.
Please feel free to contact me if you are an individual with an autism spectrum condition, parent/s of a child with autism, or if you are in a relationship with a person who has an autism spectrum condition and require assistance or advice.
Specialisation in children, adolescents and adults in need of diagnosis, or already diagnosed, higher functioning autism spectrum conditions, including those associated with (diagnosed) chromosomal abnormalities, and their parents or partners. Issues may be that the individual requires a formal diagnosis, intervention, intervention guidance, relationship guidance or parenting guidance.
(02) 4058 3921 View (02) 4058 3921
Photo of Tiffany Williamson, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Tiffany Williamson
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Springwood, NSW 2777
I have qualifications from La Trobe University, University of New England and Edith Cowan University. During my most recent degree, I designed, managed and executed a research project which looked at the attitudes and knowledge of university students on Autism Spectrum Disorder. I have a passion for supporting children and families with disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, and those who have experienced trauma. I am passionate about working with neurodiverse families, across a range of cultural backgrounds
I have qualifications from La Trobe University, University of New England and Edith Cowan University. During my most recent degree, I designed, managed and executed a research project which looked at the attitudes and knowledge of university students on Autism Spectrum Disorder. I have a passion for supporting children and families with disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, and those who have experienced trauma. I am passionate about working with neurodiverse families, across a range of cultural backgrounds
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Photo of Shiraz Patel - Life Strategist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member, Psychologist
Life Strategist
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Verified Verified
Revesby, NSW 2212
Focus areas: Depression / Anxiety Disorders / Parenting / Substance Use / Learning difficulties / Autism / ADHD / Relationships / Trauma Client Groups : School age / Young & Older Adults / Veterans / Couples / Families / Parent-Child -toddler relationships.
Shiraz works with Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couple & Families and Veteran community. Applies specialist skills in working with parents and children on the attachment dyad employing Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). Shiraz was part of the first Australian cohort trained in PCIT in 2011. He travelled internationally on a scholarship to train in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, PCIT and Mindfulness to address anxiety, depression, adjustment issues and trauma. Shiraz also utilizes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Focus areas: Depression / Anxiety Disorders / Parenting / Substance Use / Learning difficulties / Autism / ADHD / Relationships / Trauma Client Groups : School age / Young & Older Adults / Veterans / Couples / Families / Parent-Child -toddler relationships.
Shiraz works with Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couple & Families and Veteran community. Applies specialist skills in working with parents and children on the attachment dyad employing Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). Shiraz was part of the first Australian cohort trained in PCIT in 2011. He travelled internationally on a scholarship to train in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, PCIT and Mindfulness to address anxiety, depression, adjustment issues and trauma. Shiraz also utilizes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
(02) 8105 6473 View (02) 8105 6473
Photo of Amanda Rodd, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Amanda Rodd
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kotara, NSW 2289
Amanda is a warm and caring psychologist who enjoys working collaboratively with her clients. She focuses on creating a secure and friendly environment where individuals can feel safe and empowered to cope with life challenges. Amanda has qualifications in both Education and Psychology. She has extensive experience in educational and psychological assessments and interventions for children and adolescents. She has expertise in the diagnosis of Autism, learning disorders, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, and a range of mental health presentations including anxiety and depression. Interventions are tailored to the individual's needs.
Amanda is a warm and caring psychologist who enjoys working collaboratively with her clients. She focuses on creating a secure and friendly environment where individuals can feel safe and empowered to cope with life challenges. Amanda has qualifications in both Education and Psychology. She has extensive experience in educational and psychological assessments and interventions for children and adolescents. She has expertise in the diagnosis of Autism, learning disorders, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, and a range of mental health presentations including anxiety and depression. Interventions are tailored to the individual's needs.
(02) 4082 8723 View (02) 4082 8723
Photo of Maria Morte-Sanorjo - Centre for Meaningful Growth, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Centre for Meaningful Growth
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Seven Hills, NSW 2147
Maria can offer psychometric assessments and therapy for a range of child, adolescent and adult mental health presentations, including depression, anxiety, complex trauma & PTSD, OCD, chronic pain, grief/loss, interpersonal difficulties, learning difficulties, Autism and ADHD.
Maria has a keen interest in children as well as women’s health and has extensive experience with perinatal mental health and child development. She is passionate about supporting new parents as they navigate the exciting yet challenging transition to parenthood. Having worked extensively in the area of pregnancy loss, Maria has provided much-needed support to families through their grieving process, offering a compassionate and understanding approach. Maria’s dedication to comprehensive care for parents extends from planning to conceive through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Maria speaks fluent tagalog (Filipino).
Maria can offer psychometric assessments and therapy for a range of child, adolescent and adult mental health presentations, including depression, anxiety, complex trauma & PTSD, OCD, chronic pain, grief/loss, interpersonal difficulties, learning difficulties, Autism and ADHD.
