A to Z Psychology

Get to know A to Z Psychology

From A to Z Psychology's website.

• Our approach

  A to Z Psychology combines evidence-based neuroscience with personalised, creative approaches that see each child as a unique person rather than a diagnostic label. Sessions draw on a range of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), play therapy, somatic therapy, and mindfulness practices. The team is guided by genuine care and empathy, ensuring every person feels heard, understood and respected. Sessions focus on equipping young people with lifelong strategies to help them overcome challenges or healthily manage their circumstances, while restoring their enjoyment and freedom in daily life. The work is designed to help realise each child's full potential and support lasting growth, resilience and stronger relationships.

• Working with families

  The provider recognises the vital role of parents and carers in children's wellbeing and offers parent behavioural training and support incorporating techniques from CBT, DBT and EMDR to enhance children's therapy. Dr Nicole Hess is particularly passionate about working with caregivers to bridge gaps in understanding when it comes to learning disabilities and neurodevelopmental differences, helping parents understand how these affect their child's experience of the world and behaviour. The team is committed to empowering caregivers and reducing stigma through education and practical strategies. Family therapy is also offered as a specific service, and the therapeutic approach is collaborative, with the understanding that supporting parents and carers is essential to a child's lasting growth and stronger relationships.

• Meet the team

  The team is led by Dr Nicole Hess (PhD Psychology, M Psych Professional, B Psych Hons, MAPS), an experienced psychologist with specialist interests in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, ADHD and learning disabilities. Rebecca Stallard is a registered psychologist (MProfPsych, DipRemedialTherapies) specialising in trauma recovery and emotional wellbeing, with over 20 years of experience including work with Defence Force families and NDIS-funded clients. The team also includes Alison, a trauma-informed somatic therapist with 10 years' experience in yoga therapy and body-based approaches, and Charlie, an AASW-accredited social worker (MSW) with over 15 years' frontline experience in mental health, child protection and family services. All team members are trained in evidence-based practice and bring specialised qualifications and extensive experience to support children's wellbeing and development.

• Your first visit

  An initial appointment begins with a 50-minute parent consultation ($250), which sets the foundation for understanding your child's needs and circumstances. During this first session, the psychologist will listen carefully to your concerns, gather relevant history, and discuss your goals for therapy. The team operates following gold-standard protocols and takes time to recognise each child as a unique person at their particular stage of life. Assessment sessions may span 120 minutes ($500) if a more comprehensive evaluation is needed, and the exact approach and cost will be tailored to your child's specific situation and quoted at the initial consultation. The aim is to create a respectful, collaborative start to the therapeutic journey.