Paediatric Counselling

Counselling for children, adolescents and young people aged 8+ using developmentally appropriate approaches to help them make sense of their emotions, experiences and relationships.

  • Emotion regulation

  • Behaviour concerns

  • Discipline and conflict resolution

  • Attachment and bonding

  • Self-esteem

  • School avoidance

  • Technology use

  • Early intervention for emerging mental health concerns like anxiety and depression

The Therapy Process

1
Parent/Carer Initial Consultation

The first session is with the parent or carer without the child present. I learn about your child’s personality, history and environment, identify main concerns and clarify what you’d like support with.

2
Child Assessment

This is the first time your child and I meet each other! We get to know each other, build rapport, and I get to understand their world through conversation and play. At the same time, I’m keeping an eye out for their strengths, concerns and goals.

3
Therapy Plan

Together, we develop a shared understanding of what’s going on and agree on a plan of support. This formulation is collaborative and flexible and may evolve as therapy progresses.

4
Therapy Sessions

Children’s sessions run for 40 minutes, followed by a 10-minute debrief with parents or carers. Debriefs focus on themes, progress and practical ways to support your child between sessions.

5
Parent/Carer Support Sessions

Dedicated parent/carer-only sessions to check in on progress, reflect on what’s working and address any new concerns. These sessions allow us to adjust the plan or change direction if needed.

6
Maintenance or Discharge

As goals are met, we plan for either reduced support or a supported discharge. The aim is for families to feel confident continuing without ongoing therapy.

Get in touch

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes, children can access counselling with a Mental Health Treatment Plan from their GP or paediatrician, and a parent or carer will be listed as the Medicare claimant for rebates.

  • No, MHTPs include up to two parent/carer sessions per calendar year. These sessions are counted as part of your child’s maximum of 10 rebated sessions per year.

  • Yes, I welcome NDIS participants! As the NDIS supports people with lifelong disabilities, therapy is typically longer-term and focuses on improving daily functioning, building capacity, and supporting the child and family system.

  • To access Medicare rebates, please see your GP or paediatrician for a Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral, which they can send to me directly. If your child is an NDIS participant, you can self-refer by completing this referral form.

  • I usually recommend weekly or fortnightly sessions to help build routine, safety and momentum. Frequency can be adjusted to suit your family’s needs, including during school holidays or busy periods.

  • Yes. Many adolescents value privacy and independence, and this is respected. I still aim to keep parents appropriately informed through brief check-ins or review sessions, while maintaining your child’s confidentiality and sense of safety.

  • With your consent, I can liaise with schools, GPs, or other professionals involved in your child’s care to support consistency and shared understanding.

Get in touch

Make a referral

I’m currently accepting new referrals. If you would like to go ahead and book your first appointment, please first complete this referral form.

Make an enquiry

It may feel a little overwhelming when you first reach out for support. Many people feel uncertain about what to expect. It can be helpful to have an initial 15-minute chat to ask questions and see if you feel comfortable working together. If you would like to do this, please leave your details in the contact form here and I will contact you to arrange a time to chat. Thanks!