Our clinic offers comprehensive assessments for ADHD, autism, intellectual disability, and learning difficulties for all age groups (children, adolescents and adults). Additionally, we provide counselling services and parent support.

Anyone who feels that an individual may benefit from our services can make a referral. This includes, but is not limited to:

• General Practitioners (GPs)

• Paediatricians

• Psychiatrists

• Teachers/schools

• Support Workers

• Speech Pathologists

• Occupational Therapists

• Other Psychologists

Additionally, individuals and their family members or carers can also contact us directly if they feel our services could be beneficial. We welcome and encourage referrals from a diverse range of professionals to ensure that individuals receive comprehensive care and support.

All assessments are conducted by our psychologist, Dr. Sharon Mittiga, who has significant experience in both pediatric and adult evaluations. Dr. Mittiga is a Monash University alumni, where she completed a Master of Educational and Developmental Psychology and Doctor of Philosophy.

Professionals trained in educational and developmental psychology are equipped with knowledge and skills to assess learning needs, design interventions to address developmental and learning challenges, and support individuals' emotional and social development. They can work with individuals with learning difficulties, behavioral problems, developmental disorders, and those experiencing developmental transitions. They are often involved in conducting assessments, designing and implementing intervention programs, and offering counseling and support services.

This training enables psychologists to effectively support individuals in overcoming developmental and learning challenges and optimising their developmental trajectories, learning experiences, and overall well-being.

The duration of the assessment can vary based on the individual and the specific condition being assessed. However, it is generally recommended to allocate a few hours/days for a thorough evaluation.

When you call our clinic, you can expect a friendly and confidential conversation with Dr. Mittiga. She will listen attentively to understand your concerns and needs. She may ask a few questions to get a clearer picture of how she can best assist you, such as the type of service you are seeking, any specific issues you (or your child) are (is) facing, and your availability for appointments. You’ll receive information about our services, the assessment or counselling process, available appointment slots (or intake/consent forms), and fee structure.

Dr. Mittiga can also answer any questions you might have about her experience, and her approach to therapy or assessment. If you’re comfortable proceeding, we can also schedule your initial appointment during this call.

Remember, this call is a chance for you to gather information and feel out if our clinic is the right fit for your needs, with no obligation to book an appointment. Our goal is to make you feel heard, understood, and supported from the very first interaction.

When you first reach out to us via email or phone call, you will have a 10 - 15 mins phone call with Sharon.

After that phone conversation, if you are happy to proceed with our service(s), you will get an onboarding (welcome) email from us with a quote for service(s) requested.

We'll also send you a link, via Halaxy, to fill out more info (intake form). Halaxy will send you a second email with a special code for you to access the link. The email from Halaxy will also include our Services Agreement, Privacy Policy and Schedule of Fees.

Once you fill that out, we will be automatically notified. Sharon will then contact you to pick a date for your first appointment.

If you're booking for a child, the first appointment (intake/developmental history) will just be for the parents.

For your convenience, this first appointment can be in-clinic or via telehealth.

You can book more appointment times as is needed for your assessment now or later.

Once an appointment is scheduled, you will receive a confirmation with details on how to prepare, any documents to bring, and what to expect during the assessment.

As a parent, you may wonder how to explain the neurodevelopmental assessment process to your child in a way that feels positive, reassuring, and easy for them to understand. It’s important to use child-friendly language that focuses on their strengths and helps them feel confident about the process. Below, I’ve provided guidance on how to talk to your child about the assessment, tailored for different age groups, along with example explanations to help them feel comfortable and supported. These suggestions are designed to be strength-based, focusing on what your child is good at and how the assessment can help them shine even more.

General Tips for All Ages

• Keep it positive: Frame the assessment as a way to learn more about what your child is great at and how they can get the right support to do their best.

• Be honest but simple: Use clear, age-appropriate language to explain the process without overwhelming them with details.

• Focus on strengths: Highlight that the assessment will help identify their unique abilities and find ways to make things like school or daily tasks easier.

• Reassure them: Let your child know that the assessment involves fun activities, not a test they can pass or fail, and that you’ll be with them every step of the way.

• Encourage questions: Invite your child to ask questions and share how they feel about coming to the assessment.

For Primary School-Aged Children (Under 12)

Young children benefit from simple, concrete explanations that feel like an adventure or a special activity. Avoid using complex terms like “assessment” or “diagnosis,” and focus on making the process sound fun and supportive.