Maria has a keen interest in children as well as women’s health and has extensive experience with perinatal mental health and child development. She is passionate about supporting new parents as they navigate the exciting yet challenging transition to parenthood. Having worked extensively in the area of pregnancy loss, Maria has provided much-needed support to families through their grieving process, offering a compassionate and understanding approach. Maria’s dedication to comprehensive care for parents extends from planning to conceive through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Maria speaks fluent tagalog (Filipino).
(02) 8609 3207 View (02) 8609 3207
Begin Again Therapy
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newcastle, NSW 2300
This includes Autism, ADHD and Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics assessments.
At Begin Again Therapy, we are a team of caring and experienced Newcastle psychologists who recognise the importance of relationships in facilitating healing. We have created a psychology clinic with the intention of prioritising safety, connection and compassion. We endeavour to empower people to step into a place of vulnerability and find the strength to embrace their humanness. Working collaboratively, we select and integrate well-researched approaches based on your unique needs, strengths and resources.
This includes Autism, ADHD and Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics assessments.
At Begin Again Therapy, we are a team of caring and experienced Newcastle psychologists who recognise the importance of relationships in facilitating healing. We have created a psychology clinic with the intention of prioritising safety, connection and compassion. We endeavour to empower people to step into a place of vulnerability and find the strength to embrace their humanness. Working collaboratively, we select and integrate well-researched approaches based on your unique needs, strengths and resources.
(02) 4058 4013 View (02) 4058 4013
Photo of Gemma Illescas - always flying psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
always flying psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kincumber, NSW 2251
Other areas of work, Autism, Intellectual Disability, Behaviour challenges, Specific Learning Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, in the background of Trauma Informed Practices.
More than 17 years of experience working in Europe and Australia within the Public Education System and Private practice. Always flying psychology is a place where you can be yourself with no judgement. Supporting you stay emotionally healthy, be able to achieve your goals and be happy with yourself are strong values in my practice.
Other areas of work, Autism, Intellectual Disability, Behaviour challenges, Specific Learning Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, in the background of Trauma Informed Practices.
More than 17 years of experience working in Europe and Australia within the Public Education System and Private practice. Always flying psychology is a place where you can be yourself with no judgement. Supporting you stay emotionally healthy, be able to achieve your goals and be happy with yourself are strong values in my practice.
(02) 9158 6576 View (02) 9158 6576
Photo of Simran Agarwal - Inner Transformations Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Inner Transformations Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Campsie, NSW 2194
I am Simran, a Clinical Psychologist. I hold a Master of Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Hons). With over seven years of experience working with children and adults across the lifespan, I have a special interest in Autism and Intellectual Disability and provide gold standard diagnostic assessments and evidenced based therapy to children, adolescents, and adults with co-occurring mental health concerns. I am passionate about early intervention in mental health and have a particular interest in behaviour management and parenting strategies for children under 12.
I am Simran, a Clinical Psychologist. I hold a Master of Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Hons). With over seven years of experience working with children and adults across the lifespan, I have a special interest in Autism and Intellectual Disability and provide gold standard diagnostic assessments and evidenced based therapy to children, adolescents, and adults with co-occurring mental health concerns. I am passionate about early intervention in mental health and have a particular interest in behaviour management and parenting strategies for children under 12.
(02) 8105 5015 View (02) 8105 5015
Photo of Khalil Dolatyar, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Khalil Dolatyar
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153
I am a registered psychologist with expertise spanning across the lifespan, working with children, adolescents, and adults across various funding avenues including Private, Medicare, and NDIS. My practice encompasses assessment, treatment, and management of a diverse range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, marital conflicts, autism, ADHD, psychosis, workplace interpersonal difficulties, and various life stressors such as chronic illness, unemployment, financial challenges, grief, and divorce. Additionally, I conduct cognitive assessments for both children and adults.
I am a registered psychologist with expertise spanning across the lifespan, working with children, adolescents, and adults across various funding avenues including Private, Medicare, and NDIS. My practice encompasses assessment, treatment, and management of a diverse range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, marital conflicts, autism, ADHD, psychosis, workplace interpersonal difficulties, and various life stressors such as chronic illness, unemployment, financial challenges, grief, and divorce. Additionally, I conduct cognitive assessments for both children and adults.
(02) 6189 2642 View (02) 6189 2642
Photo of Kate Evans, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Kate Evans
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Paddington, NSW 2021  (Online Only)
My clinical experience is in managing a wide range of psychological problems in adults, adolescents and parents looking for support with anxiety, stress, low mood and depression, personal development, managing perfectionism and procrastination, interpersonal difficulties, self-esteem, and the challenges related to ADHD and Autism.
I am mindful of creating a safe, non-judgemental environment as a clinical psychologist who draws upon evidence based therapies to empower my clients to build self-awareness and improve their quality of life. I support clients in processing their emotions, developing a better understanding of who they are and how best to break free from negative life patterns that have exacerbated their psychological challenges. I also have extensive experience in parenting and child behaviour concerns. I work collaboratively with parents to identify and address child behaviour and emotional needs to help your child and manage your own wellbeing.
