About Steps & Stones Psychology
Compassionate, Evidence-Based Care in the Adelaide Foothills
Welcome to Steps and Stones Psychology. We are a boutique practice located in Blackwood, South Australia, dedicated to helping children and adolescents navigate their unique developmental journeys.
We understand that seeking a psychologist for your child, whether for a diagnosis, therapy, or social support, can feel overwhelming. Our mission is to replace that confusion with clarity. We provide a neuro-affirming space where your child is seen, understood, and celebrated for exactly who they are.
Meet Your Psychologist
Bronte Timoshanko
Registered Psychologist | Qualified Social Worker
AHPRA Registration: PSY0002446539
Hello, I’m Bronte. I founded Steps and Stones Psychology with a simple goal: to bridge the gap between clinical diagnosis and practical, real-world support.
My background is unique. Before registering as a Psychologist, I trained and worked as a Social Worker. This dual perspective shapes everything I do. I don’t just look at “symptoms” or “test scores”; I look at the whole child, their family, their school environment, and the systems they need to navigate (like the NDIS).
My Approach
I am deeply committed to neuro-affirming practice. This means I view conditions like Autism and ADHD not as deficits to be fixed, but as different neurotypes that come with their own unique strengths and challenges. My role is to help your child understand his or her own brain, build advocacy skills, and find strategies that work for them.
When I am not in the clinic, you will find me reading, exploring nature in the Adelaide Hills, or continuing my professional development to ensure I am bringing the latest evidence-based tools to your family.
Qualifications
- Graduate Diploma of Psychology Advanced – Monash University
- Master of Social Work – Flinders University
- Bachelor of Psychological Science – University of Adelaide
Our Philosophy
More Than Just a Report
At Steps and Stones, we believe that an assessment or therapy session is only valuable if it leads to real change in a child’s life.
Holistic View
We know that a child’s well-being is influenced by a complex interplay of cognitive, emotional, and social factors. We assess the “whole child,” not just the presenting problem.
Strengths-Based
We don’t just identify challenges; we actively hunt for strengths. Whether it’s a creative mind, a sharp memory, or a deep empathy for others, we use these strengths as the foundation for growth.
Family-Centred
We empower parents. We know that you are the expert on your child, and our job is to give you the tools, language, and confidence to advocate for them.
Our Services
We have expanded our practice to offer a complete circle of care for children and teenagers.
1. Comprehensive Assessments
We provide rigorous diagnostic evaluations to answer the “why” behind your child’s challenges.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Neuro-affirming diagnosis using the ADOS-2.
- ADHD Assessments: Investigating attention, impulsivity, and executive function.
- Cognitive & Educational: Identifying Specific Learning Disorders (Dyslexia/Dysgraphia) and Intellectual Disability.
- Preschool Assessments: Early investigation of developmental delays and school readiness.
2. Child & Adolescent Therapy
Evidence-based intervention for anxiety, emotional regulation, and self-esteem.
- CBT & Play Therapy: Tailored to your child’s age.
- Parent Coaching: Helping you co-regulate with your child.
3. Social Skills Group Program (Based on KONTAKT)
We facilitate a structured group program utilising the evidence-based KONTAKT protocol.
- Multidisciplinary Leadership: Co-facilitated by Bronte (Psychologist) and a Speech Pathologist.
- The Program: A 16-session curriculum designed to help neurodivergent youth decipher social cues, understand group dynamics, and build lasting friendships in a safe, supportive environment.
Located in Blackwood
A Safe Space in the Hills
We are proud to serve families across the Adelaide Hills, Mitcham, and Onkaparinga Council areas. Our clinic is designed to be low-sensory and welcoming, ensuring that even anxious children feel safe from the moment they walk through the door.
Have Any Questions?
Book a Complimentary Discussion with Bronte
Finding the right psychologist is personal. I invite you to book a complimentary 10-minute phone discussion.
This is a no-pressure opportunity to share your concerns, ask about our process, and ensure we are the right fit for your child’s needs.
