East Ringwood Psychologists

The psychologists working at East Ringwood Clinic are independent health practitioners. They determine their own fees; and there may be some variation between practitioners.

Bookings are made directly with the psychologist of you choice.

Amanda Dawson

Bookings:

[email protected]

0413 765 560

General Psychologist (Female)

Masters in Psychology – Counselling

Ages: 12+ and Adults

Exclusions:

Work Cover & TAC, Eating disorders, children under 12, couples / family counselling.

Key Interests

Adolescents, Parenting, Anxiety & depression, Work / academic stress, Interpersonal issues.

Amanda has been a registered psychologist for over 10 years. During her career she has worked extensively with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings including secondary schools, local government & not for profit services, and private practice settings. Amanda aims to build a strong rapport with all of her clients & make the counselling process feel like a safe and non-judgmental space. Amanda draws on a range of frameworks including: psycho-education, Cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance & commitment therapy, solution focused therapy, mindfulness & relaxation strategies, and interpersonal skill building.

Mental Health Plans

A referral is not required to see a psychologist, but patients who are referred by their GP under the Better Access Initiative may receive a Medicare rebate if eligible. The Better Access Initiative may also be referred to as Better Access to Mental Health (BAMH) or a GP Mental Health Care Plan. For simplicity, most people just use the term Mental Health Plan.

A Mental Health Plan can be prepared by a patient’s regular GP if they diagnose a mental health condition (for example anxiety or depression). The process often takes about 30 minutes so check with your medical centre if a long appointment is required. If you do not have a regular GP, one of the Doctors at East Ringwood Clinic would be happy to help.

Once the plan is prepared, the GP will discuss treatment options with their patient. They may involve medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. Sometimes other strategies may also be suggested.

If psychology is clinically appropriate, the GP can then refer their patient for up to 10 sessions of psychology per calendar year. This is usually divided into 6 initial sessions, and the 4 further sessions if desirable. After the initial 6 sessions, the psychologist is required to send a feedback report to the GP before a referral for the next 4 are made.

Common Mental Health Conditions

Anxiety

Everybody can feel anxious at times, but an anxiety disorder interferes with your daily life with sensations such as worry, fear, agitation, and being overwhelmed. It may manifest in many variations: generalized anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, or social anxiety to name a few. Anxiety is one of the most common conditions that psychologists treat, and a variety of tools can be used depending on the circumstances.

Depression

Depression usually presents as a pervasive low mood associated with other symptoms such as disturbances in enjoyment, motivation, concentration, appetite, and sleep. Combined, these effects can negatively impact relationships, work, and overall well-being. Psychologists assist patients navigate through their feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair. Medications (antidepressants) can also play an important role in treatment.

School Refusal

School refusal is a complex issue that is rising in prevalence. The child will often present with both physical and/or emotional symptoms. Your doctor (typically a GP or paediatrician) plays an important role in excluding medical problems. Psychologists can then assist with determining the root cause of the school refusal; working through the intense emotions, and providing tools to assist the child and the parents.

Parenting Issues

A new baby can bring joy, but also significant change and stress for the parents. Postnatal depression (PND), also known as postpartum depression, is a common and treatable mental health condition that affects many new mothers. Additionally, both parents can have difficulty adjusting to the altered family dynamics and responsibilities created from their new addition.

Stress

Chronic stress can take a toll on both our mental and physical health. Work, school, finances, and relationships are common causes. Each factor may individually be minor, but the duration of the stress, and the cumulative effect of multiple stressors can create a significant impact. Psychologists understand the complex interplay between our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and they provide evidence-based interventions to address stress at its root.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can deeply affect those who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. In addition to symptoms similar to anxiety / depression, the person may experience nightmares, flash backs, and avoidance of triggering situations. PTSD is a complex condition and is often best managed by a combination of psychotherapy and medication.

Grief

Grief is a natural response to loss. Typically people go through a range of emotions, and eventually come to a position of acceptance, but sometimes people get stuck in the grieving process. Psychologists can provide support and resources to help navigate the complex emotions of grief and find a path toward healing and resilience.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

ASD is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals perceive the world and interact with others. Its prevalence is rising for reasons that are not completely clear. Early diagnosis and intervention in childhood can result in significant benefits for schooling and development.

Ringwood Psychologists - Useful Mental Health Links

East Ringwood Psychologists - Resources

DASS-21

Assessment Scale Download

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DASS-21

Assessment Scale Download

Click Here

Interpreting DASS-21 scores

	D	A	S
Normal	0-4	0-3	0-7
Mild	5-6	4-5	8-9
Moderate	7-10	6-7	10-12
Severe	11-13	8-9	13-16
Extremely Severe	14+	10+	17+

D = Depression

A = Anxiety

S = Stress