Example explanation:“We’re going to visit a friendly person called a psychologist who helps kids like you show what they’re really good at! They might ask you to play some games, solve puzzles, or talk about things you enjoy. It’s all about finding out what makes you special and how we can help you with things like school or making friends. It’s not a test, and there’s no right or wrong answers—just a chance to have fun and learn more about you!”

Why this works:

• It frames the assessment as a positive, fun experience with “games” and “puzzles.”

• It emphasizes your child’s strengths (“what makes you special”) and reassures them there’s no pressure to perform.

• It connects the process to relatable goals, like doing well at school or making friends.

Additional tips for younger children:

• Use playful language, like “a special adventure to learn about you.”

• Reassure them that you’ll be there (even if you’re not in the room for the assessment itself) and that the psychologist is kind and friendly.

• If your child is nervous, you could say, “Lots of kids visit the psychologist, and they have a great time doing the activities!”

For Older Teenagers (13–17 Years)

Older teenagers can handle more detailed explanations and may want to understand how the assessment relates to their life, such as school, hobbies, or challenges they’re facing. Be honest about the purpose while keeping the focus on their strengths and how the assessment can support their goals.

Example explanation:“We’ve arranged for you to meet with a psychologist who helps teenagers figure out what they’re really good at and how they learn best. They’ll do some activities with you, like answering questions or solving problems, to understand your strengths and find ways to make things like school, studying, or daily life easier for you. It’s not a test you can pass or fail—it’s just a way to learn more about what makes you unique and how we can support you to achieve your goals. You can ask any questions you have, and we’ll work together to make sure you feel good about it.”

Why this works:

• It respects their maturity by explaining the purpose in a straightforward way.

• It highlights their strengths and connects the assessment to practical outcomes, like doing better at school or reaching personal goals.

• It encourages their involvement by inviting questions and emphasizing collaboration.

Additional tips for teenagers:

• Acknowledge their feelings: “If you’re feeling unsure about this, that’s okay—let’s talk about it.”

• Highlight their role: “You’ll get to share what you think and what you’d like help with.”

• If relevant, connect the assessment to their specific concerns, like “This can help us figure out why some subjects feel tricky and how to make them easier.”

Common Questions Your Child Might Ask

• “Why do I need to go?” You could say, “This is a chance to learn more about what you’re amazing at and how we can make things like school or other activities even better for you.”

• “Is something wrong with me?” Reassure them: “There’s nothing wrong with you! Everyone has things they’re great at and things they find tricky. This is about finding ways to help you shine.”

• “Will it be hard?” Say, “It’s not hard at all—it’s like playing games or chatting about what you like. The psychologist is really kind and wants to help you.”

Final Thoughts

Talking to your child about the assessment in a positive, strength-based way can help them feel excited or at least comfortable with the process. By focusing on their unique abilities and framing the assessment as a supportive step, you can reduce any worries they might have. If you’re unsure about how to explain it to your child or want help tailoring the conversation to their needs, please feel free to contact me. I’m happy to work with you to make sure your child feels confident and supported before their visit.

The initial intake session is designed to gather detailed information about your child’s history, behaviour, and any concerns you may have. This session is typically for parents or guardians only, as it allows us to discuss sensitive topics openly. However, we understand that every family is different, and you may wonder whether your child should attend. Below, we’ve outlined the pros and cons of having your child present at the initial session, with specific considerations for primary school-aged children and older teenagers, to help you make an informed decision.

For Primary School-Aged Children (Under 12)

Pros of bringing your child:

• Early involvement: Including your child from the start can help them feel part of the process and understand that the assessment is about supporting them.

• Meet and greet: It can be a chance for your child to meet the psychologist in a relaxed setting, which may help them feel more comfortable during later assessment sessions.

• Observing behaviour: Having your child present might allow the psychologist to observe their behaviour or interactions, which could provide some initial insights.

Cons of bringing your child:

• Sensitive information: The intake session often involves discussing detailed and potentially sensitive information about your child’s development, behaviour, or family circumstances. Parents may feel less comfortable sharing this openly with their child present, especially if the topics could be upsetting or confusing for a young child.

• Child’s understanding: Young children may not fully understand the purpose of the session and could find the discussion overwhelming or boring, which might lead to distraction or discomfort.

• Parental focus: The session is designed to focus on gathering information from you, the parent. Having a young child present might make it harder to have an in-depth conversation, as you may need to attend to your child’s needs during the session.

Recommendation for primary school-aged children:As the assessing psychologist, I generally recommend that primary school-aged children do not attend the initial intake session. This allows us to have an open and focused discussion about your concerns without worrying about how the conversation might affect your child. However, the final decision is yours, and I’m happy to discuss what feels right for your family.

