West Leederville - Early Start Australia

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Psychology services to help you thrive

Early Start Australia West Leederville provides psychological assessments and counselling for children, adolescents, parents, carers and families.

Our psychology services provide support for learning and development, managing behaviours, emotions and thoughts and maintaining and improving mental health.

We tailor our approach to your needs and support you and your family at every stage.

View our services

Located in a privately fronted heritage building, our clinic provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for families seeking assistance.

Our dedicated rooms cater to various needs, with bright and engaging spaces for child psychometric assessments and calm, private rooms for individual, family or group counselling sessions.

Now part of Early Start Australia we were formerly known as Brainbox Clinic founded by Karen King.

Please note we do not provide crisis services, if you or your family members require immediate assistance click here.

Clinic contact details

40 Kimberley Street
West Leederville WA 6007

Call

1300 372 439

Fax

08 6559 7016

Email

[email protected]

Make an enquiry Get directions

Tailored psychological support for children, young adults and families

Our team of highly qualified Psychologists at Early Start Australia West Leederville are experienced in providing support through a range of challenges at different stages of life including:

Children: Worries, fears and sadness, challenging behaviour, school struggles, social relationships

Adolescents: Self-esteem concerns, anxious thoughts or depressed mood, peer relationship difficulties, self-harm behaviours

Parents: Post-natal depression and anxiety, parent-child relationship difficulties, parenting with consistency

Families: Family relationship difficulties, conflict between couples.

Meet the team

As advocates for family therapy, we involve all relevant family members in the therapeutic process. Our psychologists employ evidence-based therapies, including cognitive behaviour therapy, to explore connections between thoughts and feelings, fostering behaviour changes.

Enquire Now Call 08 9388 9960

Comprehensive assessment services

Early Start Australia West Leederville offers detailed assessments for children and adolescents, exploring learning, behaviour, and development. Assessments assist in exploring the presence of a diagnosis and determining underlying reasons for concerns.

We can screen for:

Specific Learning Disorders (SLDs) such as dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Giftedness/IQ

Assessments explore and identify your child’s strengths and challenges and assist in understanding how they learn best. This helps guide support and recommendations specific to your child to assist them to thrive their home, school, social and other environments.

Through early identification of individual strengths and challenges, we empower parents with the tools to support their child’s growth and reach their full potential.

Enquire Now Call 08 9388 9960

What you can expect at Early Start Australia West Leederville

Early intervention: We focus on early identification and support for individual strengths and difficulties in children and young people.
Dedicated team approach: All our psychologists are permanent employees to ensure consistency and continuity of care.
Expertise: Our team are all highly qualified psychologists with diverse career experiences. The modalities they adopt are trauma-informed and all therapists are highly experienced in working with neurodiversity such as ADHD and Autism.

Assessment & diagnostic services: We deliver comprehensive assessments to guide personalised therapy plans, school funding, and support a diagnosis.
Evidence-based care: Our psychologists receive ongoing training in various evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Therapies (MBT), and Interpersonal Counselling.
In-clinic therapy and telehealth: We offer therapy in the clinic and via telehealth when suitable. Assessment services are available exclusively in the clinic.

Enquire Now Call 08 9388 9960

How we can help you

At Early Start Australia West Leederville we offer psychological assessments and counselling to help you thrive.

Psychology services

We assist with learning, behaviour management, emotional well-being, and mental health for all ages.

Learn more

Learning assessments

We deliver learning assessments to address academic performance issues, identify learning disorders such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia as well as evaluation of intellectual ability for inclusion in gifted programs.

Behaviour assessments

We deliver behaviour assessments to examine challenging behaviours including attention problems, hyperactivity, and executive functioning difficulties as well as identifying specific disorders such as ADHD.

Development assessments

We deliver development assessments to investigate delays in reaching milestones, identifying intellectual disabilities and analysing cognitive and social-emotional skills related to school readiness.

ADHD intervention program

Neuro-affirming practical skills-based sessions for children exhibiting ADHD symptoms providing practical advice during or following a diagnosis and strategies to address common behaviour issues.

Let’s get started on your therapy journey

Starting therapy can often be a confusing and challenging time. If you are not sure where to start, that’s ok. We’ll be here to guide you when you’re ready.

Call us on 07 5302 6878 or complete the enquiry form. We’ll contact you to discuss your needs and goals and discuss how we can best support you.

Enquire Now Call 08 9388 9960

Frequently Asked Questions

You don’t need a general practitioner referral to see a psychologist in West Leederville.

