Child Psychologist Sydney

Child Psychologist Eastern Suburbs

Our Expert Approach to Child Psychology in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs

At McKinnon Psychology, we believe that every child deserves to thrive.

Our experienced team specialises in working with children and adolescents aged 3-17. We combine warmth with clinical expertise to help young people overcome emotional, behavioural, and developmental challenges.

Think of therapy as building a bridge. We connect where your child is now to where they want to be. Our registered psychologists use proven methods like Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and attachment-based approaches. But we make it fun—using play, games, and creative activities that help children open up naturally.

Comprehensive Child Mental Health Services

Our paediatric psychologist Sydney team provides specialised support for a wide range of concerns:

• Anxiety and worry – helping children manage fears, separation anxiety, and school refusal therapy Sydney through our specialised anxiety treatment programs
• ADHD and attention difficulties – comprehensive ADHD assessment Sydney children and ongoing support
• Behavioural challenges – evidence-based child behavioural therapy Sydney for oppositional behaviours and emotional regulation
• Depression and mood concerns – compassionate child depression treatment Sydney
• Trauma and adjustment – specialised child trauma therapy Sydney for life transitions and difficult experiences
• OCD – Exposure Response Prevention treatment for OCD therapy in children.
• Learning difficulties – comprehensive learning difficulties assessment Sydney

We also run specialised programs: the Cool Kids Anxiety Program and Circle of Security for parents. All delivered by accredited clinicians. Explore our full range of specialised services.

What to Expect from Child Counselling Sydney

Finding the right support for your child can feel overwhelming. We make it simple.

Our Edgecliff clinic is warm and welcoming—designed with young people in mind. Just five minutes from Edgecliff station, we’re easily accessible from Bondi, Double Bay, Woollahra, and beyond. Families from the eastern suburbs, inner west, and lower north shore find our central location convenient for regular appointments.

Comprehensive Assessments by Child Psychologists

The first step of therapy with a child involves a comprehensive assessment of your child’s issues. Think of assessment as creating a map for your child’s journey. We offer two options:

1. Standard Assessment We meet with you and your child separately. Our holistic approach looks at the whole picture—school, home, friendships. This gives us a clear view of what’s happening.
2. In-Depth Psychometric Assessment Sometimes we need to dig deeper. This comprehensive testing reveals how young people learn, think, and process emotions. Perfect when standard approaches haven’t helped.

Worried about attention or hyperactivity? Our ADHD assessment Sydney children service follows best-practice guidelines.

Benefits of Telehealth Child Psychology Services

Can’t make it to Edgecliff? No problem.

Our telehealth psychologist services bring expert support right to your home. Many kids actually prefer online sessions—they’re in their comfort zone.

We’ve fine-tuned our online delivery. Interactive activities, digital tools, and creative exercises work brilliantly on screen. Same quality care, more convenience for busy families.

Our Child Psychology Sydney Team’s Expertise

Each psychologist meets Australian Psychological Society standards with specialised training in youth mental health. Many hold extra certifications in specific therapeutic approaches.

We take a holistic approach. We don’t just treat symptoms—we see the whole child. Working with schools, doctors, and other professionals when needed, we ensure comprehensive support for families. This team approach means better outcomes for everyone.

Common Questions About Child Psychology Services

What’s the difference between a psychologist and an accredited mental health social worker?

Both are wonderful options for your family! Psychologists have specialised training in assessment, diagnosis, and psychological therapies. Accredited mental health social workers bring expertise in family systems, community resources, and therapeutic interventions. At McKinnon Psychology, we have both—meaning we can match you with the professional who best suits your child’s needs. Both can provide Medicare-rebatable services with a Mental Health Care Plan.

How do I know if my child needs to see a psychologist?

If your child is struggling with emotions, behaviour, or daily functioning for more than a few weeks, it may be helpful to seek support. Common signs include persistent worry, social withdrawal, behavioural changes, or academic difficulties. Our intake team can help you determine if our services would benefit your family.

How do I explain to my child why they’re seeing a psychologist?

We recommend an age-appropriate, matter-of-fact approach. For younger children, you might explain that they’re meeting someone who helps kids with big feelings or tricky problems. For older children, you can be more direct about addressing specific challenges they’re facing.

How involved will I be in my child’s therapy?

Parent involvement varies based on your child’s age, the presenting issues, and treatment approach. We’ll discuss this during the assessment phase and adapt as treatment progresses. For younger children, parent involvement is typically greater.

How long will my child need to see a psychologist?

Every child’s journey is unique. Some children benefit from short-term intervention (6-10 sessions), while others need longer-term support. We regularly review progress and adjust treatment plans to ensure we’re meeting your child’s evolving needs.

Will my child’s information be kept confidential?

Yes, we maintain strict confidentiality within legal and ethical guidelines. We’ll discuss our confidentiality policy during your first session and explain any circumstances where information might need to be shared (such as safety concerns).

Do you work with schools across Sydney?

Yes, when appropriate and with your permission, we can collaborate with your child’s teacher to ensure a consistent approach between school and home environments.

Do you offer face-to-face or Telehealth sessions for children?

Yes! We’re flexible. Visit us at our warm Edgecliff clinic for in-person sessions, or connect from home via secure video telehealth. Many families love having options—perhaps face-to-face for initial assessments and telehealth for busy weeks. Whatever works best for your family, we’ll make it happen.