Meet The Team

​Katherine is an experienced child and family clinical psychologist, with a lived experience of neurodivergence. She works effectively with children of all ages, teenagers and parents, enabling individuals and families to achieve greater wellbeing. She has worked in primary, secondary and tertiary education settings, providing a range of assessments, interventions and counselling. Katherine has a passion for working with children who experienced severe trauma and disrupted attachments, such as those who have been involved in the Child Protection and Youth Justice systems, providing skilled assessment and therapeutic interventions. She provides case consultations to care teams and foster care services. ​Katherine has training in contemporary psychodynamic frameworks, schema therapy, family work, cognitive and behavioural therapy, collaborative and proactive solutions, trauma informed interventions and play therapy. Katherine has an strong interest in Autism and neurodivergence provides neurodevelopmental assessments for kids, young people and adults. Katherine is a board approved supervisor (clinical endorsement) as is passionate about helping new clinicians learn about neurodiversity affirming work practices. ​ Katherine has developed our new CALM GUIDES parenting program designed to help parents balance connected and attuned care giving with effective boundaries and leadership to support neurodivergent families.  Katherine runs our parenting group programs and supervises the team. She is not taking new therapy or assessment referrals.

Betul (pronounced “beh-tool”) is a clinical psychologist with lived experience of neurodivergence. She has worked across community health, education, youth services and private practice, and has extensive experience supporting children, adolescents, adults and families presenting with a broad range of challenges. Betul also supports clients accessing psychological services through Victims of Crime pathways. Betul takes a warm, collaborative and compassionate approach to therapy. Her practice is neurodiversity-affirming, strengths-based and culturally responsive, with therapy tailored to each person’s individual needs, values and goals. She draws on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT-E) for eating disorders, Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based interventions and play therapy. Alongside therapy, Betul conducts comprehensive Autism, ADHD and psychoeducational assessments with children, adolescents and adults, supporting clients and families to better understand their strengths and support needs. Betul is also an AHPRA Board Approved Supervisor and provides collaborative and supportive supervision to early-career psychologists. She is fluent in English and Turkish.

Luke is a psychologist who has been involved with Family Minded for several years. He provides therapy predominantly to teens, parents and adults, alongside clinical assessment work including autism, ADHD, cognitive and psychoeducational assessments. Luke holds a Master’s degree and is a registrar working towards endorsement as an Educational and Developmental Psychologist. He has experience working with children, adults and families across both therapy and assessment. Luke draws primarily on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness, Compassion-Focused Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy. His approach is collaborative, practical and non-judgemental, with a focus on helping clients develop greater flexibility in managing thoughts and emotions and move towards what matters most to them. Luke provides parent-focused support and works with adults experiencing anxiety, depression and significant life transitions, as well as adults exploring and understanding their own neurodivergence. He also has particular experience in the assessment of autism, ADHD, Specific Learning Disorders and intellectual developmental disorder across children and adults. Luke offers face-to-face and telehealth therapy for teens, adults and parents. In his spare time, Luke enjoys exercising, watching sport, indulging his sweet tooth, and playing with his young son. Luke sees clients on Mondays and Tuesdays in Sunbury and via Telehealth.

Catherine is a psychologist who works with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She enjoys working with people navigating trauma and trauma-related difficulties, OCD, anxiety, depression, adjustment challenges, and stress, as well as supporting neurodivergent individuals. Her work has included private, community, and hospital settings, including child and family clinics, perinatal services, and psycho-oncology care. She has also supported clients through funding schemes including TAC, and VOCAT/FAS. Coming to therapy can feel uneasy. Catherine aims to take a person-centred approach and brings a curious and compassionate mind to the therapy space. To start with, it involves exploring past experiences, what has been feeling difficult, and what has brought someone to seek support. From there, she and her clients can work towards understanding what is happening and what feels most helpful or meaningful to focus on. Her work is informed by evidence-based approaches including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), parts-based work, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She draws on these approaches flexibly depending on the person and what they are working on. She is EMDR-trained in working with adults, with additional training in adapting EMDR for children and neurodivergent individuals. She is fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese, and English

