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Psychology

This page has information about the Child and Family Program’s Community-based Psychology services.

Psychology

Psychologists support children and families with behaviour and emotion related concerns.

What we do

Psychologists in the program work with children aged 0 -14 years of age and their families to provide assessment and interventions for a range of concerns. These may include:

  • child anxiety and depression
  • behavioural and developmental issues
  • social difficulties
  • emotional difficulties
  • transition to school concerns
  • attachment difficulties
  • cognitive function – ability and achievement assessments (when indicated)
  • parental adjustment to child illness/disability/behaviour

Our team

Child and Family Psychologists are highly qualified and skilled practitioners. They work with children and their families to help them “live their best lives”.

Who can use this service?

People who can use this service:

  • children aged 0-14 who live in the City of Greater Dandenong, City of Casey, or Cardinia Shire
  • OR cannot access local services due to poor transport accessibility
  • OR service is not provided by local community health service

People who cannot use this service:

  • children who come from high-income families
  • children with acute severe psychiatric issues, including current suicidal thoughts or self-harm behaviours. Please refer to Early in Life Mental Health Services (ELMHS).
  • children who have been sexually assaulted. Please refer to SECASA.
  • children currently with Early Childhood Intervention Services (ECIS), or on waitlist for this service: they should be eligible to receive therapy support at these settings.
  • children being referred for a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Please refer to a paediatrician or ELMHS.
  • children with a current diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder :0 – 5 years old.
  • Family/couples therapy and family separation. Please refer to services such as Relationships Australia or Windermere.
  • current family violence. Please refer to Family Violence Services such as Safe Steps, DHHS Child Protection.
  • other members of the client’s family. Child and Family psychologists only provide child-focussed parenting sessions not individual therapy for other family members.

How to refer

For referrals please:
Phone: (03) 8572 5631
Email: iCareAccess@monashhealth.org

For more information or assistance with your referral please contact the service on childandfamilyprogram@monashhealth.org.

Please note:

  • Parents/caregivers will be required to attend assessment appointments and engage in parent/caregiver therapy sessions where clinically indicated.
  • If the child is being seen individually, parents/caregivers must remain in the waiting room for the duration of the appointment in case they are needed (e.g. child becomes distressed, risk issues arise or the child requires assistance to go to the toilet).

Cost

The charge for this service is based on the family income.

Where services are delivered

  • Our services are delivered at Springvale, Cranbourne, Pakenham Community Health centres.

Operating Hours

8am – 5 pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays)

Contact us

Phone 03 9792 7716

Email: childandfamilyprogram@monashhealth.org

Help contacting us

For people who need help with English or an interpreter: : TIS: 131 450

For people with hearing or speech loss: TTY: 1800 555 677

Speak and Listen: 1800 555 727

Internet relay: National Relay Service: www.relayservice.gov.au

Other useful resources and alternative services