Blog
R U OK? Checking In When You’re Neurodivergent
R U OK? Day reminds us of the importance of checking in with the people around us. However, for many neurodivergent people, recognising when they are struggling can be difficult, particularly when stress tends to build gradually or when they are used to pushing…
Should I Get a Formal Autism Assessment? Is it worth it?
As awareness and understanding of autism grows, more people are recognising that they may be autistic later in life. Autism can present in many different ways, and autistic people are a diverse group with varied strengths, experiences, identities, and support needs….
Why Do Some Things Feel Hard for Me but Look Easy for Everyone Else? A Neuroaffirming Look at ADHD
Have you ever wondered why certain everyday tasks — like replying to emails, remembering things, sitting still, starting assignments, or staying focused in meetings — seem harder for you than they appear to be for other people? If you have ADHD, this question may feel…
Rumination & the body-brain connection: Why overthinking fuels anxiety
The body-brain connection Our bodies are connected to our brain, and vice versa, through our nervous system. I often explain to clients that ‘where your thoughts go, your body goes along for the ride’. If you are having scary or anxious thoughts, you will start to…
The fight, flight, freeze & fawn response: How the body reacts to anxiety
What is the fight or flight response? The fight-or-flight response is our body’s instinctive response to threats to our safety and risks of danger in our environment. When a threat is identified, the system activates our body to respond in three common ways. Running…
Understanding panic attacks: Causes, symptoms & how to manage them
Do you sometimes feel your heart racing for no clear reason, or find yourself suddenly struggling to breathe, with a tight chest and dizzy head? Do overwhelming waves of fear or dread hit you out of nowhere, leaving you feeling like you might faint, lose control, or…
How ADHD and learning difficulties affect kids and why cognitive assessments help
We don’t believe any child decides they don’t like school for no reason. When children feel proud of doing something well, they usually enjoy school. They feel confident and take part in learning. But, when children avoid school, it helps to explore why. Learning…
Managing anxiety: Practical tips and therapy suggestions that help
Feeling anxious can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Many people struggle with managing anxiety. In fact, understanding it is the first step to feeling better. In this blog, you’ll learn what anxiety is, how it affects you, and how to manage it. We’ll also…
Achieving Work-Life Balance: A Psychologist’s Guide for Australians
In today’s fast-paced world, finding a balance between work and personal life can feel like an uphill battle. It has become especially hard since technology means our work emails and messages are so easily accessible on our phones and devices. Many Australians…
Back-to-School Challenges: How to Support Your Child’s Wellbeing
As the new school year approaches in Melbourne, many students need back-to-school support to help them manage challenges that can impact their mental health and academic performance. Understanding these difficulties and using the right strategies can help make the…