Autism Counselling in Doncaster, VIC

Photo of Thomas O'Hare, MC, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist
Thomas O'Hare
Psychologist, MC, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
I have two guinea pigs in my sessions for animal assisted therapy, utilise multiple strategies from a wide range of therapeutic styles, and conduct assessments for Autism, ADHD, Specific Learning Disorders, and cognitive and educational ability.
I see a lot of clients who have recently been diagnosed with Autism or ADHD, and assist in understanding their strengths as well as things that they may need to take into consideration. As well as this, I see many children who are experiencing challenges in attending school, and fitting in with their peers, adolescents who are experiencing academic pressure, young adults who are moving from adolescence to adulthood and navigating the changed expectations and relationships that come with this, and adults with a variety of concerns big and small.
I have two guinea pigs in my sessions for animal assisted therapy, utilise multiple strategies from a wide range of therapeutic styles, and conduct assessments for Autism, ADHD, Specific Learning Disorders, and cognitive and educational ability.
I see a lot of clients who have recently been diagnosed with Autism or ADHD, and assist in understanding their strengths as well as things that they may need to take into consideration. As well as this, I see many children who are experiencing challenges in attending school, and fitting in with their peers, adolescents who are experiencing academic pressure, young adults who are moving from adolescence to adulthood and navigating the changed expectations and relationships that come with this, and adults with a variety of concerns big and small.
(03) 8771 4305 View (03) 8771 4305
Photo of Sharen Lui - Sprout Psychology Melbourne Pty Ltd, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.	, Psychologist
Sprout Psychology Melbourne Pty Ltd
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
, Autism Spectrum, Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning difficulties).
This is an unprecedented time, where many individuals suffer from overwhelming stress and immense feelings of loneliness. Our psychologists provide professional, non-judgemental, client-centred, and holistic treatment to assist clients undergoing difficulties - (Director, Educational and Developmental Psychologist, Sharen Lui)
, Autism Spectrum, Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning difficulties).
This is an unprecedented time, where many individuals suffer from overwhelming stress and immense feelings of loneliness. Our psychologists provide professional, non-judgemental, client-centred, and holistic treatment to assist clients undergoing difficulties - (Director, Educational and Developmental Psychologist, Sharen Lui)
(03) 8686 8317 View (03) 8686 8317
Photo of Alicia Fisher, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Alicia Fisher
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
Hi, my name is Alisha, I enjoy working with children, teenagers, and young adults. Much of my work is directed toward Autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties, including tailored psychological assessments and reports for these issues. I also work with people who experience behavioural and social difficulties, low self-esteem, interpersonal difficulties, depression and anxiety disorders such as separation, phobias, and OCD. I will work collaboratively with parents (where relevant), and other professionals to help you find more peace in life and ensure that the best outcomes can be achieved.
Hi, my name is Alisha, I enjoy working with children, teenagers, and young adults. Much of my work is directed toward Autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties, including tailored psychological assessments and reports for these issues. I also work with people who experience behavioural and social difficulties, low self-esteem, interpersonal difficulties, depression and anxiety disorders such as separation, phobias, and OCD. I will work collaboratively with parents (where relevant), and other professionals to help you find more peace in life and ensure that the best outcomes can be achieved.
(03) 7500 5810 View (03) 7500 5810
Photo of Gigi Tsui - Gigi Tsui I Mindflow Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Gigi Tsui I Mindflow Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
Gigi is a registered Educational & Developmental Psychologist. Gigi completed her Master of Educational and Developmental Psychology at the University of Melbourne. Gigi is passionate about supporting adolescents and adults of all neurotypes using a holistic and strength-based approach. Gigi is experienced in conducting comprehensive psycho-educational and neurodevelopmental ( Autism, ADHD) assessments for young people and adults.
Gigi is a registered Educational & Developmental Psychologist. Gigi completed her Master of Educational and Developmental Psychology at the University of Melbourne. Gigi is passionate about supporting adolescents and adults of all neurotypes using a holistic and strength-based approach. Gigi is experienced in conducting comprehensive psycho-educational and neurodevelopmental ( Autism, ADHD) assessments for young people and adults.
(03) 8771 5770 View (03) 8771 5770
Photo of Annelisa Kalaiziovski, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Annelisa Kalaiziovski
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doncaster, VIC 3108
Think Lemonade Counselling & Creative Studio is a place where I work from the heart. I have up to 10 years of extensive experience working within the disability and mental health sector. I am a qualified Counsellor and Art Therapist and can offer you flexibility with what approach meets your needs and how you would like to work with me. I embrace values of inclusion, acceptance, diversity, respect and compassion. I aim to create a space where you feel empowered to take the lead with your mental health journey. I work from a trauma-informed, person-centred and holistic approach with all my clients.