For Older Teenagers (13–17 Years)

Pros of bringing your teenager:

• Their perspective: Older teenagers may have valuable insights into their own experiences, challenges, or goals, which can be helpful to share during the intake session.

• Building trust: Attending the session can help your teenager feel involved in the process and build trust with the psychologist from the outset.

• Empowering choice: Allowing your teenager to attend respects their growing independence and can help them feel more in control of the assessment process.

Cons of bringing your teenager:

• Sensitive topics: Similar to younger children, the intake session may cover sensitive family or personal history that you or your teenager might find difficult to discuss openly together.

• Comfort levels: Some teenagers may feel self-conscious or reluctant to share in front of their parents, or parents may feel hesitant to discuss certain concerns with their teenager present.

• Focus of the session: The initial session is primarily for parents to share background information. Your teenager will have plenty of opportunities to share their thoughts during later assessment sessions designed specifically for them.

Recommendation for older teenagers:For older teenagers, it may be appropriate for them to attend the initial session, depending on their maturity, interest in the process, and your family’s preferences. If your teenager is keen to be involved and you’re comfortable discussing relevant information with them present, their attendance can be beneficial. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to have a private discussion first, we can arrange for your teenager to meet me during a later session. I encourage you to talk with your teenager about what they’re comfortable with and to let me know what you decide.

Final Thoughts

Every family is unique, and the decision about whether your child or teenager should attend the initial intake session is entirely yours. My goal is to ensure you feel confident and informed in making the choice that’s right for your family. If you’re unsure, please feel free to contact me to discuss your specific situation, and we can work together to plan the best approach for your child’s assessment.

The feedback session, held 2–3 weeks after the final assessment appointment, is where I share the results of your child’s neurodevelopmental assessment with you, provide an electronic copy of the report, and discuss next steps. This session is designed specifically for parents or guardians to ensure a focused and open conversation about the findings. I strongly recommend that primary school-aged children do not attend this session, as the content is tailored for adults and may not be suitable for young children. For older teenagers, attendance may be considered based on their maturity and your preferences. Below, I’ve outlined the pros and cons for different age groups, along with information about a separate child-friendly feedback session for younger children, to help you make an informed decision.

For Primary School-Aged Children (Under 12)

Pros of bringing your child:

• None. Due to the nature of the feedback session, which involves detailed and potentially sensitive discussions, I do not recommend bringing primary school-aged children.

Cons of bringing your child:

• Complex information: The feedback session includes technical details about the assessment results, which are likely to be confusing or overwhelming for a young child.

• Sensitive topics: We may discuss challenges, diagnoses, or recommendations that could be upsetting or difficult for a young child to process if not explained in a child-friendly way.

• Parental focus: The session is designed for parents to ask questions and discuss next steps. A young child’s presence might make it harder to have an open conversation, as you may need to manage their reactions or distractions.

• Potential discomfort: Young children may find the session boring or unsettling, as it’s not designed to engage them or address their needs directly.

Recommendation for primary school-aged children:I strongly advise that primary school-aged children do not attend the feedback session, as the content is not suitable for their age group and is tailored specifically for parents. Instead, I offer a separate child-friendly feedback session (60 minutes, charged at the standard hourly rate), where I can explain the results to your child in an age-appropriate, supportive way. See below for more details on this option.

For Older Teenagers (13–17 Years)

Pros of bringing your teenager:

• Their perspective: Older teenagers may want to understand the assessment results and contribute to discussions about next steps, especially if the outcomes affect their school or daily life.

• Empowering involvement: Including your teenager respects their growing independence and can help them feel more in control of their support plan.

• Building trust: Being part of the conversation can strengthen their trust in the process and help them feel heard.

Cons of bringing your teenager:

• Sensitive or complex information: The feedback session may cover diagnoses, challenges, or recommendations that could be difficult for a teenager to hear, especially if they’re not prepared or if the discussion feels overwhelming.

• Parental focus: The session is designed for parents to receive and process the results, ask questions, and plan next steps. Your teenager’s presence might limit how openly you feel able to discuss certain topics or concerns.

• Emotional impact: Some teenagers may find it challenging to hear about their difficulties in a formal setting, which could affect their confidence or emotional wellbeing.

