Therapy for Children/Teens
At VZ Psychology & Counselling, we offer evidence-based therapy for children and teens needing support with emotional challenges, behavioural difficulties, or overall mental wellbeing, in a space that feels safe, supportive, and tailored to their unique needs.
Our clinic is located in Casula, Sydney (Between Liverpool and Prestons)
Psychology / Counselling Therapy
Our experienced clinicians provide personalised, therapy that supports each child or teen’s unique needs, challenges and goals.
Assessments for Children/Teens
We provide formal diagnostic testing for children/teens focusing on ADHD, cognitive functioning, and Autism. Assessments are evidence-based and aligned with DSM-5 criteria.
NDIS Participants
We provide therapy for children/teens who are self-managed and plan-managed under the NDIS. We work collaboratively to support each young persons growth and wellbeing
Victim Services and Out of Home Care Clients
We provide trauma-informed counselling for children and teens with out-of-home care experiences and those eligible for support through Victims Services.
PSYCHOLOGY/ COUNSELLING THERAPY
Supporting young people through life’s challenges
with compassionate & evidence-based care.
Our clinicians provide psychological counselling / therapy to treat a wide range of issues in young people including but not limited to:
Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Young people with ADHD may struggle with focus, impulsivity, hyperactivity, or emotional regulation. Our therapy sessions offer a supportive space to build awareness, strengthen skills, and develop strategies that help young people thrive at home, school, and in social settings.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD level 1-3)-Positive Behaviour Support
We support autistic children and teens through neuroaffirming, strength-based approaches. Using Positive Behaviour Support, we work to understand the meaning behind behaviours and promote practical strategies that enhance communication, emotional regulation, and everyday functioning. We see children/Teens diagnosed with Autism level 1, 2 and 3.
Anxiety & Social Anxiety
Anxiety in children and teens can present as worries, avoidance, irritability, or physical symptoms. Social anxiety may cause fear around peer interaction, performance, or speaking up. Therapy offers young people a safe space to explore these feelings, build confidence, and learn coping strategies to manage anxious thoughts and situations.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
Children and teens with ODD may display frequent anger, defiance, or difficulty following rules, often masking deeper emotions. Our therapeutic approach focuses on building emotional regulation, strengthening relationships, and helping families develop consistent, supportive strategies for positive change.
Intellectual Disabilities
We provide therapy tailored to the needs and developmental level of children and teens with intellectual disabilities. Our sessions aim to support emotional expression, social understanding, and everyday coping, while working closely with families and schools to promote inclusion and growth.
School Refusal and Bullying
Struggles with attending school or experiences of bullying can lead to distress, avoidance, and emotional shutdown. We help young people unpack these experiences, build resilience, and develop strategies to manage anxiety, regain confidence, and re-engage with school life.
Trauma, Refugee complex trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Exposure to trauma, whether from a single event, complex circumstances, or displacement, can deeply affect a child’s sense of safety and self. Our trauma-informed therapy provides a nurturing space for healing, helping young people process their experiences and rebuild trust in themselves and the world around them.
Self Harm/Suicidal Ideation
When young people express emotional pain through self-harm or suicidal thoughts, it’s may be a signal of overwhelming distress. Our therapists provide compassionate, non-judgmental support, working to understand the underlying struggles and equip children and teens with safer, more adaptive coping strategies.
Depression/Stress
Low mood, withdrawal, irritability, and lack of motivation can be signs of depression or chronic stress in young people. Through evidence-based approaches, we help young people understand their emotions, reduce feelings of hopelessness, and build skills for emotional wellbeing.
Parent/Young person Attachment and Relationship
Strong, secure relationships with caregivers are foundational to a young person’s development. We support families in strengthening attachment, improving communication, and navigating relational challenges to foster connection and emotional safety.
Chronic Illness/Medical Trauma
Living with a medical condition or undergoing repeated medical procedures may lead to anxiety, trauma responses, or emotional fatigue. Therapy can help children and teens make sense of their experience, express their feelings, and build resilience in managing health challenges.
Identity/self-esteem
Adolescence is a critical time for identity formation and self-worth. We provide a supportive space for young people to explore who they are, embrace their strengths, and navigate the pressures of growing up with confidence and authenticity.
ASSESSMENTS FOR CHILDREN/TEENS
Our clinicians can administer Three types of psychological assessments:
ADHD Assessments
Our psychologists provide comprehensive ADHD assessments using validated tools such as clinical interviews, behaviour checklists, and cognitive testing to understand symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity across home and school settings.
Cognitive Assessments - WISC & WIAT
Cognitive assessments, also known as IQ or psychometric tests, help identify how a child/teen processes information by highlighting their cognitive strengths and areas that may need support. These assessments provide a clearer picture of a of their learning abilities.
Autism Assessments
Our psychologists provide comprehensive autism assessments using evidence-based tools, clinical interviews, behavioural observations, and developmental history to better understand social communication, sensory experiences, and behavioural patterns across settings.
