Jigsaw Psychology

11/11/2025

We’re often quick to correct, but real change starts when a child feels seen, heard, and safe. Behaviour shifts when there's connection. Lead with empathy, not just discipline.
"Connection changes behaviour more than correction ever will."

More information in my book
Guidance from The Therapist Parent
Available on my website www.thetherapistparent.com and Amazon

05/11/2025

Update: Changes to the Medicare Better Access initiative

From 1 November 2025, the Australian Government has introduced changes to the Better Access to Psychiatrists, Psychologists and General Practitioners through the Medicare Benefits Schedule (Better Access) initiative.

These updates aim to strengthen continuity of care, improve integration between physical and mental health services, and support better communication between patients and their regular healthcare providers.

Key changes include:

Continuity of care - Mental Health Treatment Plans (MHTPs), referrals and reviews must now be provided by the patient’s MyMedicare registered practice or usual medical practitioner.
Greater flexibility for GPs - Removal of specific MHTP review and consultation items allows use of time-tiered general attendance items, giving GPs flexibility to tailor care to patient needs.
There are no changes to Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plan (EDP) items.

📅 Referrals dated before 1 November 2025 remain valid until all sessions under that referral are completed.

For people accessing care for eating disorders or other mental health concerns, these changes aim to ensure consistent, affordable and coordinated care.

🔗 To learn more, visit https://www.mbsonline.gov.au/

04/11/2025

It's exam time for many across Victoria, and we know that can feel like A LOT!
Here are some of our thoughts and reflections.
We wish all of our students luck in the coming weeks, but above all we hope they are able to hold in mind that, while this period is important, it is only one chapter in your story, and it doesn't define your worth or your future.

27/10/2025

October is ADHD Awareness Month - a time to deepen understanding, challenge myths, and celebrate the strengths of neurodiversity.
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is not just about being “distracted” or “hyper.” It’s a difference in the way the brain regulates attention, motivation, and energy - often bringing creativity, focus in areas of interest, and unique problem-solving skills.
But it can also mean daily challenges with organisation, time management, and emotional regulation - especially in a world not built for neurodiverse minds.
Awareness helps us move from judgement ➜ to understanding, and from stigma ➜ to support.

10/10/2025

🌏 World Mental Health Day 2025 🧠
This year’s theme - “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes & Emergencies” - reminds us that mental health support is vital before, during, and after crisis.
Whether it’s bushfires, floods, or community emergencies, the emotional recovery can take time - and no one should go through it alone. 💚
Today, take a moment to check in with yourself and others. Small acts of connection and care can make a big difference.

26/09/2025

RANZCP is concerned about the claims linking paracetamol use in to . These claims are not supported by any scientific evidence and contradict the findings of rigorous medical research.

Paracetamol is considered safe for use in pregnancy as per the Therapeutic Goods Administration - TGA, Medsafe and the wider medical community. We urge people not to be alarmed by such unsubstantiated claims and to rely on the advice of experts in the field, including the TGA and Ministry of Health - Manatū Hauora New Zealand.

Healthcare decisions during pregnancy should be made with qualified medical professionals who can weigh individual needs and risks.

As our Position Statement 110 notes, stigma and discrimination act as barriers to equitable access for Autistic people, who already experience higher rates of and significantly elevated risk of su***de.

Our priority at the RANZCP remains improving their access to quality mental health care and inclusive support services in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand; while acknowledging their capability, diversity, and the contribution they make to the wider community.

We encourage media reporting and the wider public discourse about autism to be grounded in scientific evidence and to centre the voices and needs of Autistic people.

Read our Position Statement 110: https://www.ranzcp.org/clinical-guidelines-publications/clinical-guidelines-publications-library/autism-addressing-the-mental-health-needs-of-autistic-people

Autism CRC language choice: https://www.autismcrc.com.au/language-choice

25/09/2025

We’re open to new clients!
We offer face-to-face appointments at our practice in Park Orchards, and telehealth appointments Australia-wide.
We support school-aged children, teens, adults and older adults with mental health concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, Autism, ADHD, pain, and mild eating disorders. See more details on our website (link in bio).
For bookings or enquiries, call 03 8657 8626 or email admin@jigsawpsychology.com.au.
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17/09/2025

Alexa is a Clinical Psychologist and Board-Approved Supervisor. She enjoys working collaboratively with clients to help them achieve their goals, providing a safe and understanding space for them to explore issues. Alexa offers Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT), a time-limited therapy where the therapist and client work to understand the recurring patterns in thoughts, feelings, and relationships that may be keeping the client stuck, and to develop new ways forward.
For bookings or enquiries, call 03 8657 8626 or email admin@jigsawpsychology.com.au.
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06/07/2025

Dawn has IMMEDIATE availability for face-to-face (and Telehealth) appointments. She works with teens, adults and older adults. She is compassionate and client-centred in her approach, valuing her clients' lived experience and a strong therapeutic connection.
For bookings or enquiries, call 03 8657 8626 or email admin@jigsawpsychology.com.au.
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06/07/2025

As communities across Australia, particularly those in early childhood education, respond to the recent developments in Victoria, we want to remind everyone that support is always available.

28/06/2025

Family work can help with not only communication and conflicts, but also strengthening relationships and supporting members of the family unit.
For bookings or enquiries, call 03 8657 8626 or email admin@jigsawpsychology.com.au.
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12/06/2025

Our website has had an update!
We’re thrilled to be offering both face-to-face and Telehealth services to clients of all ages.
To explore more of our services and read a bit about our friendly and compassionate team of psychologists, go to https://www.jigsawpsychology.com.au/team

For bookings or enquiries, call 03 8657 8626 or email admin@jigsawpsychology.com.au.
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We are a private psychology practice offering assessments and therapy to people of all ages. Our team is made up of both General and Educational and Developmental Psychologists