Recommendation for older teenagers:The feedback session is primarily tailored for parents, but older teenagers may attend if you and they feel it’s appropriate, depending on their maturity and comfort level. If your teenager is keen to be involved, it can be helpful for them to hear the results directly and contribute to the conversation. However, if you prefer a private discussion or think the information might be overwhelming for them, I recommend they do not attend. Instead, I can arrange a separate session to discuss the results with your teenager in a way that suits their needs. Please talk with your teenager and let me know what you decide.

Child-Friendly Feedback Session for Younger Children

For primary school-aged children, I offer a separate child-friendly feedback session (60 minutes, charged at the standard hourly rate). This session is designed specifically for your child, using age-appropriate language to explain the assessment results in a positive and supportive way.

Pros of a separate child-friendly feedback session:

• Age-appropriate communication: I tailor the discussion to your child’s understanding, focusing on their strengths and explaining any challenges in a way that feels supportive and encouraging.

• Safe space: A separate session allows your child to ask questions or share feelings without the pressure of a parent-focused discussion.

• Building confidence: By framing the results positively, the session can help your child feel empowered and understood, setting a positive tone for any next steps.

• Flexibility for parents: You can have an open and detailed discussion in the parent feedback session, knowing your child will receive their own tailored explanation later.

How it works:The child-friendly feedback session is scheduled separately, typically after the parent feedback session. I’ll work with you to ensure the session suits your child’s needs and addresses any specific questions or concerns they might have. Please let me know if you’d like to arrange this additional session.

Final Thoughts

The feedback session is designed to help parents understand the assessment results and plan next steps, so I strongly recommend that only parents attend, particularly for primary school-aged children. A separate child-friendly feedback session is the best way to involve younger children in an age-appropriate manner. For older teenagers, the decision depends on their maturity and your family’s preferences. I’m here to support you in making the choice that feels right for your family. If you’re unsure, please contact me to discuss your situation, and we can plan the best approach together.

After the assessment, Dr. Sharon Mittiga will provide a detailed report outlining the findings, recommendations, and next steps. If needed, counselling and support options will also be discussed.

Yes, there are distinctions between self-managed and plan-managed NDIS clients. Self-managed clients will be provided an invoice once payment is received so they are able to make a claim. Plan-managed clients do not pay for sessions on the day as the invoice is sent to their plan manager. We currently cater to both self-managed and plan-managed clients. However, we do not cater to NDIS managed and or NDIA clients as we are NOT a registered provider.

No, counselling sessions are available for anyone in need, regardless of whether they have had an assessment with us.

To be eligible for Medicare rebates for online or face-to-face counselling, ensure the following: secure a GP referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan before your first session; medicare won't rebate for plans dated post-appointment; Referrals can come from your GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician; eligible clients receive 10 sessions annually. After 6 sessions, a progress assessment by the referring doctor is needed to access the remaining 4.

Current rebate for MHTP is $98.95 (from 1 July 2025).

No, we don’t bulk bill because we are a private practice. But with a valid referral from a GP called a mental health care plan, you can claim a Medicare rebate of $98.95 for up to 10 sessions per calendar year.

Parents or guardians can reach out to us directly to discuss their concerns and needs. We offer tailored support and guidance for parents, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to best support their child.

Yes, we do have a cancellation policy.

Same day cancellation notice: 100% of fee

24 hours cancellation notice: 50% of fee

48 hours cancellation notice: 25% of fee

You may cancel by emailing us at admin@brainhelperspsychology.com.au or call/leave a voicemail on 0435 100 605

Your health and well-being are our top priorities. If you or your child is unwell, we kindly ask that you reschedule your appointment to a later date. This policy ensures the safety and health of all our clients and staff. Please contact us at your earliest convenience to arrange a new appointment time. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us maintain a healthy clinic environment.

Absolutely! We understand the challenges of distance, so we've made our intake and feedback sessions available online for your convenience. However, please note that the actual assessment sessions must be conducted face-to-face to ensure accuracy and comply with professional standards. We strive to make these sessions as flexible and accommodating as possible, and our team can assist in coordinating appointments to fit your travel arrangements. For further assistance or to discuss how we can best serve your needs, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

Absolutely! At Brain Helpers Psychology, we are dedicated to making our services available to clients across Australia through telehealth. We offer remote counselling sessions and a range of assessments to individuals residing interstate.

For adults seeking an evaluation for ASD or ADHD, most assessments can be conducted remotely. However, cognitive assessments, which are sometimes required as part of the evaluation package, must be done in person. This requirement is particularly relevant for children or adolescents, such as those needing cognitive assessments for school-related purposes.