Fiona is an psychologist with lived experience of neurodivergence. Fiona holds a Masters Degree is working towards endorsement as an Educational Developmental Psychologist In addition to her evidence-based approach to mental health intervention, Fiona is very passionate about supporting neurodiverse kids, teens and adults to understand themselves and develop their skills and abilities. Fiona is also committed to supporting families and schools to develop neurodiversity-affirming approaches to managing challenging behaviours while supporting children to develop positive identities and self-esteem. Fiona has worked in school settings and private practice delivering interventions and administering assessments. Fiona has worked with a range of clients and draws from various therapy approaches, including cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and play therapy. In her spare time, Fiona enjoys spending time with her family, gardening and playing board games.

Michael is a psychologist who works with children, adolescents and adults. He has experience supporting clients across the lifespan in private practice and clinical settings, with a particular interest in anxiety, depression, stress, emotional regulation and neurodivergence. Michael has a Master of Professional Psychology, together with Honours and undergraduate qualifications in Psychological Science. He is particularly interested in working with autistic and ADHD children, teens and adults, using a neurodiversity-affirming approach that recognises individual differences, strengths and support needs. Michael’s therapeutic approach is calm, collaborative and practical. He aims to create a space where clients feel heard and supported while developing greater self-understanding, confidence and skills for navigating challenges in everyday life. He draws primarily on evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), tailoring therapy to each client’s individual needs, goals and circumstances. Michael is fluent in Vietnamese and English. Michael sees children, teens and adults for therapy. Sunbury – Monday & Tuesday Sydenham – Friday

Vanessa is a warm and engaging psychologist who works with children, adolescents, adults and families. She has experience across clinic and school settings, providing therapy, assessments and parent support. Vanessa holds a Master’s degree and is working towards endorsement in Educational and Developmental Psychology. She supports children and adolescents with anxiety, low mood, emotional regulation difficulties, self-esteem concerns and neurodivergence, as well as adults experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship stress and significant life transitions. Vanessa also has experience supporting clients with mild to moderate eating disorders and has undertaken training in CBT-E, an evidence-based treatment for eating disorders. Vanessa works from a neurodiversity-affirming and systemic framework, with a strong interest in understanding each person within the context of their strengths, needs, relationships and environment. She values working collaboratively with families and schools to strengthen connection, co-regulation and resilience. Her therapeutic approach draws on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, play-based approaches, CBT-E and EMDR. Vanessa brings warmth, collaboration and playfulness to her work and aims to create a supportive space where clients feel understood and able to work towards meaningful change. Vanessa sees children, teens, adults and parents for therapy. Sydenham – Monday & Tuesday Sunbury – Wednesday

Katerina is a psychologist who works with children, adolescents, adults and families. She has completed a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology and has experience across school and private practice settings, providing therapy, assessment and parent support. Katerina has a strong interest in working with neurodivergent clients, including autistic and ADHD children, teens and adults, as well as people with learning difficulties. She also supports clients experiencing anxiety, low mood, emotional regulation difficulties, self-esteem concerns and other challenges affecting wellbeing. Katerina has undertaken training in CBT-E and has a particular interest in supporting clients with mild to moderate eating disorders. Her approach is client-centred, non-judgemental and strengths-focused. Katerina aims to create a safe and welcoming space where clients can better understand themselves, explore their experiences and strengths, and work collaboratively towards meaningful goals. She draws on evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), play-based approaches and CBT-E, adapting therapy to each client’s needs and developmental stage. Outside the clinic, Katerina enjoys cooking and trying new recipes, watching movies, playing video games and exploring new restaurants around Melbourne. Katerina sees children, teens, adults and parents for therapy. Sunbury – Monday to Friday