Think Lemonade Counselling & Creative Studio is a place where I work from the heart. I have up to 10 years of extensive experience working within the disability and mental health sector. I am a qualified Counsellor and Art Therapist and can offer you flexibility with what approach meets your needs and how you would like to work with me. I embrace values of inclusion, acceptance, diversity, respect and compassion. I aim to create a space where you feel empowered to take the lead with your mental health journey. I work from a trauma-informed, person-centred and holistic approach with all my clients.
(03) 8400 0504 View (03) 8400 0504
Photo of Dennis Kwan, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dennis Kwan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
I have been providing family therapy for around four years, specializing in working with adolescents with high-risk behaviours and supporting family relationship repair. I also provide interventions for individuals with mental health issues from various cultural backgrounds. My background includes working in the sectors of youth justice and forensic mental health, as well as with families with complex needs, children/adolescents with behavioural issues, and providing individual counselling.
I have been providing family therapy for around four years, specializing in working with adolescents with high-risk behaviours and supporting family relationship repair. I also provide interventions for individuals with mental health issues from various cultural backgrounds. My background includes working in the sectors of youth justice and forensic mental health, as well as with families with complex needs, children/adolescents with behavioural issues, and providing individual counselling.
(03) 8771 4467 View (03) 8771 4467
Photo of Janelle Corlass-Brown, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Janelle Corlass-Brown
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
I'm a registered Counselling Psychologist, Supervisor and Director at iPsychology who is passionate about working collaboratively with people to reach their goals. We emphasize the importance of the therapeutic relationship, viewing each client as unique in their experience and needs. For nearly 15 years we have worked with children, adolescents and adults and families in educational, private, hospital and community settings and I support the team here at iPsychology. We work with clients new to therapy and those wanting to work on a deeper therapeutic level, with client’s describing us as authentic, nurturing... and light-hearted.
I'm a registered Counselling Psychologist, Supervisor and Director at iPsychology who is passionate about working collaboratively with people to reach their goals. We emphasize the importance of the therapeutic relationship, viewing each client as unique in their experience and needs. For nearly 15 years we have worked with children, adolescents and adults and families in educational, private, hospital and community settings and I support the team here at iPsychology. We work with clients new to therapy and those wanting to work on a deeper therapeutic level, with client’s describing us as authentic, nurturing... and light-hearted.
(03) 8613 3446 View (03) 8613 3446
Photo of Ceara Nelson, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Ceara Nelson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
I provide personalised evidence-based assessment and psychotherapy in a warm, collaborative and compassionate environment. I firmly believe that everyone has different goals for therapy and I tailor my approach to individual needs and preferences. I work with a wide range of mental health concerns such as anxiety and anxiety related disorders, depression, trauma, emotion regulation issues, relationship issues, grief and life transitions. I am experienced working with specific issues and mood disturbances that occur in the context of ASD and ADHD.
I provide personalised evidence-based assessment and psychotherapy in a warm, collaborative and compassionate environment. I firmly believe that everyone has different goals for therapy and I tailor my approach to individual needs and preferences. I work with a wide range of mental health concerns such as anxiety and anxiety related disorders, depression, trauma, emotion regulation issues, relationship issues, grief and life transitions. I am experienced working with specific issues and mood disturbances that occur in the context of ASD and ADHD.
(03) 7500 5332 View (03) 7500 5332
Photo of Belinda Tune, MAPS, Psychologist
Belinda Tune
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
Waitlist for new clients
I have been a practising Psychologist since 1991, working in the community sector (NGOs) and running my own practice - providing counselling and psychotherapy to individuals and couples.
I have been a practising Psychologist since 1991, working in the community sector (NGOs) and running my own practice - providing counselling and psychotherapy to individuals and couples.
(03) 9070 3515 View (03) 9070 3515
Photo of Dr Danielle Orton-Lachlan, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Danielle Orton-Lachlan
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
Danielle offers individual therapy and is passionate about working with young adults and adults with ASD and/or ADHD. Danielle’s approach is trauma-informed and neuroaffirming. She has a special interest in working with neurodiverse adults diagnosed later in life. Danielle lives in a neuodiverse household and understands the challenges that exist at both an individual and family level. Consequently, she also has a passion for supporting parents and carers. Danielle is completing Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) training with her best pal, Shelby the Golden, joining her soon in the counselling room!
Danielle offers individual therapy and is passionate about working with young adults and adults with ASD and/or ADHD. Danielle’s approach is trauma-informed and neuroaffirming. She has a special interest in working with neurodiverse adults diagnosed later in life. Danielle lives in a neuodiverse household and understands the challenges that exist at both an individual and family level. Consequently, she also has a passion for supporting parents and carers. Danielle is completing Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) training with her best pal, Shelby the Golden, joining her soon in the counselling room!
