Dr. Anita Chila | Clinical Child Psychologist

Get to know Dr. Anita Chila | Clinical Child Psychologist

From Dr. Anita Chila | Clinical Child Psychologist's website.

• Our approach

  Dr. Chila uses evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to each child's unique needs, primarily integrating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy, and a person-centred, strengths-based approach. Sessions focus on helping children challenge unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, develop coping skills, and build psychological flexibility. Techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation, social skills training, and positive behavioural support are employed depending on the child's presenting difficulties. For children with ADHD, autism, anxiety or other conditions, strategies are tailored to their specific needs and goals.

• Working with families

  Parent and carer involvement is an important part of treatment. Sessions with parents are provided to help them understand their child's difficulties and learn how to implement strategies at home. For issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism, parent sessions are offered to support the application of therapeutic strategies and improve communication. Dr. Chila can also coordinate school meetings when needed to promote engagement in activities, encourage healthy routines, and implement educational modifications that support your child's progress and overall well-being.

• Meet the team

  Dr. Anita Chila is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience in providing compassionate and evidence-based mental health care. She holds a Doctor of Psychology (Clinical) degree earned in 2009 and has received comprehensive training in assessment, diagnosis, and psychotherapy with a focus on research-based interventions. Her clinical experience spans various settings including public mental health services and private practice, with extensive expertise in working with children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, intellectual disability, anxiety, depression, and diverse disabilities through the NDIS.

• Your first visit

  At the first appointment, Dr. Chila works collaboratively with you to identify and help you understand the underlying issues affecting your child. During this initial session, she gathers information about your child's difficulties and begins to develop a tailored treatment plan based on their unique needs. This assessment process is the foundation for ongoing support, allowing Dr. Chila to understand your child's strengths, challenges, and goals so that evidence-based interventions can be matched to what will work best for them. The aim is to create a clear pathway forward for addressing your child's mental health concerns.