At Growing Early Minds our psychologists can teach children how to identify, process and deal with their thoughts and emotions in a conscientious and productive way.
Struggling with social, emotional, mental health or behaviours of concern?
Pinpoint specific issues, understand what your child is experiencing and learn practical strategies.
Experience with complex needs, developmental delay or disability.
Start your journey by completing our referral form today!
What is psychology?
Psychology is understanding how and why people think, feel, behave and react the way they do. Psychology for children can help with social, emotional, mental health or behavioural difficulties, which can impact their learning, relationships and emotional well-being at home and at school.
Being a parent is the most important job in the world. We want to be there to support and nurture our children, especially when they’re experiencing challenges. For those times when it gets overwhelming and your usual strategies don’t work, our psychologists can help you and your child with support and practical strategies.
Our psychologists are experienced in working with children who have experienced trauma, complex needs, developmental delay or disability, including Autism.
Australia Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) supports 15 National Boards and is responsible for regulating health professions. The primary role is to protect the public and set standards and policies that all registered health practitioners must meet. All our Growing Early Minds psychologists are registered AHPRA practitioners.
How a psychologist can help
Families and children come to psychological therapy for different reasons and symptoms. Therapy, particularly in the early years of a child’s life, can address concerns when the brain is developing rapidly and is most open to change, which can have a lasting positive impact into their future.
- Developmental disabilities, such as intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and difficulties related to Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Difficulties with emotional regulation and maladaptive behaviour
- Trauma, stressful events and adjustment issues
- Concentration and learning difficulties
- Assessing current difficulties
- Anxiety related disorders
- Mood disorders
Signs my child may benefit
There are a number of signs which could indicate your child may benefit from psychology. These may include:
- Presenting with behaviour that is disruptive, concerning or challenging
- Difficulty coping with big changes or transitions in life
- Experienced trauma is struggling or unable to cope
- Extreme emotional reactions, aggression or anger
- Difficulty with relationships e.g. family, siblings, friendship
- Poor concentration, communication and social skills
- Low moods, withdrawal and anxiety
- Challenges with self-esteem
- Avoidance of situations
Psychology for children covers a wide range of areas. To hear from our experts and get some more detailed information, read How Psychology Can Help.
What happens during a session
Our sessions range from 30, 45 or 60 minute time blocks and will be with one of our experienced psychologists. During our initial consultation, we will gather information such as lifestyle, family history, medical conditions, communication needs and the behaviours of concern.
Our qualified psychologists will conduct an assessment to pinpoint specific issues, their effects and what is causing them. Based on the assessment and goals, we will then develop a treatment plan and implement evidence-based strategies to help overcome the presenting issues. We take a collaborative and capacity building approach engaging and working with the family, educators and other health professionals to ensure everyone has the right tools to respond appropriately.
Locations – clinic, mobile and telehealth
Families have the option to visit our clinic in Blacktown (Western Sydney, NSW) or we can see children in their natural everyday environments such as at home, at their child care centre, school or playgroup. Our clinics are also designed to provide telehealth services to families that reside in remote, regional or interstate locations.
Whole school programs are also available. Speak to us to find out how we can work together.
Getting started and next steps
Making an appointment
If you feel therapy might be beneficial contact us today. You don’t need a referral from a GP or paediatrician, although this may help offset the cost of therapy. We will discuss with you the best pathway, fees and provide you with our referral form, along with any other important information we’ve discussed. Alternatively, you can download our referral form directly from our website here. After you complete and submit your referral form we will finalise a service agreement and contact you to discuss the signing and booking of your first consultation.
Fees and funding options
Costs can vary and depends on a number of factors including the time needed per session, the depth of an assessment, location and travel requirements. We’re registered NDIS and Medicare provider and some families may be eligible for financial support or funding packages to help offset the cost of therapy. Learn more about the different funding packages