Diverse Minds Psychology Clinic

Get to know Diverse Minds Psychology Clinic

From Diverse Minds Psychology Clinic's website.

• Our approach

  Sessions at Diverse Minds incorporate research-based therapies designed to address psychological difficulties while building on individual strengths. The clinic uses evidence-based approaches including cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, schema therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, and family therapy, tailored to each person's unique needs. Psychologists work collaboratively with clients to understand their perspective and goals, recognising that every individual is an expert in their own life. Sessions typically last 50–60 minutes for ongoing treatment, with an initial 60-minute consultation for new clients to discuss current concerns and develop a treatment plan. The approach acknowledges both strengths and challenges, aiming to help clients tackle difficulties they face in everyday life.

• Working with families

  Parents and carers are actively involved in the therapeutic process. At initial consultations, parents have dedicated time to speak with the psychologist separately from their child. During diagnostic assessments, collateral information is sought from parents, schools and other professionals (with client consent) to inform the assessment process. The clinic offers family therapy as a treatment option and provides parent training programs including Circle of Security Parenting. Group programs available include parenting and skills-based workshops designed to support families alongside their child's individual therapy. This collaborative approach ensures families are integrated partners in the treatment plan.

• Meet the team

  The team comprises clinical psychologists and registered psychologists with extensive qualifications and specialised experience. Clinic Director Steve Den-Kaat (MSc Psych, PGDip ClinPsych) specialises in autism spectrum conditions and has 19 years' experience supporting families. Dr Ramona Toscano (DClinPsych) is a senior clinical consultant with expertise in anxiety, mood disorders, autism and ADHD, trained in CBT, ACT and mindfulness-based approaches. Jennifer Ma and Madeleine Makinson are clinical psychologists skilled in evidence-based therapies including CBT, ACT, DBT and schema therapy, with particular interests in supporting neurodivergent clients. Rivqa Rafael and Luke Ferrantino are clinical psychology registrars trained in multiple evidence-based modalities and committed to neuroaffirming, person-centred care. Lucas Knight is a registered psychologist with school psychology experience. All staff are registered with the Psychology Board of Australia and several are trained facilitators of specialised social skills and parenting programs.

• Your first visit

  At a first appointment (one-off problem-solving consultation lasting 60 minutes), the psychologist gathers background information to understand current issues and concerns. There is dedicated time for parents to speak with the psychologist separately if the client is a child or adolescent, as well as one-on-one time for the client with the psychologist. During the session, strategies and goals for therapy are discussed, and an ongoing treatment plan is developed if required. This initial consultation allows the psychologist to understand the client's situation thoroughly and plan the best approach moving forward.