Our team

PSYCHOLOGICAL TREATMENT, SUPERVISION

Melissa Johnstone, Clinical Psychologist and Practice Director

Melissa is a registered Clinical Psychologist, a Member of the Australian Psychological Society and Psychology Board of Australia approved supervisor. Melissa is well known for her commitment to excellence in best practice and positive outcomes for clients. Melissa’s warmth, clinical expertise, and absolute regard for each client means that clients are safely and supportively held through the therapeutic process.

Melissa holds special interest in supporting clients recovering from trauma and interpersonal violence, and is also experienced in focussed psychological strategies for mental illness and adjustment to life changes. Melissa practices inclusive and diversity affirming care and supports clients towards achieving change specific to each person’s goal and situation.

Melissa particularly enjoys provididng clinical and professional supervision to psychologists, social workers and professionals working in welfare, child protection and wellbeing fields to build professional competency and delivery of quality clinical care.

PSYCHOLOGICAL TREATMENT

Rhiannon Gaffney, Psychologist

Rhiannon Gaffney commenced her psychology career in 2012 and is registered with Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and is a Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS). Rhiannon holds special interest providing focussed psychological strategies for a range of mental health, relational and wellbeing issues for adults. Rhiannon has an ongoing commitment to professional development through ongoing training and utilises a range of evidence based therapeutic modalities. Rhiannon utilises a client centred approach and is highly regarded for her warmth and empathy; allowing clients to move through the therapeutic process with ease.

Rhiannon spent her early career years in the Newcastle area working with children, young people and their families who had experienced complex trauma and a range of mental health issues. She has also worked with a charity organisation providing therapy and support to young people, their families, their school/s and school staff.

Rhiannon accepts self-referral, GP Mental Health Care Plan and Employee Assistance Program referrals.

PSYCHOLOGICAL TREATMENT, ASSESSMENT

Liam Higham, Psychologist

Liam commenced his career as a psychologist in 2017, and he has enjoyed working with people across the lifespan for provision of therapy and psychological assessment. Liam particularly pings with neuroatypical children and their families. His bad puns, dad jokes and interest in pop culture (especially Dr Who and Harry Potter) allow him quickly and easily build rapport with young clients.

Liam has experience working with a range of presentations, including anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, behavioural difficulties, interpersonal difficulties, and stress. Liam has skills in therapeutic play, engaging adolescents, trauma, and working with divorced and step-families. He is also experienced in administering psychometric assessments, including cognitive, adaptive, learning and academic achievement, and personality assessments, as well as behavioural, ADHD and ASD diagnostic assessments.

Heather Zell Office Administration

Heather’s warm interpersonal style and commitment to our clients ensures a welcoming front face to Darling St Practice. Heather’s background in GP office administration supports the smooth running of Darling St Practice and communication with referrers.

Heather is often heard talking about how much she loves her job (and her cat) and prides herself on providing a safe space for clients throughout their care journey.

Kathy Hall Office Administration

Kathy’s approachable and efficient manner is appreciated by clients and colleagues. Attention to detail is one of Kathy’s many strengths, and alongside her colleagues she prides herself on ensuring office administration tasks are completed with the respect and care they deserve.