Sam is a psychologist with several years experience working with a wide variety of clients. He is passionate about providing person-centred, evidence-based therapy and has experience across a range of therapy techniques such as CBT, ACT, and Schema Therapy. He also has experience in working with clients who are recovering from trauma. Sam incorporates play-based approaches and family-based interventions for younger children and their families. Sam has particular interest in working with adults and adolescents with anxiety and mood difficulties. He enjoys supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Sam also has an interest in working with adults and older adolescents who are experiencing difficulties with disordered eating and body image, or who are at risk of developing an eating disorder. In his spare time, Sam enjoys playing basketball, reading, spending time outdoors, and playing video games. Sam sees children, teens and adults. ​He is in the Sunbury clinic Tuesday, Thursday & Friday

Kellie is a child and family psychologist with 15 years experience, who also has a Masters in Play Therapy from Deakin University. As a qualified Play Therapist Kellie uses the therapeutic powers of play to assist children with a variety of difficulties including emotional regulation, social skills and coping with stressors at home and at school. Kellie started her psychology career in early intervention and has worked as a school psychologist for the NSW Department of Education, with a special interest in play and the impacts on early education. Kellie enjoys working with young children and their families to help strengthen relationships and assist with building essential play skills to achieve social, emotional and academic competence. Kellie provides play therapy for children up to late primary school age. Sunbury - Wednesdays and Fridays

Marielle is a psychologist who works with children, teenagers, adults and families, with a particular interest in supporting children and young people. She has experience working with neurodivergent children and teenagers, as well as clients experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional regulation difficulties, behavioural challenges, adjustment difficulties and other concerns affecting wellbeing. She also has experience conducting cognitive, Specific Learning Disorder (SLD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessments. Marielle understands that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process and takes the time to understand each client’s individual experiences, strengths, needs and goals. Her approach is warm, collaborative and down-to-earth, with a focus on creating a safe and inclusive space where clients feel comfortable, understood and supported. Marielle tailors her approach to each client’s age, developmental stage, personality and individual needs, using strategies and language that are meaningful and appropriate for them. She draws on evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness, alongside creative, strengths-based and play-informed strategies when working with children and teenagers. She also enjoys working collaboratively with parents, schools and other professionals to support young people across different environments. Outside of work, Marielle enjoys spending time with family and friends, trying new restaurants and cafés, cooking, reading and unwinding with a good TV series.

Shikha is a dedicated provisional psychologist with over six years of experience working as a psychologist in child, family, and educational psychology in India. She is now undertaking a 12 month internship as a provisional psychologist in Australia to learn about the context and systems in Australia. Shikha is passionate about supporting children with special needs, learning disabilities, and behavioral challenges, using a compassionate and evidence-based approach to promote emotional well-being. Shikha works closely with families and educators to design personalized interventions that help clients overcome challenges and thrive. Outside of her professional role, Shikha enjoys travelling, camping, and immersing herself in nature, activities that inspire her perspective on balance and mindfulness. A lover of music, Shikha finds joy in listening to diverse genres as a way to recharge and stay connected to creativity. With her academic achievements, commitment to empathy, and passion for holistic development, Shikha strives to strengthen family connections and foster growth in every individual with whom she works. Shikha is fluent in Hindi and English, and conversational in Marathi, offering culturally responsive care to families who value support in their preferred language. ​ Shikha is currently on Parental Leave.

