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Every child's journey is different. We are here
for all of it.

At Balanced Kids Psychology, we take a neuroaffirming, strengths-based approach that recognises every child's unique way of thinking, learning and experiencing the world. We work collaboratively with children, families and schools to understand each child's individual profile and provide practical, evidence-based support that promotes confidence, wellbeing and meaningful participation across home, school and community.

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Child and Adolescent Therapy

Every child is unique, and therapy should be too. At Balanced Kids Psychology, therapy is individually tailored to each child's strengths, interests and goals. Using evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), child-led therapy, play-based interventions and emotional regulation strategies, sessions are designed to help children better understand themselves, develop confidence and build skills to manage life's challenges. All therapeutic support is grounded in a neuroaffirming, strengths-based approach that celebrates neurodiversity, fosters self-understanding and equips children, adolescents and their carers with practical tools to thrive at home, at school and in the community.

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Carer Support

Supporting a child means supporting the people who know and care for them best. Parent and carer support is an important part of the therapeutic process, providing a safe space to ask questions, gain a deeper understanding of your child's unique strengths and challenges, and build confidence in responding to their individual needs.

Every stage of childhood and adolescence brings new opportunities, as well as new challenges. Whether you're navigating big emotions, behavioural concerns, anxiety, neurodivergence, friendships, school transitions or family changes, therapy can provide practical guidance tailored to your child's developmental stage and your family's goals.

Using evidence-based, neuroaffirming approaches, I work collaboratively with parents and carers to develop practical strategies that can be incorporated into everyday life. This may include psychoeducation, strengthening communication, supporting emotional regulation, creating supportive routines at home, understanding behaviour through a compassionate lens, and building confidence in responding to challenges as they arise. Together, we'll celebrate your child's strengths while developing practical, sustainable strategies that help your whole family thrive.

How do I know if my child needs therapy?

Children may benefit from therapy if they are finding it difficult to manage their emotions, behaviour or everyday experiences. Signs may include persistent anxiety, frequent emotional outbursts, difficulty coping with change, low mood, friendship challenges, school-related stress, or difficulties associated with ADHD or autism. Therapy provides a safe, supportive space for children to develop practical skills, build confidence and strengthen emotional wellbeing.

 

2. What happens during a child therapy session?Every therapy session is tailored to your child's age, strengths and individual needs. Sessions may include conversation, play-based activities, creative tasks and evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Therapy is child-led where appropriate, helping children feel comfortable while developing emotional regulation, coping and problem-solving skills in a way that is meaningful and engaging.

 

3. What types of therapy do you use?At Balanced Kids Psychology, therapy is guided by evidence-based and neuroaffirming practice. Depending on your child's goals, intervention may incorporate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), child-led therapy, play-based interventions and emotional regulation strategies. Therapy is always individualised, recognising that every child learns, communicates and experiences the world differently.

 

4. How can therapy help children with anxiety, ADHD or autism?Therapy helps children better understand their emotions, build resilience and develop practical strategies to manage everyday challenges. For children with anxiety, therapy focuses on reducing worry and building confidence. For children with ADHD or autism, therapy supports emotional regulation, executive functioning, self-understanding, social relationships and participation in daily life using a neuroaffirming, strengths-based approach.

 

5. Will parents be involved in therapy?Yes. Parents and carers are an important part of the therapeutic process. Depending on your child's age and needs, sessions may include parent feedback, psychoeducation and practical strategies that can be used at home. Working collaboratively with families helps create consistency across environments and supports positive outcomes for children.

 

6. How long will my child need therapy?The length of therapy varies depending on your child's goals, strengths and the challenges they are experiencing. Some children benefit from short-term support focused on a specific concern, while others may engage in therapy over a longer period to develop skills and confidence as they grow. Therapy is regularly reviewed to ensure it continues to meet your child's evolving needs.⭐ Bonus FAQ (Highly Recommended)This is one of the most searched questions by parents and would add significant value to your page.How do I prepare my child for their first therapy appointment?It's helpful to explain therapy in a simple, positive and reassuring way. You might tell your child they're meeting someone whose job is to help children understand their feelings, solve problems and learn new skills. There's no need to pressure them to talk about everything straight away—building trust and rapport is an important part of the process. At Balanced Kids Psychology, we aim to create a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe, respected and comfortable being themselves.

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Balanced Kids Psychology

Emilie Lemasson

Registered Psychologist

Registration PSY0002631532
BPsych, Grad Dip Psych Adv, BMus 

Ahpra membership
AAPI membership
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Ph. 0426 039 818

1a/8 Bon-Mace Cl, Berkeley Vale NSW 2261

(Changing Tides Speech Therapy)

Clinic Hours: 8.30am to 5.30pm

Bateau Bay: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays.

Berkeley Vale: Fridays 

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At Balanced Kids Psychology we respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work, play and live, the Darkinjung People. We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging recognising that sovereignty was never ceded and their enduring connection to Country remains fundamental. We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive space for all families. We welcome people of all cultures, sexual orientations, gender identities, religions, and backgrounds. Our practice embraces diversity and is dedicated to providing support for everyone, with respect, compassion, and understanding.

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