Kelly Freitas Psychology

Get to know Kelly Freitas Psychology

From Kelly Freitas Psychology's website.

• Our approach

  The practice uses a collaborative, holistic, and strength-based, client-centred approach to create a safe, supportive environment where children can explore their emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness Skills Training are used to address underlying issues and develop personalized strategies for healing and growth. Play therapy sessions help children work through emotional, psychosocial and behavioural difficulties. The focus is on helping individuals develop tools and skills to overcome challenges, gain self-awareness, and build healthy connections with themselves and others.

• Working with families

  Family involvement is a core part of the service, with psychology sessions for children including contact with daycare, school, other therapists and doctors involved in your child's care. Parents' support sessions are offered as part of the service package. Prior informed consent is obtained to provide or receive information from other professionals or agencies such as your child's school, GP, or paediatrician, and this is discussed as part of the Consent & Release form at the beginning of treatment. The clinician works closely with families to ensure children receive the support they need, and is available to communicate about your child's progress and treatment recommendations.

• Meet the team

  The practice is led by Kelly Freitas, a registered psychologist with a Bachelor of Psychology from UFMT Brazil (2017) and a 2024 Masters in Educational and Developmental Psychology from Monash University. She has extensive training in evidence-based therapies, trauma-informed care, DBT, play therapy, and working with neurodivergent individuals. She is dedicated to improving the lives of children and adolescents through personalized, compassionate counselling and works closely with families to ensure children receive the care needed to navigate life's challenges with confidence. Her approach involves creating a safe and comfortable environment for clients and developing personalized treatment plans addressing specific needs.

• Your first visit

  The first appointment involves a psychological assessment to understand your child's specific needs and concerns. Personal information relevant to your situation is collected and recorded as part of the assessment process. Before the session, you'll complete a Consent & Release form, and the clinician will discuss third-party liaison (such as contacting your child's school, doctor or other professionals) if indicated for your child's care. Individual sessions typically run for 50+ minutes, with time allocated afterward for note-taking. If referred through Medicare's Better Access scheme, a letter will be sent to your GP after the initial appointment outlining the assessment outcome and treatment recommendations.