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Photo of Liselotte Roosen, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Liselotte Roosen
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108  (Online Only)
Liselotte (or Lisa) is a Clinical Psychologist registered in Australia. In addition to her master's degree in clinical and health psychology, she has completed a PhD in environmental psychology. Since obtaining her Master’s degree in 2005, Liselotte has gained a lot of experience as a psychologist and has worked with many different client populations and in various settings. She has worked with clients from 4 to 104 years old, but works mainly with adults now. Liselotte has international work experience, having worked as a psychologist in the Netherlands, Belgium, Australia and Norway.
Liselotte (or Lisa) is a Clinical Psychologist registered in Australia. In addition to her master's degree in clinical and health psychology, she has completed a PhD in environmental psychology. Since obtaining her Master’s degree in 2005, Liselotte has gained a lot of experience as a psychologist and has worked with many different client populations and in various settings. She has worked with clients from 4 to 104 years old, but works mainly with adults now. Liselotte has international work experience, having worked as a psychologist in the Netherlands, Belgium, Australia and Norway.
1800 327 477 View 1800 327 477
Photo of Suzanne Patricia Pata - White Spaces Creative Arts Therapy (Suzanne Pata), AThR, Psychotherapist
White Spaces Creative Arts Therapy (Suzanne Pata)
Psychotherapist, AThR
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
Hi, I'm Suzanne and my passion is helping to positively support people of all ages through the use of therapeutic creative arts. My approach is individualised, empathic, trauma informed, and supportive and affirming of all genders and neurodiversity. I aim to provide you a with safe, judgement free space, where I can be a companion on your journey to support you with making positive changes in your life. My main areas of interest include mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression, PTSD and Complex PTSD, grief support, coping with the effects of family violence, sexual abuse, and alcohol and other drugs.
Hi, I'm Suzanne and my passion is helping to positively support people of all ages through the use of therapeutic creative arts. My approach is individualised, empathic, trauma informed, and supportive and affirming of all genders and neurodiversity. I aim to provide you a with safe, judgement free space, where I can be a companion on your journey to support you with making positive changes in your life. My main areas of interest include mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression, PTSD and Complex PTSD, grief support, coping with the effects of family violence, sexual abuse, and alcohol and other drugs.
(03) 8400 0534 View (03) 8400 0534
Photo of Steve Dawson, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
Steve Dawson
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
Dr Steve Dawson (Ph.D. MAPS) is a clinical psychologist of over 35 years experience who has a special interest in the assessment and treatment of ADHD and learning disability in children, adolescents and adults. He also treats adults for depression, anxiety and stress using CBT, insight oriented approaches plus Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. His PhD thesis was on the neuropsychology of ADHD. He worked as a clinical neuropsychologist at Canberra Hospital and in academia at the University of Canberra along with private practice. He then worked for a number of years in Sydney before moving his private practice to Melbourne.
Dr Steve Dawson (Ph.D. MAPS) is a clinical psychologist of over 35 years experience who has a special interest in the assessment and treatment of ADHD and learning disability in children, adolescents and adults. He also treats adults for depression, anxiety and stress using CBT, insight oriented approaches plus Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. His PhD thesis was on the neuropsychology of ADHD. He worked as a clinical neuropsychologist at Canberra Hospital and in academia at the University of Canberra along with private practice. He then worked for a number of years in Sydney before moving his private practice to Melbourne.
0413 065 218 View 0413 065 218
Photo of Tanja Ben-Meir, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Tanja Ben-Meir
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
I enjoy working with adults of all walks of life, and have gathered experience from young adults in high school settings, across the lifespan, even to the end-of-life stage. I work in a trauma-informed, client centered way integrating approaches from cognitive behavioural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy, while also utilising experiential and mindful methods.
I enjoy working with adults of all walks of life, and have gathered experience from young adults in high school settings, across the lifespan, even to the end-of-life stage. I work in a trauma-informed, client centered way integrating approaches from cognitive behavioural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy, while also utilising experiential and mindful methods.
(03) 9118 9020 View (03) 9118 9020
Photo of Benny Wong, MPsych, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist
Benny Wong
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
Benny is dedicated to creating a nurturing and understanding environment where clients feel heard, accepted and supported. He is passionate about building trusting therapeutic relationships, which he believes are essential for clients to fully express their experiences and embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Benny’s empathetic approach ensures that clients feel safe and valued, enabling them to reflect deeply and gain new insights into their lives.
Benny is dedicated to creating a nurturing and understanding environment where clients feel heard, accepted and supported. He is passionate about building trusting therapeutic relationships, which he believes are essential for clients to fully express their experiences and embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Benny’s empathetic approach ensures that clients feel safe and valued, enabling them to reflect deeply and gain new insights into their lives.
