Child psychologist in Adelaide, for children and teens

Every child worries, but for some the worries start to shape the day: tummy aches before school, needing lots of reassurance, avoiding new places or trouble getting to sleep. Your child’s psychologist helps them name what worry feels like and take small, brave steps at a pace that feels safe, through play and stories for younger children and ideas from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for older ones. Much of the work is with you, and our psychologists can give you handouts to use between sessions.

Anxiety psychologist in Adelaide

When mornings before school become a daily battle, there is usually a reason: worry, friendship trouble, sensory overload in a busy classroom, or work that feels too hard. A psychologist works out with your child what is making school so difficult, then builds a plan with you, and with the school if you agree.

A meltdown isn’t misbehaviour: it’s what happens when a child’s nervous system is overwhelmed. Some children explode; others shut down or go quiet. A psychologist helps your child understand their feelings, spot early signs and find calming strategies that suit them, and gives you practical ideas for tricky moments at home or out. If sensory needs are part of the picture, our paediatric OTs can work alongside your child’s psychologist.

Paediatric occupational therapy

Yes, in two different ways. Therapy supports a neurodivergent child with what they find hard, such as worry, friendships or big feelings, while respecting who they are; for children with ADHD, our psychologists use a range of approaches, such as CBT, and work closely with parents on communication, social skills and emotional regulation. An assessment is separate: our assessment team assesses autism and ADHD (ADHD for ages 5 to 17). Psychologists don’t prescribe medication; your GP can refer you to a paediatrician or child psychiatrist for that.

ADHD assessments for children

Separation, a death in the family, an accident, bullying or another frightening event can change how a child sleeps, plays and behaves. Some children become clingy, some angry, some very quiet. A psychologist gives your child a safe, steady space to make sense of what happened, at their pace, and helps you understand what your child needs from you.

It’s worth talking to a psychologist when low mood, worry, school pressure, friendships, identity or online life affect sleep, school or family life for more than a few weeks. Teens do best when they choose to come, so the first conversation is about what they want. If your teen won’t come yet, the first session is usually with a parent only, and telehealth can feel easier to start with. We see teenagers aged 13 to 19. If you’re worried about their safety right now, call 000 or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.