Psychology

Dr Lisa Brice, Clinical Psychologist

Lisa is a clinical psychologist. She completed her Doctorate and Masters in psychology at Yeshiva University, New York. She also has a Masters of Social Science Degree from the City University of New York and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Queensland. Lisa has formal training in implementing the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2 (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview™, Revised (ADI™-R).

In New York Lisa worked at the Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine Early Childhood Centre providing a range of psychological assessments and services. She has also worked at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead in Sydney providing a range of therapeutic services to children. While there, she co-authored and taught the parent and teacher component of the Westmead Feelings Program for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. This program, adopted by the Department of Education and Training NSW, is the culmination of 5 years of research, 3 pilot studies and a randomised controlled trial. This program has been published by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER). At Asperger Services Australia (ASA) Lisa provided a broad spectrum of clinical services for children, adolescents and adults, with problems that include physical, developmental and learning disabilities. Lisa is currently the Director of Spectrum Services at Toowong.

Gillian Day, Clinical Psychologist

Gillian is a clinical psychologist who is passionate about helping her clients regain a sense of control and direction in their lives. Gillian is a compassionate and approachable therapist who creates a safe and supportive space for her clients, and their families, to explore their current challenges and look for creative, compassionate ways to overcome them. With a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Australian Catholic University she is formally trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and has clinical experience using Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology techniques with her clients. Throughout her training she has worked with neurodiverse children, adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, substance abuse, anger and grief. Prior to becoming a psychologist Gillian worked as a social worker in the mental health sector, supporting people living complex mental health issues.

Natalia Brunetti, Clinical Psychologist

Natalia is a Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings at the Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital. She specializes in supporting children, adolescents, and young adults with a range of mental health conditions, including Depression, Mood Disorders, and various Anxiety Disorders such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Social Anxiety Disorder. Natalia is trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), allowing her to adapt her style to meet the specific needs of each client.

Natalia has a particular interest in working with individuals diagnosed with neurodevelopmental conditions, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). She is committed to providing compassionate care to neurodivergent individuals, helping them navigate the unique challenges they face.

Natalia is skilled in conducting comprehensive assessments for ASD and ADHD. She administers psychoeducational assessments for learning difficulties, specific learning disorders, and intellectual disabilities. Natalia is also trained in the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), enabling her to conduct detailed diagnostic assessments for autism in children, adolescents, and young adults.

Shamika Perera, Psychologist

Shamika is a registered Psychologist who uses a compassionate and friendly approach to support clients of all ages to achieve their goals. Shamika completed her Masters of Professional Psychology in Melbourne, and has worked with diverse populations with various presenting concerns, cultures and backgrounds. Shamika has particular strengths in working with teenagers and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Shamika has training in cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy, and has worked for many years supporting individuals on the Autism Spectrum, as well as people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Shamika has also previously worked as a Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner and is experienced with managing challenging behaviours. Shamika is proud to provide a safe, comfortable, and inclusive environment for her clients regardless of age, gender identity, sexuality, or ability.

Kelly Watson, Psychologist

Kelly is a registered psychologist with an Honours degree in Psychological Science from the University of Queensland and has a comprehensive background in supporting not only teenagers and adults on the Autism Spectrum but also individuals with various developmental disabilities. Kelly is known for her warm and collaborative approach. She is dedicated to providing a secure and supportive environment that nurtures her clients’ sense of safety, encourages the development of skills and strategies, and helps them accomplish their goals. Utilising tailored cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) techniques, she is adept at addressing the unique needs of her clients. With extensive experience in supporting individuals with developmental disorders, Kelly is particularly effective in helping clients navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and grief. Kelly is committed to professional development and keeps abreast of the latest research in psychological science to enhance her practice. She values the importance of continuous learning and applies evidence-based strategies to support her clients’ growth and well-being. She is available to assist clients on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 am to 4 pm.

Martin Ayres, Psychologist

Martin is a registered psychologist who provides therapeutic interventions and comprehensive psychometric evaluations, with a strong focus on supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). His experience spans working with teenagers and adults, guiding them through the intricacies of mood, adjustment, and trauma-related challenges. Martin places an emphasis on building a strong therapeutic partnership with his clients, tailoring his approach to encourage a comfortable and goal-driven therapeutic environment. He adjusts his strategies to suit each individual, drawing from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) as needed. These personalised adjustments ensure that each client receives the most appropriate and effective treatment.