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Photo of Madeleine Chelini - Victoria Art Therapy , MA, AThR, Counsellor
Victoria Art Therapy
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
If you suffer from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, suicidal Ideation, self harm or have experienced trauma in your life, then Victoria Art therapy is the professional company that can help you achieve a clearer and positive sense of well-being. The Art Therapy work undertaken with clients, is informed by current and emerging research, that best supports people to shift and develop. We provide our clients with a ‘healing environment’, that consistently nurtures, maintains safety, security and emotional support. We deliver a number of therapeutic approaches, to ensure we are providing the best possible outcomes for our clients.
If you suffer from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, suicidal Ideation, self harm or have experienced trauma in your life, then Victoria Art therapy is the professional company that can help you achieve a clearer and positive sense of well-being. The Art Therapy work undertaken with clients, is informed by current and emerging research, that best supports people to shift and develop. We provide our clients with a ‘healing environment’, that consistently nurtures, maintains safety, security and emotional support. We deliver a number of therapeutic approaches, to ensure we are providing the best possible outcomes for our clients.
(03) 8613 3429 View (03) 8613 3429
Photo of Jacynta Hodges, MSc, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacynta Hodges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doncaster, VIC 3108
Specialising in high risk adolescents and adults, I offer contemporary psychoanalysis and EMDR resulting in powerful therapeutic benefits. Integrating several types of therapy (CBT, solution focused, problem solving), psychoanalysis informs my work in terms of the way I conceptualise the client's current problems and EMDR (as needed) results in a faster way of processing trauma. Combining these two therapies provides effective in-depth therapy with relatively brief therapy. If you have been suffering with unresolved psychological trauma, I can help you to overcome the problems that are keeping you from maximising your potential.
Specialising in high risk adolescents and adults, I offer contemporary psychoanalysis and EMDR resulting in powerful therapeutic benefits. Integrating several types of therapy (CBT, solution focused, problem solving), psychoanalysis informs my work in terms of the way I conceptualise the client's current problems and EMDR (as needed) results in a faster way of processing trauma. Combining these two therapies provides effective in-depth therapy with relatively brief therapy. If you have been suffering with unresolved psychological trauma, I can help you to overcome the problems that are keeping you from maximising your potential.
(03) 8771 4020 View (03) 8771 4020
Photo of Natascha Newton, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Natascha Newton
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
I am driven by a genuine passion to make a lasting impact in the lives of my clients. Rise wellbeing's mission is to offer personalised, high-quality supports that truly meet individual needs, while giving back to the community with affordable and accessible services. We believe in the power of evidence-based, person-centred care, creating a safe, supportive space where clients can thrive. As a registered NDIS provider, we’re also able to work with NDIS participants, offering counselling services that empower you to navigate challenges and achieve meaningful outcomes.
I am driven by a genuine passion to make a lasting impact in the lives of my clients. Rise wellbeing's mission is to offer personalised, high-quality supports that truly meet individual needs, while giving back to the community with affordable and accessible services. We believe in the power of evidence-based, person-centred care, creating a safe, supportive space where clients can thrive. As a registered NDIS provider, we’re also able to work with NDIS participants, offering counselling services that empower you to navigate challenges and achieve meaningful outcomes.
(03) 8595 5028 View (03) 8595 5028
Photo of Sharon Bard - Glasshouse reflections, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Glasshouse reflections
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Doncaster, VIC 3108
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of your disability or new medical diagnosis? ​Disability and medical diagnosis can cause deep levels of distress, uncertainty, fear and overwhelm. It is a time when lots of new medical information is being presented bringing up both familiar and unfamiliar feelings. This makes it difficult to absorb and unpack information, manage daily tasks, get quality sleep and mobilise. If you have have lived with a disability for some time you might be struggling with a new challenging life moment that is impacting on your happiness and quality of life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of your disability or new medical diagnosis? ​Disability and medical diagnosis can cause deep levels of distress, uncertainty, fear and overwhelm. It is a time when lots of new medical information is being presented bringing up both familiar and unfamiliar feelings. This makes it difficult to absorb and unpack information, manage daily tasks, get quality sleep and mobilise. If you have have lived with a disability for some time you might be struggling with a new challenging life moment that is impacting on your happiness and quality of life.
(03) 8400 0472 View (03) 8400 0472
Photo of Jamie Goodison - Inner Quest Counselling Psychotherapy, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Jamie Goodison - Inner Quest Counselling Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doncaster, VIC 3108
I offer a supportive, inclusive approach to therapy that respects your unique identity. My services are diverse and client-centered, aimed at improving mental well-being, strengthening relationships, and finding purpose in life. Together, we can work on your self-discovery and growth. Let's start this empowering journey.
I offer a supportive, inclusive approach to therapy that respects your unique identity. My services are diverse and client-centered, aimed at improving mental well-being, strengthening relationships, and finding purpose in life. Together, we can work on your self-discovery and growth. Let's start this empowering journey.
(03) 8400 0535 View (03) 8400 0535
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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.