My clinical experience is in managing a wide range of psychological problems in adults, adolescents and parents looking for support with anxiety, stress, low mood and depression, personal development, managing perfectionism and procrastination, interpersonal difficulties, self-esteem, and the challenges related to ADHD and Autism.
I am mindful of creating a safe, non-judgemental environment as a clinical psychologist who draws upon evidence based therapies to empower my clients to build self-awareness and improve their quality of life. I support clients in processing their emotions, developing a better understanding of who they are and how best to break free from negative life patterns that have exacerbated their psychological challenges. I also have extensive experience in parenting and child behaviour concerns. I work collaboratively with parents to identify and address child behaviour and emotional needs to help your child and manage your own wellbeing.
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Photo of Paula Garrido, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Paula Garrido
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
She currently sees patients with Autism, Asperger's, ADHD, PTSD, Complex-PTSD, agoraphobia, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, OCD, depression, anxiety, psychosis, schizophrenia, delusional disorder, bipolar disorder, intellectual disability, acquired brain injury (ABI), epilepsy, Multiple sclerosis, spinal injury and uses evidenced based psychological therapies.
Welcome! Clinical Psychologist Paula Garrido, is registered with the NDIS and provides evidence-based treatment via Telehealth/video call therapy to NDIS Participants. She Certified Autism, PTSD and ADHD practitioner and provides neurodiverse affirming therapy. She is a warm, gentle,understanding, non-judgmental psychologist that provides a safe therapeutic space, to assist patients rebuild their self-confidence and successfully work towards their goals. She has experience working in public hospitals, private psychology clinics with people with mild to severe mental illness, with the NDIA/NDIS including writing NDIS patient reports.
She currently sees patients with Autism, Asperger's, ADHD, PTSD, Complex-PTSD, agoraphobia, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, OCD, depression, anxiety, psychosis, schizophrenia, delusional disorder, bipolar disorder, intellectual disability, acquired brain injury (ABI), epilepsy, Multiple sclerosis, spinal injury and uses evidenced based psychological therapies.
Welcome! Clinical Psychologist Paula Garrido, is registered with the NDIS and provides evidence-based treatment via Telehealth/video call therapy to NDIS Participants. She Certified Autism, PTSD and ADHD practitioner and provides neurodiverse affirming therapy. She is a warm, gentle,understanding, non-judgmental psychologist that provides a safe therapeutic space, to assist patients rebuild their self-confidence and successfully work towards their goals. She has experience working in public hospitals, private psychology clinics with people with mild to severe mental illness, with the NDIA/NDIS including writing NDIS patient reports.
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Photo of Laura Jones, MC, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Laura Jones
Psychotherapist, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Earlwood, NSW 2206  (Online Only)
I have extensive professional and personal experience with Neurodiversity (including ADHD and Autism), Domestic and Family Violence, Trauma & PTSD, Grief and loss, Depression and Suicidal Ideation. Our sessions will be focused on you; your goals, your strengths and what you are hoping to achieve. No one knows your story better than you do, and my aim is to provide a safe environment where you feel heard and validated.
I have extensive professional and personal experience with Neurodiversity (including ADHD and Autism), Domestic and Family Violence, Trauma & PTSD, Grief and loss, Depression and Suicidal Ideation. Our sessions will be focused on you; your goals, your strengths and what you are hoping to achieve. No one knows your story better than you do, and my aim is to provide a safe environment where you feel heard and validated.
(02) 8599 7286 View (02) 8599 7286
Photo of David Hawkins, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
David Hawkins
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burwood, NSW 2134
David offers comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for autism spectrum, attention deficit/hyperactivity, specific learning disorder (including dyslexia and dyscalculia) and intellectual disability.
David Hawkins is a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. David has worked in a variety of settings including public and private mental health services, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, and large school systems. David's training encompasses a wide array of therapies, from the conversational model and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) to dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), and short-term psychodynamic approaches.
David offers comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for autism spectrum, attention deficit/hyperactivity, specific learning disorder (including dyslexia and dyscalculia) and intellectual disability.
David Hawkins is a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. David has worked in a variety of settings including public and private mental health services, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, and large school systems. David's training encompasses a wide array of therapies, from the conversational model and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) to dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), and short-term psychodynamic approaches.
(02) 9538 7437 View (02) 9538 7437
Photo of Chris Brett, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Chris Brett
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Manly, NSW 2095
Hello, I'm Chris, a clinical psychologist specialising in EMDR therapy, adult, young adult, and adolescent mental health, neurological difficulties (including FNSD), and assessments for Autism and ADHD.
Hello, I'm Chris, a clinical psychologist specialising in EMDR therapy, adult, young adult, and adolescent mental health, neurological difficulties (including FNSD), and assessments for Autism and ADHD.
(02) 9159 6196 View (02) 9159 6196

See more therapy options for Raymond Terrace

Autism Counsellors

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.