In addition to providing therapeutic services, Martin brings extensive experience in conducting assessments for individuals across the lifespan and adeptly navigating the specific requirements of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). He offers a comprehensive service designed to support families and individuals on their NDIS journey. With an enduring passion for aiding those on the autism spectrum and a dedication to helping his clients achieve their aspirations, Martin is eager to welcome you into a partnership geared towards positive change and personal growth. Available Monday, Tuesdays and Wednesday mornings.

Raichelle D’Silva, Psychologist

Raichelle is a fully registered psychologist who enjoys working collaboratively with clients to facilitate positive growth and change. She has extensive experience providing evidence-based interventions and comprehensive psychometric evaluations. Throughout the course of her career, she has worked across the lifespan with a range of presentations including neurodevelopmental disorders (including ASD, ADHD), mood disorders including anxiety and depression, eating disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, substance use related disorders and personality disorders. She is especially suited to supporting children, adolescents, and their families, having worked in Queensland Health’s Child and Youth Mental Health Services (CYMHS) delivering care to individuals with complex needs.

She is person-centered in her approach, tailoring each session in a flexible yet affirming manner utilising various evidence-based psychological techniques. These include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Solution focused therapy, Mindfulness-based and Play therapy interventions. She is formally trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and has a particular interest in the treatment of trauma and stressor related disorders.

Lorilea Huon, Psychologist

Lorilea is a compassionate and warm clinician who encourages clients to see their strengths, be empowered in their care and prides herself on providing a nurturing environment; regardless of your concerns or background.

Lorilea is a registered psychologist, having completed her Masters of Educational and Developmental Psychology at Queensland University of Technology. Lorilea has a broad knowledge from years of volunteering, training and employment experience in diverse, presenting difficulties, ages (children, teen and adults), cultures, backgrounds and communities (such as LGBQTI). Settings include hospitals, schools, private practices, at home support, and in residential rehabilitation treatment. Lorilea has provided support for children from 3 years-old to mature age, both individual and group treatment and parenting support (from infant to adolescence). Lorilea has experience with diverse presenting issues, including anxiety and depression, learning difficulties, grief and loss, self-esteem and body image issues, attachment issues, OCD, anger, perfectionism, sexual concerns, PTSD, adjustment issues, stress and burnout, sleep disorders, executive functioning concerns as well as chronic pain and injury.

Lorilea has a particular interest and experience in supporting people with autism, addiction, trauma and relationship concerns. Lorilea utilises various evidence -based treatment tools and strategies and treatments including mindfulness strategies, cognitive behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, attachment focused – e.g. circle of security training, and emotion focused therapy, which is also compassion focused and trauma informed.

Jenny Xu, Psychologist

Jenny is an Educational and Developmental Psychologist. She has practised across private clinics, primary schools, and hospital, delivering psychological support for children, adolescents and adults, as well as carrying out psychometric assessments for children and adolescents to inform intervention.Jenny uses a holistic approach that cultivates a warm and nurturing environment to assist clients to improve their mental health. She has extensive experience and is passionate about supporting children, adolescents and their families to make necessary changes to make life more rewarding and fulfilling. In her previous private practice settings, Jenny mainly worked with children with complex issues, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, anger issues, trauma background, and attachment issues.Jenny values parents’ contribution and finds ways to connect with them so they can feel supported to support their child in their everyday life together. She is trained in evidence-based parenting programmes including Triple P, Circle of Security and 123 Magic. Jenny is also fluent in Mandarin/Chinese.

Occupational Therapy

Georgia Werndly, Occupational Therapist

Georgia is an accredited practicing Occupational Therapist who is passionate about working with people of all ages to overcome barriers to their engagement in meaningful activities. Georgia has a passion for providing Occupational Therapy services in the community to people of all ages living with developmental disorders including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD and Intellectual Impairment. Georgia can help people improve their ability to across a number of areas including personal care activities (e.g. getting dressed or brushing their teeth), accessing the community and using transport, sensory processing, emotional regulation, money management skills, shopping, handwriting and leisure activities (just to name a few!). Georgia can identify a person’s strengths and barriers through clinical observations, detailed task analysis, functional and cognitive capacity assessment, environmental and sensory processing assessments. Georgia can assist in implementing evidence based strategies including routine based intervention, environmental adaptation, functional skill retraining, emotional and sensory regulation strategies and equipment prescription to help a person overcome barriers to their participation in activities. Georgia loves getting to know what people are really passionate about and helping them pursue these interests further. In her spare time, Georgia enjoys going hiking, doing yoga, going to the beach, gardening and DJing.

