I am passionate about providing support to families who have an Autistic member. I have spent the past decade working for an autism specific school, a well-respected organisation specifically designed to provide education to Autistic students. During this time, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in understanding autism. My classroom experience, as well as academic training in psychology and counselling have enabled me to create a service for families that provides immediate support and clarity in an often-overwhelming time in their lives. My aim is to support families in navigating and understanding what autism is and how to support their Autistic child to thrive.
I believe that parents are the experts on their children and their needs. I work collaboratively with families to bridge the gap between getting a diagnosis and understanding autism and their child’s needs. I provide a range of a support from understanding the diagnosis, providing counselling for emotional support and any grief associated with the diagnosis, behaviour support, visual tools to improve communication, emotional regulation and be there for emotional support for the family.
Over the last 12 months I have been working towards a certification in Play Therapy from the Queensland Institute of Play Therapy. This allows me to incorporate more play into my sessions allowing children a way to communicate using their most natural form of communication, play.
I am married and a mum of two boys, and I enjoy getting outside and swimming, playing cricket and AFL. I love working with people and building meaningful relationships with clients to help them move towards a future that they wish for.
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in psychology (Hons)
- Master of Teaching (Primary)
- Diploma of counselling (with majors in Grief and Loss, Effective Parenting and Family Therapy)