Psychological Assessment and Therapy Centre

Get to know Psychological Assessment and Therapy Centre

From Psychological Assessment and Therapy Centre's website.

• Our approach

  Psychological Assessment and Therapy Centre takes a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach centred on families and neuro-affirming practice. Sessions are tailored to each child's unique needs, strengths and interests, using evidence-based techniques that may include play-based activities, practical skill-building, and problem-solving. The team works across settings—therapy rooms, schools and homes—to ensure children are supported in everyday contexts. Therapy is designed to feel engaging and meaningful, building confidence and independence while respecting who each child is.

• Working with families

  The centre is family-focused and works with parents throughout the entire journey from assessment through individual and group supports. Parents are involved in the initial assessment discussion, consulted about testing decisions and costs, and included in feedback sessions to understand their child's strengths and needs. The team also provides dedicated parent/carer sessions offering education, behaviour management strategies and support to implement functional approaches at home. Clinicians work collaboratively with families, educators and other professionals to ensure children are supported consistently across all settings.

• Meet the team

  The team includes registered psychologists with expertise in cognitive, learning, autism and ADHD assessments (Erin Preece, Jenna Williams, Oscar Mackeechnie and Amanda), a provisional psychologist (Matisse Perez) supervised by the lead psychologist, speech pathologists with 15+ years' experience in paediatric and adolescent work (Meagan Smith, Alyssa Murray and Jess Hinrichsen), occupational therapists, and social workers trained in play therapy (Sam Sharrock, Alysia Wright and senior clinician Andie Patton). All are registered with relevant professional bodies including AHPRA, Speech Pathology Australia and the Australian Association of Social Workers.

• Your first visit

  The initial phase begins with discussion about your child's strengths and areas of need. The psychologist will then work with you to determine which formal tests are required to meet your needs, discuss costs associated with the assessment process, and obtain your approval before proceeding. A psychological assessment typically includes an interview with the parent or person being assessed, data collection from previous professional reports, formal standardised testing, and feedback on the findings. You can also schedule a consultation with an experienced clinician if you're unsure about what assessment you need or feel overwhelmed by the process.