I am an educational and developmental psychologist, a Lecturer in Educational Psychology, and the Course Coordinator of the Master of Psychology (Educational and Developmental) at the Faculty of Education, University of Melbourne. I am the recipient of a Faculty of Education Award for Teaching Excellence (2026) and the Lead Psychologist at St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar, where I oversee a whole‑school approach to wellbeing that received an Excellence Award for Best Student Wellbeing Program at the Australian Education Awards (2023).

I have practised as an educational and developmental psychologist in private and educational settings for more than 20 years. My clinical work, teaching, and research are underpinned by my conviction that our deepest need is to be seen, heard, and accepted, and that good listening is fundamental to children’s wellbeing.

My mission is to advocate for the crucial importance of listening to children.

Book

This book introduces a new relationship-oriented approach to child therapy grounded in the idea that positive relationships are essential for children’s mental health and wellbeing. I emphasise the importance of cultivating the child-therapist bond and working with families and teachers to nurture the wellbeing of children. By establishing and maintaining strong connections with children, and by actively including families and teachers in the therapeutic process, child therapists can truly support children to heal and grow.

Recent Media

• Radio New Zealand - “How do I know my child is ready to leave the house on their own?” - 7 October 2026. Read

• ABC Radio Sydney - Part 1 - 5 October 2026. Listen

• ABC Radio Sydney - Part 2 - 5 October 2026. Listen

• ABC News - “How do I know my child is ready to leave the house on their own?” - 3 October 2026. Read

• The Conversation - “How do I know my child is ready to leave the house on their own?” - 1 October 2026. Read

• ABC Radio Perth - 1 October 2026. Listen

• Subject for Change Podcast - Episode 28: “Listening for Connection” - 28 August 2026. Listen