Therapy
Therapy for children and teenagers
Therapy at Changing Minds is practical, evidence-based and built around your child. We help children and teens with anxiety, big emotions, behaviour, trauma, school refusal and social difficulties, using evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and motivational interviewing. We take an integrated approach, drawing on what best suits your child's age, stage and needs rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all method. Much of our work happens through play and doing, not just talking, so children stay engaged and learn skills that stick.
What we help with
- Anxiety and worry
- Emotional regulation
- Anger and behaviour
- Low mood
- Trauma
- School refusal and avoidance
- Friendship and social skills
- Adjustment to a new diagnosis
Our approach
Warm, collaborative and paced for your child. We work closely with parents, because change happens between sessions too, and we keep strategies practical so they fit real family life. Our resident dogs, Gracey and Oscar, are a calm, friendly presence in our space who help children feel settled, safe and at ease when they visit.
What makes our therapy different
Practical, hands-on, and built around your child
Parents are part of every session
Therapy here is something we do together with you, not just with your child. You are involved at the start and end of every session and leave with practical parenting strategies to use at home. Parent involvement is one of the strongest factors in how well therapy works for a child, so being actively part of the process is central to how we work here.
Your child leaves with real tools
We often build your child's resources during the session, visual charts, calming strategies and reminders, laminated and ready to use at home and at school. Many families don't have the time or the know-how to make these, so we create them with your child, tailored to them.
Virtual reality, where it helps
We also have virtual reality available and bring it into sessions where it helps a child engage and get the most from therapy.
Getting started
We are currently welcoming new therapy clients, with first appointments usually available within a few weeks, and sooner if you are able to take a cancellation time. A GP referral is not required to see us, though a Mental Health Treatment Plan lets you claim a Medicare rebate.
Fees
Sessions are $300. A Medicare rebate is available with a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP. See our Fees page for detail.
In a crisis
If your child is in immediate danger, call 000. For urgent support, contact Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14. Changing Minds provides ongoing therapeutic support and is not a crisis service.
Waiting for your child's assessment, or just not sure where to start? Download our free parent guide, written by a clinical psychologist, with practical steps you can use straight away.