Is Essential Psychology a registered NDIS provider?

Essential Psychology is not currently listed as a registered NDIS provider on the NDIS Commission register. They may still support plan-managed or self-managed NDIS participants — contact them to confirm.

What services does Essential Psychology provide?

Essential Psychology provides Psychology and Behavioural Support.

Which areas does Essential Psychology cover?

Essential Psychology is based in Balgowlah, NSW.

How do I connect with Essential Psychology?

You can call +61 416 470 727 and visit their website, or send an enquiry through EarlyBloom — it goes straight to the provider and is always free for families.

How do Medicare rebates for psychology work?

Your GP can prepare a Mental Health Care Plan and referral, which lets you claim a Medicare rebate for a set number of sessions per calendar year. The exact number and rebate are set by Medicare.

Do we need a referral?

Not to see a psychologist privately. A GP Mental Health Care Plan and referral are needed to claim Medicare rebates.

When should I consider a psychologist for my child?

If worries, mood, or behaviour are affecting your child's daily life, friendships, or learning, an assessment can help clarify what support would suit.

Is psychology covered by the NDIS?

It can be, where psychological support relates to a participant's disability and plan goals.

Essential Psychology · Psychology · Balgowlah, NSW

Our approach

Counselling at Essential Psychology focuses on evidence-based psychological treatments delivered in a friendly and caring environment. The practice helps children and adolescents address concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief, anger and bullying by integrating a range of evidence-based treatments tailored to individual needs. Therapists utilise approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Strength Based Counselling, Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy. Sessions provide a safe, non-judgemental space where young people are supported to tap into their strengths in order to overcome life's challenges. The nurturing and collaborative approach partners closely with families, honouring each child's unique journey.

Meet the team

Essential Psychology is led by Ashleigh Hough, the Principal Psychologist, who is a Fully Registered Educational and Developmental Psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents and families. She has worked in schools, not-for-profit organisations and paediatric medical practices, and provides psychometric and educational assessments as well as therapeutic support for anxiety, depression, grief, anger and bullying. Lara Luitingh is also on the team as a Fully Registered Psychologist with a Masters in Clinical Psychology and 15 years of experience. Lara specialises in neurodevelopmental assessments and therapeutic interventions for children and young people with anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship and social concerns, school refusal, sleep challenges, grief and academic stress.

Essential Psychology

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