Child & Adolescent Psychology Services
Empowering Children with the Tools to Navigate Big Emotions, and Supporting Parents to Guide Them
At Steps and Stones Psychology, we believe that therapy is not just about ‘fixing’ a problem, it is about building resilience. Located in Blackwood, South Australia, we provide a warm, safe, and neuro-affirming space for children to explore their feelings and learn practical strategies for life.
Whether your child is struggling with anxiety, navigating a new diagnosis (like ADHD), or simply having trouble regulating their emotions, our evidence-based approach is tailored to meet them exactly where they are.
Our Therapeutic Approach
What We Offer
We do not believe in a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. Every child is unique, so we select the most appropriate mix of evidence-based tools to suit your child’s age, developmental stage, and specific goals.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Commonly used to support: Anxiety, Phobias, and Negative Self-Talk. CBT is a structured approach that helps children understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. We make CBT engaging for kids, teaching them how to be “detectives” of their own thoughts and how to challenge worries.
Play Therapy Techniques
Ideal for: Younger children and Emotional Expression. Children often lack the verbal vocabulary to explain complex feelings. Play is their natural language. Through structured play, art, and creative activities, we help children process emotions, resolve conflicts, and build confidence in a non-threatening way.
Mindfulness & Regulation Strategies
Often helpful for: ADHD, Impulsivity, and Stress. We teach practical, body-based techniques to help children recognise when their “engine is running too fast” and how to slow it down. This includes breathing exercises, grounding techniques, and sensory awareness.
Parent Support & Coaching
Focusing on: Family dynamics and Behavioural challenges. We know that parents are the true agents of change. We offer dedicated sessions for parents to discuss strategies, understand their child’s triggers, and learn how to co-regulate with their child at home.
What We Can Help With
Our Blackwood clinic supports children and families navigating a wide range of challenges, including:
- Anxiety & Worries: Separation anxiety, social anxiety, and general fears.
- Emotional Regulation: Difficulty managing anger, frustration, or ‘meltdowns’.
- Neurodivergent Support: Post-diagnosis support for ADHD and Autism (affirming their identity and building executive functioning skills).
- School Challenges: School refusal, bullying, or peer relationship issues.
- Self-Esteem: Building confidence and resilience.
Fees, Rebates & Funding
Standard Consultation Fee
Investment: $250 per 55-minute session. This fee applies to both initial intake appointments and ongoing therapy sessions.
Medicare (Mental Health Care Plans)
We are a provider of Medicare psychology services. If you have a valid Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from your GP, Paediatrician, or Psychiatrist, you are eligible for a rebate on up to 10 sessions per calendar year.
- This leaves an out-of-pocket ‘gap’ of approximately $151.05.
- Note: If your family has reached the Medicare Safety Net, your rebate may be significantly higher, reducing your gap fee further.
- Please bring your referral to your first appointment.
NDIS Support
We welcome NDIS participants who are Self-Managed or Plan-Managed.
- Please Note: We are not a registered NDIS provider, so we cannot accept Agency-Managed funds.
- We recommend checking with your Plan Manager to ensure your funding category covers ‘Therapeutic Supports’ (Capacity Building).
Private Health Insurance
If you have private health extras cover, you may be eligible for a rebate depending on your specific policy.
- Note: You cannot claim both Medicare and Private Health for the same session.
The Therapy Journey: What to Expect
Step 1: Initial Parent Intake
For young children, our first session is usually with the parents/caregivers alone. This allows us to discuss the history and concerns openly without the child present.
Step 2: Child Sessions
We begin building rapport with your child. These sessions are fun, engaging, and paced to ensure your child feels safe.
Step 3: Review & Collaboration
Therapy is a team effort. We regularly review progress with parents to ensure the strategies we use in the clinic are translating to home and school life.
Frequently Asked Questions
You do not need a referral to see us privately. However, if you wish to claim the Medicare rebate, you must obtain a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP before the session.
Yes, we work with children and adolescents. For teenagers, the approach is often more collaborative, involving them more directly in setting their therapy goals.
Standard therapy sessions are approximately 55 minutes.
Take the First Step
Support is just a phone call away. Whether you are ready to book or just have a few questions, we are here to help your family thrive.
Still Unsure?
Finding the right 'fit' for your child is essential. We invite you to book a complimentary 10-minute phone consultation. This is a no-pressure opportunity to ask questions and ensure our approach aligns with your family’s needs.