Contact us today to discuss your needs and request an appointment.

Our clinic serves West Leederville and its neighbouring suburbs, including Leederville, Subiaco, Shenton Park, Daglish, Dalkeith, Floreat, Nedlands, Claremont, Mount Lawley, Inglewood.

While these are our immediate areas, we extend our psychological services to clients across the greater Perth area, from Mandurah in the South to the Northern suburbs.

Typically, there are no rebates available through Medicare for psychometric assessments at ESA West Leederville.

If you have private health insurance and assessments are completed by an Early Start Australia Psychologist with full registration, you may be eligible for some rebates through your private health insurance company at their discretion and depending on the level of cover held.

It is recommended you discuss this with your private health insurance company.

To reduce any potential anxiety around testing, it’s recommended that you avoid using words like ‘testing’, ‘assessment’ or ‘games’.

Instead, it’s recommended that you explain to your child that they will be meeting with someone to complete some activities.

You may wish to tell them the name of the health professional.

Letting them know what to expect can be helpful to reduce anxiety and set expectations.

Setting the scene for your child can help reduce anxiety around attending.

For example, informing your child that they will be completing some activities and that you will be just outside the room.

It can also be a good idea to bring an object of their choice to help to increase their sense of safety and security.

Results from the assessment at ESA West Leederville may or may not indicate the presence of a diagnosis.

If the results indicate the presence of a diagnosis, recommendations will be made to meet with your paediatrician to formalise or verify the diagnosis (for ADHD specifically – this is not a requirement for SLDs diagnoses and our assessment is sufficient to formalise the diagnoses).

Depending on the results from the assessment, your child may be eligible for government funding for therapy and support.

All of this is discussed at your feedback appointment.

During your initial appointment (either in person or via telehealth) you will have the opportunity to meet with a therapist to discuss your goals and reasons for seeking therapy services.

Depending on your situation, this appointment may also involve an assessment.

It’s beneficial to bring along any relevant documents such as doctor’s referrals, funding letters, custody/parenting orders or reports that may be helpful for us to see.

If you or your child has a NDIS plan, please bring this with you as well.

Additionally, you will receive an email containing consent forms and important documents to read and sign.

At ESA West Leederville our books are always open, with limited wait time on assessments, therapy, and parent consultations.

Please feel free to get in contact with our clinic for more information and availability.

If you are unable to attend a session, we require notification at least 2 business days before the appointment during February – November; or 7 days before the appointment during December and January.

Early intervention has been proven to lead to better outcomes.

You should consider seeing a psychologist in West Leederville as soon as you have concerns about your or your family members mental health including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, self-harm, ADHD or stress.

Or, if your child’s behaviour or emotional state has been noted by a GP, teacher or caregiver.

Contact us today to discuss your needs and request an appointment.

A psychological assessment at ESA West Leederville uncovers strengths and struggles in a child’s intellectual profile, learning performance, behaviour, and social-emotional functioning.

Our assessment process is tailored towards the individual needs of each unique child we meet by including the following steps:

Parent initial consultation – We like to gain insight from both parents into the factors impacting a child’s development.
Cognitive (IQ) assessment – We use the WISC-V to evaluate a child’s intellectual functioning.
Functional assessment – We use a series of tests to identify strengths and weaknesses including: phonological processing, decoding (reading), encoding (spelling), reading comprehension, written expression, mathematics, and socio-emotional functioning.
Social, emotional and behavioural assessment – We use a range of tools to measure social skills, emotional health and behavioural functioning, with feedback gathered from parents, teachers along with reports on the child’s own thoughts and feelings.
Results interpretation and report preparation – We go beyond simply reporting data, and instead provide parents with a detailed interpretation that explains the meanings of the assessment results.
Parent feedback consultation – We meet with both parents (if possible) to clarify the assessment findings and discuss strategies for intervention.
Recommendations – We make recommendations on programs that have been well researched to achieve real results to assist your child.

Contact us today to discuss your needs and request an appointment.

A gifted assessment at ESA West Leederville involves understanding Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and identifying intellectual giftedness, denoting an IQ above 130, placing individuals in the top 2%.

Gifted testing requires specialised expertise beyond standard IQ assessments.

To be considered for acceleration or enrichment programs, many schools require a psycho-educational evaluation by a Registered Psychologist.

Commonly used IQ tests include the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-V), Wechsler Preschool & Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI-IV), and Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale (SB5).

Functional assessments measure achievement in areas like reading and maths, providing insight into a child’s strengths and weaknesses.