Khadijah is a psychologist who works with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. She has several years of experience across educational and private practice settings and has completed postgraduate training in counselling. Khadijah supports clients with a broad range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem and emotional regulation difficulties, relationship and family challenges, and personality-related concerns. She also has experience administering psychological assessments. Her approach is warm, compassionate and strengths-focused. Khadijah works collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful and achievable goals, adapting therapy to each person’s needs, circumstances and communication style. Khadijah draws on evidence-based and trauma-informed approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, mindfulness-based strategies and play-based approaches. She is particularly passionate about supporting neurodivergent individuals and creating a therapeutic space where each person’s strengths, needs and lived experience are recognised and valued. Outside of work, Khadijah enjoys keeping active at the gym, catching up on Netflix and spending time with her family. Khadijah sees children, teens, adults, couples and parents for therapy. Sydenham – Monday evenings Sydenham – Saturday mornings

Varda is an Educational and Developmental Psychologist, Clinical Psychology Registrar and Board Approved Supervisor. She has several years of experience with Family Minded and has also worked across educational, community health and private practice settings. Varda works with children, adolescents, adults and families and has extensive experience supporting neurodivergent clients through both therapy and assessment. She also works with parents and families and has experience supporting women through the perinatal period, including emotional and mental health concerns during pregnancy and postpartum. Her approach is warm, client-centred and collaborative, drawing on family systems, trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming and culturally responsive practice. Varda draws on evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based approaches, Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) and play-based therapy. Varda has experience working with people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and is fluent in English and Urdu. Varda sees children, teens, adults and parents for therapy and assessment. Sunbury – Saturday mornings

Joan is a Provisional Psychologist completing her Master of Clinical Psychology at Federation University. She works with children, adolescents and adults across a range of emotional, developmental and psychological concerns. Joan has several years of experience supporting autistic children and young people, including those with developmental, behavioural, attention and learning needs. She also works with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship stress, life transitions and other challenges affecting wellbeing. Her approach is warm, collaborative and strengths-focused, drawing on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, play-based approaches and emerging Schema Therapy skills. Outside of psychology, Joan has been dancing for more than 20 years and also enjoys travelling, K-pop and anime. Joan works with children, teens and adults. Sunbury – Monday, Alt Thursday & Friday Sydenham - Alt Thursday In 2027, Joan will join Family Minded full-time as a Registered Psychologist and Clinical Psychology Registrar across Sunbury and Sydenham.

Jyoti is a Provisional Psychologist who works with children, adolescents and families. She completed a Master’s degree in Psychology in India and brings more than five years of experience in psychology, with a particular focus on neurodevelopmental, learning and intellectual difficulties. She is currently completing a Master of Psychology (Clinical) at Federation University Australia. Jyoti has a strong interest in early intervention and supporting neurodivergent children and young people, including those with learning and intellectual difficulties. She also works collaboratively with parents and families across a range of emotional, behavioural and socio-cultural concerns. Her approach is warm, strengths-focused and individualised. Jyoti draws on evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), social skills interventions and therapeutic psychoeducation. Jyoti values culturally responsive practice and working sensitively with people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. She is fluent in Hindi, Malayalam and English. Outside of psychology, Jyoti enjoys travelling, reading, spending time with loved ones and being involved in community activities. Jyoti is also fluent in Hindi and Malayalam. Jyoti works with children, teens and parents. Sydenham – Friday Sunbury – Saturday

David has worked in the youth work and welfare sector for the past 25 years. His experience includes residential care, outreach support, service coordination, and, more recently, managing programs and staff supporting young people at risk. Throughout his career, David has worked alongside children, young people and their families to support daily living tasks, community participation and recreational activities, while also helping address barriers to accessing services and education and working towards positive outcomes. Outside of work, David is a keen artist who enjoys painting landscapes in watercolour and acrylics. He also enjoys the occasional game of golf, gardening and camping, and shares his home with two cats and a dog. Alongside his professional experience supporting children and young people with a range of support needs, David also brings personal understanding of neurodivergence, with autism and ADHD present within his family.

Maddy is the friendly face at our front desk and the helpful voice on the other end of the phone. As our office administrator and client liaison, she plays a key role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations of the clinic and providing support to both clients and clinicians. Maddy holds a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), which she completed in 2024, and is currently taking a break from her studies. With a background in allied health administration as well as psychology and a genuine passion for supporting mental health care, Maddy brings warmth, professionalism, and a compassionate approach to her role.