Finding the right psychologist for your child can feel overwhelming, especially when you're already juggling worries about their wellbeing. This guide explains what child psychology involves, how to fund it through the NDIS, and how to choose a provider in Perth. We also feature a selection of local practices to help you start your search.
Counselling service (not a paediatric therapy provider) offering individual, family, couples, and child/adolescent counselling. Provider is a qualified counsellor accredited with ACA; supports neurodiverse families and NDIS/disability-related concerns. Online and phone counselling available. No explicit NDIS registration or waitlist details stated.
Boutique Subiaco, WA psychology clinic offering evidence-based therapies (EMDR, CBT, CBT-E, ACT, Schema Therapy) for children to adults, including ADHD assessment. NDIS accepted, telehealth for rural/remote clients, after-hours appointments available.
Perth-based NDIS-registered provider offering Psychology, Occupational Therapy, and Positive Behaviour Support for children, adolescents, and adults. Services include ADHD assessments, sensory interventions, and FBAs. Available in-clinic (Midland and other Perth locations), mobile, and via telehealth Australia-wide.
NDIS-registered provider in Wembley, WA supporting ages 0-17 with autism, developmental delays, motor and speech challenges. Offers speech pathology, occupational therapy, psychology, physiotherapy, ESDM early intervention, telehealth, home/school visits, and immediate physiotherapy availability.
Perth-based NDIS-registered provider offering psychology, occupational therapy, and positive behaviour support for children, adolescents, and adults. Services include in-clinic, mobile, and Australia-wide telehealth options across multiple Perth metro locations including Bibra Lake.
NDIS-registered provider offering Occupational Therapy, Psychology, and Positive Behaviour Support for children, adolescents and adults. Services delivered in-clinic (Bibra Lake, Midland, South Perth, Gosnells, Morley), mobile across Perth metro, and via telehealth Australia-wide.
Perth psychology practice (Dianella, WA) offering child psychology, including Autism Spectrum Disorder/ADHD assessment and therapy, alongside general counselling services for individuals, couples and families since 1990.
Registered NDIS provider in Booragoon, WA offering Occupational Therapy, Specialist Support Coordination, Positive Behaviour Support and Neurofeedback, plus ADHD assessments. Culturally safe, trauma-informed care with Persian (Farsi) speaking staff, serving children and adults across Perth.
Child psychology focuses on how children think, feel and behave as they grow. A psychologist working with children uses age-appropriate approaches — often play-based or structured activities rather than sitting and talking — to understand what's going on for your child. This can include formal assessments (for example, cognitive, developmental, learning or social-emotional assessments) as well as ongoing therapy to build skills around emotions, behaviour, anxiety, friendships and coping.
Psychologists don't prescribe medication. If medication is something to consider, they may suggest you speak with your GP or a paediatrician. Their role is to assess, explain what they're seeing, and work with you and your child on practical strategies.
Every child has ups and downs, so it's the pattern and impact that matter. You might consider a psychologist if your child:
You don't need a diagnosis to seek help. If you're unsure, a chat with your GP or your child's school can be a good starting point.
Psychologists work with children across all ages — from toddlers and preschoolers through to primary school and teenagers. The approach changes with age: younger children benefit from play and parent-focused strategies, while older children and teens can engage in more direct, conversation-based work. Some assessments (such as certain developmental or cognitive tools) have age ranges, so it's worth asking whether a provider works with children your child's age.
The first session is usually about gathering information and building rapport. For younger children, much of this may involve talking with you as the parent about your concerns, your child's history, and what you're hoping to achieve. The psychologist may spend some time with your child, observe them, or use gentle activities to start getting to know them.
Bring along anything useful: reports from school or daycare, previous assessments, and a list of your main concerns. You'll typically agree on some goals and a rough plan for how many sessions might be helpful. It's completely normal to take a few sessions before your child feels comfortable.
Psychology fees vary. As a general guide, private sessions in Australia often range from around $200 to $300+ per session, and comprehensive assessments can cost several hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on their scope. These are general ranges only and change over time — always confirm current fees directly with the provider.
There are several ways to reduce out-of-pocket costs:
If you're self-managed or plan-managed under the NDIS, you may be able to see both registered and non-registered providers; agency-managed plans generally require NDIS-registered providers.
Use these checks to narrow your options:
This page features Perth practices including Immersive Psychology Group (Subiaco), Sigma Therapies (Midland, Bibra Lake and Gosnells), Early Start Australia (Wembley and Armadale), Shenton Psychology (Shenton Park), Prosper Health Collective (Booragoon and Stirling), Masters Psychology & Co. (Wangara), Behavioural Solutions (Fremantle) and Headstart Psychology (Wangara). Ratings and review counts are shown to help you compare, but do your own checks before booking.
Taking a little time to ask these questions upfront helps you find a good match — and the right fit makes a real difference to how your child engages.
Or read the full child psychology guide, or browse all Perth providers.
No. You can see a psychologist without a diagnosis — many families seek support to understand what's happening and build coping strategies. A psychologist may also conduct assessments that help clarify your child's needs. Your GP or your child's school can help you decide when to seek support.
Often yes. Psychology usually falls under Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living. The NDIS sets price caps for registered providers, and these are reviewed regularly. Whether you can use registered or non-registered providers depends on how your plan is managed, so check your plan and confirm billing with the provider.
Fees vary. As a general guide, private sessions in Australia often range from around $200 to $300+, and assessments can cost more depending on their scope. These are general ranges only and change over time — always confirm current fees with the provider and ask about NDIS, Medicare or private health rebates.
Waitlists can be long and vary between practices. Always ask about current wait times when you enquire, and ask whether the clinic offers a cancellation list or telehealth appointments, which can sometimes get you in sooner.
All psychologists in Australia must be registered with AHPRA (the Psychology Board of Australia), and you can verify their registration online. It's also worth asking about their experience working with children and with your specific area of concern.