At ESA West Leederville, we employ a cross-battery assessment approach, tailoring tools to measure unique characteristics for each child.

This approach is especially beneficial for identifying the needs of intellectually advanced children, including those who are ‘twice exceptional’.

Contact us today to discuss your needs and request an appointment.

An Intellectual Assessment at ESA West Leederville involves evaluating both intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour.

Intellectual functioning, assessed using the WISC-V or WPPSI-IV, impacts three domains: conceptual (language, reasoning), social (empathy, communication), and practical (self-management).

Behavioural rating scales help assess social and practical domains.

The diagnosis of intellectual disability is challenging, and ongoing support is offered to families.

Referrals to allied health professionals are made when needed.

Contact us today to discuss your needs and request an appointment.

Dyslexia, now known as Specific Learning Disorder (Reading), is a neurobiological disorder affecting reading and spelling despite normal intelligence.

Early indicators include struggles with letters, phonemes, and word recognition.

Assessments, involving an IQ test and functional evaluation, provide a thorough diagnosis.

Dyslexia testing at ESA West Leederville focuses on unravelling complexities and offers recommendations for evidence-based interventions, emphasising early identification for effective literacy development.

Contact us today to discuss your needs and request an appointment.

Click here to find out more.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects a child’s behaviour, with symptoms in inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

A comprehensive assessment, including parent interviews, IQ testing, and behavioural assessments, uncovers strengths and struggles.

The process aids in understanding ADHD’s impact on intellectual, learning, and social functioning.

While the assessment at ESA West Leederville doesn’t provide a formal diagnosis, it guides parents on appropriate interventions, including therapy and referrals to specialists.

Contact us today to discuss your needs and request an appointment.

Click here to find out more.

Dysgraphia, a Specific Learning Disorder in written expression, presents challenges in spelling, handwriting, and organisation.

Motor-based dysgraphia involves mechanical handwriting difficulties, while language-based dysgraphia relates to structuring and sequencing ideas.

Assessment, recommended from Year 5 onwards, includes an IQ test and a literacy functional assessment.

Tailored cross-battery tests at ESA West Leederville offer a deeper understanding of individual struggles, aiding psychologists in accurate diagnoses and targeted recommendations.

Contact us today to discuss your needs and request an appointment.

Click here to find out more.

The following is a list of useful links for family support and emotional wellbeing:

General information and support

Black Dog Institute

Information, education, and resources surrounding the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder.

blackdoginstitute.org.au

Beyond Blue

Information and support for a wide range of people who may be experiencing difficulties with mental wellbeing, including depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

beyondblue.org.au

Beyond Blue: issues for young people

Information for children, adolescents and their parents about anxiety, depression and more, including how to cope with these problems.

beyondblue.org.au

Headspace

Online and telephone support for people aged 12 to 25, their families and friends.

headspace.org.au

ReachOut

A website providing support for young people aged 14-25, including information on mental health, peer support forums, and apps via The Toolbox.

au.reachout.com

Bite Back

A website promoting resilience and mental well-being in young people (12-18 years of age). Resources include self-administered quizzes, guided meditation, and forums to provide and receive support from peers.

biteback.org.au

Self-help programs

The Brave Program

An online, interactive program for the prevention and treatment of child and adolescent anxiety.

The program was developed by a team of researchers from the University of Queensland, Griffith University and the University of Southern Queensland, and uses cognitive behaviour therapy based techniques to teach young people the skills they need to reduce their anxiety and to cope with stressful situations.

The program is available for children (8-12) and teens (12-17), as well as for parents of both these age groups.

brave4you.psy.uq.edu.au

moodgym

An online, interactive training program that teaches skills based on cognitive behaviour therapy to help with the prevention and management of symptoms of depression.

The program was developed by Australian National University and is appropriate for adults and adolescents.

moodgym.com.au

e-couch

Provides information and self-help strategies to assist with a range of issues, including modules addressing depression, anxiety, stress, loss, and relationship breakdown.

The program was developed by Australian National University and is best suited for older children and parents.

ecouch.com.au

eCentreClinic

An internet based research clinic run by Macquarie University, which develops and evaluates free online treatment courses for people suffering from a variety of symptoms, including worry, panic, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, stress, depression and low mood.

ecentreclinic.org

Beyond Now

An online tool to assist those experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings.

The program helps the user in creating a structured safety plan for use in times of distress. A web version and an app version are available.

beyondblue.org.au

Parenting

What Were We Thinking!