Alex Hobbs, Occupational Therapist

Alex is a passionate Occupational Therapist with over a decade of experience across various settings. She is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their goals and can support them in discovering their strengths and potential. Alex assists in overcoming challenges to enhance people’s functioning, participation, and independence in life. She has experience and a particular interest in working with neurodivergent individuals and is dedicated to a holistic, inclusive, and evidence-based approach.

Alex supports clients by using formal assessments to assist with their goals and provide outcome measures. She also offers tailored approaches and techniques such as sensory processing and interoception, transitioning and change management, energy and capacity management, sleep hygiene, self-esteem and social connection, executive functioning support, vocational support, life skills and activities of daily living, emotional regulation, and more. Alex has experience working across disability and neuro-rehabilitation, can provide workplace-related assessments and adjustments, and has training in persistent pain management. In her free time, Alex enjoys being with loved ones. She is a keen runner and hits the gym most days of the week. She enjoys music, audiobooks, and travel. Alex is an OT for teens and adults and works Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. She offers face-to-face and telehealth appointments.

Anna Cronau, Occupational Therapist

Anna is a registered Occupational Therapist, who is passionate about supporting the developmental, educational, and independence needs of children and young adults. After graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Queensland, Anna has developed a rich professional background, particularly in working with individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. She also has experience in addressing a variety of learning disorders, such as Dyslexia and Dysgraphia. In her practice, Anna emphasises creating a nurturing and secure environment, where her clients can comfortably share and embrace their unique strengths, interests, and values. This approach is integral to her methodology, as it allows her to tailor her therapeutic strategies to each individual’s needs, encouraging them to overcome challenges and barriers in their journey towards achieving personal goals. Anna continually seeks to integrate innovative methods and evidence-based practices to enhance her clients’ learning experiences. She is committed to ongoing professional development, staying abreast of the latest research and advancements in her field, which enables her to provide the highest standard of care. This dedication to her profession and her clients underscores Anna’s role as a compassionate, competent, and highly respected Occupational Therapist.

Jo Too, Occupational Therapist

Jo is an occupational therapist passionate about working collaboratively to ensure her clients can engage and feel confident to participate in meaningful activities. Jo completed her Masters of Occupational Therapy at the University of Queensland. Since then, she has several years of experience practicing in community-based OT, providing assessments and ongoing therapeutic support for both children and adults from all walks of life. In her previous private practice settings, Jo has mainly worked with populations with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, and Intellectual Impairment. Jo loves approaching Occupational Therapy with a holistic and strength-based lens to empower others. In her free time, Jo’s interests include playing various sports, cooking, and having loved ones over for board games! Available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in clinic, in home, in community or via Telehealth.

SPEECH THERAPY

Lucy Laaja, Speech Pathologist

Lucy obtained her Bachelor of Speech Pathology from the University of Queensland in 2009. She is a speech pathologist who provides services to children, young people and adults with dysphagia, pragmatic language deficits and communication impairments associated with a variety of diagnoses including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Rett Syndrome and Intellectual Impairment. Lucy works with clients, their families and significant others to establish meaningful and holistic NDIS goals and to achieve these through therapeutic input.

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Steven Girgis, Physiotherapist

Steven is a friendly and approachable physiotherapist with a strong passion for enhancing the quality of life of neurodiverse children, teenagers and adults. His calm demeanour and diligent work ethic create a comfortable and supportive environment for his patients. Having earned his Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) from Griffith University, Steven works to cultivate a deep understanding of the unique needs of his clients. He concentrates on developing personalised therapeutic strategies that promote mobility, reduce pain, improve coordination, and foster social interaction through movement. Steven believes in a compassionate, evidence-based approach, empowering his clients and their families with education and support to navigate daily challenges. His commitment to continuous learning ensures that he remains at the forefront of therapeutic advancements. Steven is not just a healthcare provider but a steadfast advocate for those with autism, working tirelessly to create inclusive environments that celebrate every individual’s capabilities. Available Wednesdays

Carrie

Our centre’s kind and attentive practice manager. She is a fantastic problem solver and ensures the office runs efficiently.

Velcro and Pingu

Our very handsome and slightly overweight (just big boned) therapy dogs. Velcro and Pingu are Brussels Griffins. Notably, George Lucas has 3 Brussels Griffon dogs and he has stated that this breed is the inspiration for Chewbacca and the Ewoks.

Velcro and Pingu work hard to make everyone at the office feel comfortable and safe. They love belly rubs and have a terrible habit of snoring.