In the case of counselling, our ability to provide the highest level of care can be impacted when supporting interstate clients, especially when managing safety concerns that require urgent or in-person interventions. For this reason, we recommend that clients seeking counselling engage with a psychologist based in their own state to ensure they receive appropriate support when needed.

For more information or to discuss your specific circumstances, please reach out to us at admin@brainhelperspsychology.com.au or use our contact form. We’re here to help find the best approach for your needs, wherever you are.

Yes, under certain circumstances, we can conduct ADHD assessments for individuals aged 18 and over entirely via telehealth. This option is particularly useful for clients who are interstate or unable to visit our clinic in person. If you're considering this option, please contact us to discuss how we can tailor the assessment to meet your needs.

It's important to note that while a telehealth assessment can provide comprehensive insights and a formal diagnosis, individuals seeking medical treatment for ADHD, such as medication, will still need a referral to a psychiatrist. This is necessary to ensure that all aspects of treatment, particularly those involving prescription medication, are handled safely and in accordance with medical guidelines.

If you're interested in exploring this option or need more information, don't hesitate to get in touch. Let's chat about how we can assist you.

The prices listed on our services page are for convenience. Actual costs may vary depending on the specific needs and circumstances of each client. Additional services or specialised assessments may incur further charges. We encourage you to contact us directly for a more personalised quote that reflects your specific requirements.

Please note that the AAPi recommend a rate of $315 for 40-60 mins session.

Yes. From 1st July 2025, there will be a gap fee for all sessions. The gap fee for the initial consultation (first session conducted during standard business hours) will be $46.09, and for all ongoing sessions (during standard business hours), it will be $16.09. However, TAC clients receive a slightly higher rebate from their insurer, so their gap fee will be slightly less than that of WorkSafe clients. This fee will need to be paid at the time of your session via EFTPOS or another agreed method. If you have any concerns about this change, please let us know.

1. What is a cognitive assessment?
A cognitive assessment is a process that explores how someone thinks, learns, and processes information. It’s not just about intelligence—it maps out strengths and challenges. Read more in our blog post.

2. Why has my child been referred for one?
Referrals from paediatricians, speech pathologists, occupational therapist, or schools often mean they’ve noticed something—like learning struggles or uneven skills—that could benefit from deeper understanding. Find out why it matters here.

3. What age is it for?
There are versions for all ages: young kids (e.g., preschool), school-aged children, and adults. It’s never too late! Learn how it helps different ages.

4. Will it label my child?
No, it’s not about labelling—it’s about understanding their unique mind to support them better. Discover what it really reveals.

5. How can it help at school?
It can guide teachers with tailored strategies, like extra time or visual aids, to boost learning. See how it transforms education.

6. Can adults benefit too?
Absolutely! It can explain lifelong quirks, improve work life, or support personal growth. Explore adult benefits.

7. What happens after the assessment?
You’ll get a report with insights and practical recommendations—like classroom tweaks or home activities. Dive into next steps.

8. How do I know if it’s right for us?
If your child struggles, excels unevenly, or you’re curious about your own mind, it’s worth considering. Check who it’s for.

9. How long does a cognitive assessment take?
It usually takes 60 to 90 minutes (except full educational assessments take longer), spread over one session, depending on age and needs. It’s relaxed and engaging! Get the full scoop in our blog.

Sharon takes an eclectic approach, tailoring interventions to each client’s needs. Her draws on:

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

• Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

• Pain Management strategies

• Psychodynamic perspectives

• Attachment Theory

• Behavioural approaches

• Trauma-informed care

• Mindfulness and nervous system regulation

• Gottman Method for couples therapy

This flexibility allows Sharon to integrate strategies that best support your goals and circumstances.

Yes. Sharon provides support for older adults and their families, including adjustment to aging, grief and loss, cognitive changes, and emotional wellbeing. Sharon’s approach in geriatric psychology is compassionate, practical, and evidence-based.

Yes. In line with the Psychology Board of Australia’s Code of Conduct, Sharon collaborates with other professionals when needed—whether working with minors or adult clients. This may include liaising with:

• Schools

• GPs

• Psychiatrists

• Allied health professionals

• Case workers

• Support workers

• Social workers

Sharon also participates in case conferences or team care meetings when appropriate. Please note that these services are billed at $250 per hour. Off-site meetings incur travel cost.

Yes. Sharon has experience supporting neurodiverse individuals of all ages, as well as clients with complex trauma histories. Sharon’s focus is on creating a safe, structured environment that fosters trust and engagement while using evidence-based strategies tailored to each person’s needs.