A resource created by Monash University to provide information and support for first time parents.

whatwerewethinking.org.au

Ngala Parenting Line

Telephone call back service for families with children aged 0 to 18 years, operating 8.00am to 8.00pm.

ngala.com.au/parenting-line/

PANDA

Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia Support for people and families affected by perinatal anxiety and depression, as well as information and education surrounding this issue.

A national helpline is available Monday to Saturday on 1300 726 306.

panda.org.au

Meet the ESA West Leederville team

Tristan Abba

Counselling Psychologist Registrar

Tristan leads the team at West Leederville bringing diverse experience from private practice and community support roles over the last 20 years. With a Master of Psychology (Counselling), he simplifies psychotherapy into solution-focused, accessible processes for young people and adults alike – addressing trauma recovery, personality difficulties, mental well-being, and family relationships.

Read full bio

Hayley Quekett

Educational and Developmental Psychologist Registrar

Hayley excels in detailed assessments for cognitive and academic strengths, learning disorders, and mental health concerns. With a Masters in Educational and Developmental Psychology, she provides intervention for anxiety, depression, and family challenges, emphasising evidence-based approaches.

Read full bio

Kimberly Sandford

Psychologist

Kimberly, a registered psychologist, employs a trauma-informed, client-centred approach. With expertise in various evidence-based therapies, she addresses anxiety, mood disorders, perinatal mental health, autism, and interpersonal relationships. Kimberly collaborates with parents on children’s mental health complexities.

Read full bio

Cadie Amalfi

Clinical Psychologist

Cadie, an endorsed clinical psychologist, focuses on the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. With a Master of Clinical Psychology, she excels in detailed assessments and conceptualisation of her clients. Cadie is a warm and empathic Clinical Psychologist who has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a range of settings; including private, public, and non-for-profit community sectors.

Read full bio

Jacqueline

Psychologist

Jacqueline is an empathetic provisionally registered psychologist who has experience working with clients from a range of backgrounds, including the disability sector, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, drug and alcohol, suicide prevention, and conducting psychometric assessments across the school context.

Read full bio

Silvia Soriani

Provisional Psychologist

Silvia completed her education in her home country Italy before moving to Australia. She is a warm and empathetic psychologist with a passion for working with children. Silvia continues studying to improve her knowledge and skills, supporting children and their families to make a positive impact in their lives.

Read full bio

Sarah Brady

Curtin University student on placement

Sarah brings a warm and genuine approach to her work with clients. She strives to understand each person or family’s unique journey and then provide a safe space to collaboratively and holistically explore their needs and goals.

Read full bio

Lucy

Clinic Administrator

Lucy is psychology graduate and ensures smooth clinic operations and can assist in matching clients with psychologists based on their needs and preferences.

Romy

Clinic Administrator

Romy is a psychology student and ensures smooth clinic operations and can assist in matching clients with psychologists based on their needs and preferences.

We’re hiring!

Early Start Australia is part of the APM Group, a global human services provider now enabling better lives for more than 1 million people each year. To view all current opportunities to join our team visit the APM Careers website by clicking the button below.

Browse open roles

Useful links

Early Start Australia West Leederville, WA

Psychology services to help you thrive

Clinic contact details

Call

Fax

Email

Tailored psychological support for children, young adults and families

Comprehensive assessment services

What you can expect at Early Start Australia West Leederville

How we can help you

Psychology services

Learning assessments

Behaviour assessments

Development assessments

ADHD intervention program

Let’s get started on your therapy journey

Frequently Asked Questions

General information and support

Black Dog Institute

Beyond Blue

Beyond Blue: issues for young people

Headspace

ReachOut

Bite Back

Self-help programs

The Brave Program

moodgym

e-couch

eCentreClinic

Beyond Now

Parenting

What Were We Thinking!

Ngala Parenting Line

PANDA

Clinic contact details

Call

Fax

Email

Opening hours

Meet the ESA West Leederville team

Tristan Abba

Counselling Psychologist Registrar

Hayley Quekett

Educational and Developmental Psychologist Registrar

Kimberly Sandford

Psychologist

Cadie Amalfi

Clinical Psychologist

Jacqueline

Psychologist

Silvia Soriani

Provisional Psychologist

Sarah Brady

Curtin University student on placement

Lucy

Clinic Administrator

Romy

Clinic Administrator

We’re hiring!

Early Start Australia is part of the APM Group, a global human services provider now enabling better lives for more than 1 million people each year. To view all current opportunities to join our team visit the APM Careers website by clicking the button below.

Useful links

Who we help

Our services

About ESA

Careers

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