Amanda Buckland Psychologist

*** IMPORTANT UPDATE MARCH 2022: Amanda's caseload is at full capacity, and she is currently UNABLE to accept new referrals. *** WAITLIST: If you are interested in being placed on Amanda's Wait List for (1) Short, medium or long-term psychological support, and/or (2) a Single-Session Consultation, please email Amanda at Neurodivergent Psychologist on: amanda@neurodivergentpsychologist.com ) ABOUT AMANDA: *** Amanda founded Neurodivergent Psychologist in 2021, as an Autistic-led, Neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, and diversity-affirming Virtual Practice. The Social Model rather than the Medical Model of Disability is used to understand Neurodivergence, and support is tailored accordingly. Telehealth sessions are standard, although home or outreach visits can be arranged. Therapy is trauma-informed and considers an individual or family’s unique lived experience, culture, neurophysiology, communication style, sensory profile, mental and physical health, and goals. *** Amanda is a late-identified and proudly Autistic, ADHD, and otherwise Neurodivergent individual. She is mother to Neurodivergent teens, human to four cats, and Registered Psychologist with more than 20 years professional experience. At Neurodivergent Psychologist, Amanda works with young people, adults, parents, and families across the lifespan, many whom are Neurodivergent or Neurodivergent-questioning. ** Previously Amanda worked for many years as a school-based Psychologist, supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young people, with a focus on inclusion and diversity, and supporting young people at risk. *** Amanda’s personal style is authentic, person-centred, and relational. Sessions are typically relaxed and informal, where unmasking, movement, and attending to physical and sensory needs is encouraged. Individuals are invited to email updates and questions that can be referred to in session, make use the chat or drawing function whilst on Telehealth, and share photos, memes, or drawings. Where suitable, Amanda incorporates animal assisted therapy principals into virtual sessions and home-visits, as many Neurodivergent children and adults find animals a source of comfort and emotion regulation. Amanda honours and respects each person's unique lived experience, identity, values, culture, customs, communication, and need for personal autonomy. SERVICES PROVIDED: *** TELEHEALTH SESSIONS are standard, and available Australia-Wide. Amanda offers 60, 90, or 120-minute sessions, on a single-session, short term, medium, or longer-term basis. Amanda schedules sessions flexibly, depending on the needs of the individual at the time, and does not use lock in contracts. A Fee Schedule and Terms and Conditions Form may be requested by emailing the practice. *** Telehealth provides an opportunity for individuals, parents and families within the Autistic and Neurodivergent Community (or those who suspect they or a loved one may be Neurodivergent) to access Neurodivergent-affirming Support with a Psychologist of their choice, without the barrier of travelling or needing to live locally. *** HOME VISIT & OUTREACH SESSIONS may be arranged for young people who require this, and who are Local to Eltham in Metropolitan Melbourne (travel costs apply). However, before referring, please consider that the primary mode of therapy offered will be via Telehealth. *** AUTISM SCREENING: Amanda does not offer formal Autism or Cognitive Assessments and, is not able to provide the detailed Diagnostic Assessment Reports which are required when applying to access the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or Program for Students with Disabilities (PSD) in schools. *** However, for those receiving an ongoing service, Amanda can offer screening and preliminary opinion regarding Autism and other Neurodivergence, and brief Referral Letters for those wishing to undergo formal assessment elsewhere. ***. NDIS REFERRALS (National Disability Insurance Scheme): Short-term or longer-term Psychological Therapy and Parent Support is offered where this is funded as part of a NDIS Participant's Self-managed or Plan Managed NDIS Plan. Amanda's approach to Therapy is identity-affirming, embraces Autistic Culture, and uses the Social Model (rather than the Medical Model) of Disability. For children and adolescents, Amanda works closely with parents and caregivers. ***. GP REFERRALS (MEDICARE): As a Psychologist with General Registration, Amanda offers Focused Psychological Strategies to support the mental health of young people and adults referred under a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP), or Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDMP). Medicare rebates may apply, but there will be out of pocket costs. *** SINGLE-SESSION Neurodivergent-affirming consultation, education or coaching for Parents, Teachers, or Professionals. *** SINGLE-SESSION Psychological Support, which may include screening, preliminary recommendations, and referral options for further assessment or support. OTHER: This is a summary of support offered. If you have questions, please let us know.