ADHD Assessments
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect attention, impulsivity, and self-regulation in children and teens. It can influence learning, behaviour, relationships, and emotional wellbeing. Early identification through comprehensive assessment allows for tailored support strategies at home, school, and in therapy, helping young people thrive across all areas of life.
Why consider an ADHD assessment for your child/teen?
- Understand the reasons behind challenges with attention, behaviour, emotional regulation, or learning.
- Receive a formal diagnosis that can inform tailored support at home, school, and in therapy.
- Gain clarity around your child’s unique needs and how best to support their development.
- Access appropriate psychological, educational, or medical interventions based on assessment results.
What does the ADHD assessment involve?
- Clinical interview with parents/carers to explore your child’s attention, behaviour, and emotional regulation challenges, as well as their developmental and educational history. If an assessment isn’t recommended at this stage, we’ll offer guidance on alternative supports.
- Comprehensive Evaluation If an ADHD assessment is appropriate, we’ll arrange a detailed evaluation tailored to your child’s age and presentation. This includes clinical interviews, standardised ADHD rating scales (completed by parents and teachers), and questionnaires.
- Observation & Structured Tasks Your child will participate in age-appropriate tasks that assess attention, focus, impulsivity, and self-regulation in a relaxed, supportive environment.
- Comprehensive Report & Recommendations You’ll receive a detailed psychological report outlining the findings, including whether your child meets diagnostic criteria for ADHD. The report also includes practical, evidence-based recommendations to support your child at home, at school, and in therapy ensuring a clear path forward.
Begin the Assessment Process…
Booking a psychological assessment is the first step toward gaining clarity, insight, and tailored support. Our team will guide you through the process, from your initial enquiry to receiving your results and recommendations.
Cognitive Assessments - WISC & WIAT
Cognitive assessments help us understand how your child thinks, learns, and processes information. The results provide valuable insight into your child’s cognitive strengths and areas of difficulty, helping guide educational planning, learning support, and therapeutic interventions.
Why consider a cognitive assessment for your child/teen?
- Gain a clearer understanding of how your child learns, processes information, and solves problems.
- Identify cognitive strengths and areas that may need support, such as memory, reasoning, or attention.
- Assist in the diagnosis of intellectual or neurodevelopmental conditions.
- Inform Individual Learning Plans (ILPs), classroom strategies, and school-based supports.
- Receive practical recommendations in everyday life.
What does a cognitive assessment involve?
- A clinical interview with parents/carer to understand your child’s learning needs, developmental history, and any current concerns. If an assessment isn’t recommended at this stage, we’ll explain why and guide you toward appropriate next steps giving you the choice to proceed or not.
- Comprehensive evaluation If a cognitive assessment is appropriate, we’ll arrange a thorough evaluation tailored to your child’s age and developmental stage. This includes standardised testing, clinical interviews, and questionnaires to gain an understanding of your child’s cognitive profile.
- Observation & structured tasks Your child will be guided through a range of engaging tasks designed to assess areas such as memory, attention, reasoning, processing speed, and problem-solving.
- Comprehensive report & recommendations You’ll receive a detailed psychological report outlining your child’s cognitive strengths and areas of difficulty. The report includes clear recommendations to support learning, school engagement, and emotional development.
Begin the Assessment Process…
Booking a psychological assessment is the first step toward gaining clarity, insight, and tailored support. Our team will guide you through the process, from your initial enquiry to receiving your results and recommendations.
Autism Assessments
At VZ Psychology & Counselling, we provide comprehensive, neuroaffirming Autism assessments for children/teens that explore their unique strengths, challenges, communication style, and support needs. Our holistic approach focuses on understanding the whole child, not just meeting diagnostic criteria.
Why consider a Autsim assessment for your child/teen?
An autism assessment can provide clear answers, reduce uncertainty, and guide the right supports for your child or teen. It offers a deeper understanding of how your child communicates, processes sensory information, regulates emotions, learns, and experiences the world, while also recognising their individual strengths.
An assessment may be helpful if you notice ongoing differences in your childs:
- Social communication, interaction, or connection with others
- Sensory processing
- Need for routine, predictability, or distress with change
- Focused, repetitive, or highly intense interests
- Emotional regulation, behaviour, or challenges at school or home
Early understanding helps ensure the right support is put in place at the right time.
What does a Autism assessment involve?
The assessment includes a comprehensive developmental history and parent interview, structured questionnaires completed across home and school settings, and evidence-based tools some of which can include MIGDAS-2 or ADOS where appropriate. We explore key areas including social communication, sensory processing, emotional regulation, behaviour, cognitive and learning abilities, and screen for co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and learning differences.
Your child’s assessment journey is carefully guided and typically includes an initial consultation, tailored assessment sessions, school observation where appropriate, a feedback session to discuss outcomes, and a detailed written report with clear, practical recommendations and ongoing support.
Begin the Assessment Process…
Booking a psychological assessment is the first step toward gaining clarity, insight, and tailored support. Our team will guide you through the process, from your initial enquiry to receiving your results and recommendations.