At Connections Psychology and Assessment, we provide compassionate, evidence-based support for a range of mental health concerns.

We work with individuals experiencing adjustment difficulties, life transitions, burnout, depression, anxiety, relationship stressors, perinatal challenges, parenting difficulties, self-esteem concerns, sleep disturbance, and trauma. Assessments for ADHD and Autism are provided at client request.

Lisa has a special interest in supporting women’s mental health and wellbeing across the life span and neurodivergent individuals.

Women’s Mental Health

Research consistently shows that women and female adolescents experience higher rates of common mental health conditions compared to males, particularly for anxiety and depression. For example, women are about twice as likely to be diagnosed with anxiety disorders, and young women aged 16–24 years, have been found to experience common mental health problems at rates up to three times higher than their male peers.

  • Similarly, large-scale adolescent data indicates that female teens report significantly higher rates of anxiety and depression than males, with studies showing substantially higher proportions of diagnosed anxiety (around 20% vs 12%) and depression (around 11% vs 6%) among girls.

    Additionally, perimenopause and menopause are increasingly recognised as significant periods of vulnerability for women’s mental health, including hormonal fluctuations, sleep disturbance, vasomotor symptoms (night sweats, body temperature rising), cognitive changes (forgetfulness, memory lapses), and psychosocial stressors (increased irritability, mood changes and decreased confidence). These changes contribute to increased rates of anxiety, depression, irritability, emotional dysregulation, and reduced quality of life. Research demonstrates that women in the menopausal transition are significantly more likely to experience clinically relevant depressive and anxiety symptoms compared with pre-menopausal women.

Neurodivergence

Research indicates that neurodivergent individuals may be more likely to experience trauma due to factors such as social exclusion, misunderstanding, sensory sensitivities, and environments that are not well-adapted to their needs. Evidence also suggests that trauma can sometimes be overlooked or misinterpreted in neurodivergent people, highlighting the importance of trauma-informed, neuro-affirming approaches that recognise how these experiences interact and impact wellbeing.

  • Emerging research indicates that neurodivergent women and girls often experience elevated rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout, partly due to factors such as social camouflaging (masking), chronic invalidation, and unmet support needs. Evidence also suggests that neurodivergence is frequently under-recognised or diagnosed later in females, which can contribute to prolonged stress and reduced access to appropriate supports, highlighting the importance of gender-sensitive and neuro-affirming mental health care.

How We Can Help

Therapy at Connections Psychology is tailored to your individual needs. Lisa takes a holistic and collaborative approach, working alongside you to understand your unique experiences and goals.

You may be navigating significant life changes—such as often feeling anxious or stressed, struggling to feel motivated, becoming a parent, going through separation or divorce, shifting careers, adjusting to an empty nest or feeling like it is hard to be your authentic self in a world that was not built for you. You might be finding it difficult to bounce back after setbacks, or feeling concerned about your child’s behaviour and wellbeing. 

Lisa uses evidence-based treatment modalities, meaning that the approaches are grounded in research and proven to be effective across a range of presentations.

All therapy is conducted using neuro-affirming and trauma-informed practice.

Lisa’s goal is that you leave each session with something meaningful—whether that’s a new skill, a clear plan, a fresh perspective, or simply a sense of relief and clarity.

Psychological assessments can be a helpful tool for understanding how a person thinks, learns, communicates and experiences the world, rather than simply providing a label. They can identify strengths and recommendations for support, helping individuals, families, educators and other professionals access the understanding and supports that best fit the individual.

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Assessment can be an important step in understanding a person’s strengths, challenges and developmental differences.

Knowing what is going on is often more helpful than ignoring or struggling against it without an explanation. Early identification can support timely intervention and practical strategies, though understanding is valuable at any age. Even when assessment comes later in life, greater self-awareness, appropriate support and self-compassion can make a meaningful difference.

Treatment Modalities

At Connections Psychology and Assessment, we use evidence-based treatment approaches that are grounded in research and shown to be effective for a range of concerns. Therapy is tailored to your individual needs, with a focus on neuro-affirming and trauma-informed care. Therapy may incorporate one or more of the following modalities.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. It helps you identify unhelpful thinking patterns and develop more balanced, realistic ways of thinking. CBT also supports you in building practical skills to manage difficult emotions and change behaviours that may be keeping you stuck. This approach is particularly effective for concerns such as anxiety, depression, and stress.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness involves learning to pay attention to the present moment with openness and without judgement. This approach can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings, rather than becoming overwhelmed by them. Mindfulness techniques can support emotional regulation, reduce stress, and improve overall wellbeing by helping you respond more calmly and intentionally to life’s challenges.

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a compassionate, insight-oriented approach that understands the mind as made up of different “parts,” each with its own role and perspective. Some parts may carry pain or vulnerability, while others work to protect you. IFS helps you develop a deeper understanding of these parts, heal internal conflicts, and build a stronger sense of self-leadership. This approach can be particularly helpful for trauma, emotional overwhelm, and longstanding patterns.

Self-Compassion Focused Therapy (SCFT)

Self-Compassion Focused Therapy (SCFT) supports you in developing a kinder, more understanding relationship with yourself. Many people experience a strong inner critic, especially during times of stress or difficulty. SCFT helps you learn how to respond to yourself with warmth and compassion, rather than self-judgement. This approach can improve resilience, reduce shame, and support emotional healing.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps you learn to accept difficult thoughts and feelings rather than fighting against them. It focuses on building psychological flexibility—supporting you to stay present, clarify your values, and take meaningful action aligned with what matters most to you. ACT is particularly helpful for managing anxiety, stress, and life transitions, and for creating a richer, more purposeful life.