Steve Den-Kaat

MSc (Psych) PGDip (ClinPsych) FCCLP

Clinical Psychologist – Clinic Director

Steve is the clinic director and supervisor of the team.  Steve obtained his MSc (psych) from Victoria University of Wellington, with his research in the field of Autism Spectrum Conditions (http://hdl.handle.net/10063/713). He completed his clinical training under the supervision of Professor Tony Attwood, Dr Michelle Garnett and Dr Hui Keow Lim.

Steve is a clinical psychologist who has a keen interest in working with adolescents with complex challenges including: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, conduct disorder, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. Steve’s main area of specialty is in the area of Asperger’s Syndrome and autism spectrum conditions.

Steve has provided diagnostic services and therapy in response to varying psychological needs. He has worked alongside children, adolescents and adults across the autism spectrum. In addition, Steve has presented across Australia and internationally in the area of autism spectrum conditions, with a focus on self-Identity and self-esteem.

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Dr Ramona Toscano

BPsych (Hons), DClinPsych, MAPS

Clinical Psychologist – Senior Clinical Consultant Services

Ramona completed a Bachelor of Psychology (Hons) at the University of Malta and a Doctor of Clinical Psychology at Macquarie University in Sydney. She was awarded the Macquarie University Award for Academic Excellence in 2018. Ramona’s doctoral research focused on the assessment of anxiety in children and adolescents with anxiety disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165032718328362?via%3Dihub

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165032720324733?dgcid=coauthor

During her early career, Ramona worked primarily with children and adolescents with autism and their families. Her work involved the design and implementation of Early Intervention programs, behavioural support, parent training and consultation with school and multidisciplinary teams. Ramona went on to expand her knowledge and experience in working with autistic individuals across all ages, with a continued primary focus on working with young children and adolescents.

Through her doctorate training and clinical work, Ramona gained considerable experience conducting assessments and providing treatment of anxiety and mood disorders in young people. She is skilled in providing individual and group treatment for children, adolescents and adults experiencing a range of difficulties and presentations including anxiety, depression, autism and AD/HD. Ramona is also a trained and registered facilitator for the following programs: Circle Of Security® Parenting (COSP), Social Stencil Program, Secret Agent Society (SAS).

Ramona is passionate about helping individuals lead healthy and fulfilling lives and is committed to utilising evidence based, scientifically effective treatments, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-based CBT. She is registered with the Psychology Board of Australia, is a Board-Approved Supervisor and an Adjunct Fellow for Macquarie University.

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Jennifer Ma

BPsych (Hons), MClinPsych, MAPS

Clinical Psychologist

Jennifer completed a Bachelor of Psychology with first class honours at the University of Sydney, and a Master of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney. She previously assisted to develop an online unit of study on emotional intelligence at the University of Sydney to enhance students’ ability to apply emotional, social and cognitive skills to manage everyday situations. During her clinical training, Jennifer completed placements at the UTS Psychology Clinic, Diverse Minds Psychology Clinic, and the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Osteoarthritis and Chronic Care Program Outpatient Clinic. In addition to individual therapy, she also has a keen interest in running group programs. Jennifer is a trained facilitator of a social skills program, the Secret Agent Society, and is experienced in running the PEERS program and Transition to High School workshops.

Jennifer has worked with individuals across the lifespan and is passionate about creating a safe space and helping her clients to recognise their strengths and navigate life’s complexities. In particular, she has experience working with and values every opportunity to support clients on the autism spectrum and with other neurodevelopmental conditions with anxiety, executive functioning and interpersonal difficulties. She appreciates that every individual is an expert in their own life, and strives to collaborate with her clients to provide tailored, evidence-based interventions. She integrates the following therapeutic approaches into her sessions: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Schema Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. At Diverse Minds, Jennifer enjoys her work in providing assessments and early psychological support for our younger generations, so they have the best chance to lead safe, healthy and meaningful lives.

 

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Madeleine Makinson

BScience (Psychology) (Hons), M.ClinPsych, MAPS

Clinical Psychologist

Madeleine is a Clinical Psychologist with a Bachelor of Science (Psychology) with first class honours from the Australian National University and a Master of Clinical Psychology from Macquarie University.

Before beginning her clinical training, Madeleine worked as a disability support worker at a social enterprise, where she supported individuals with disabilities in developing employment, social, and self-advocacy skills.

Throughout her training, Madeleine completed placements at the Macquarie University Psychology Clinic, Diverse Minds Psychology Clinic, and the Concord Centre for Mental Health, where she worked within an inpatient unit. She also worked in research at the Centre for Emotional Health, conducting diagnostic assessments of anxiety disorders in children aged 7 to 12.

She has experience working with individuals across the lifespan and is committed to providing evidence-based, individualised care. Her therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).

Madeleine has a particular interest in working with children, adolescents, and young adults, especially in the areas of Autism, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and intellectual disability. At Diverse Minds, she takes a collaborative, creative, and compassionate approach, aiming to empower clients to make meaningful and lasting change in their lives.

 

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Rivqa Rafael

MClinPsych, BPsychSc, BPsych (Hons), MAPS

Registered Psychologist/Clinical Psychology Registrar

Rivqa is a neurodivergent psychologist who completed her Master of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), and her undergraduate psychology studies at the University of New England, where she earned first-class honours. During her training, she completed placements at the UTS Psychology Clinic, the Albion Centre and Diverse Minds Psychology Clinic. Rivqa has supported with clients with issues relating to ADHD, autism, intellectual disability, gender and sexual identities, health psychology, and mental health challenges including depression, anxiety and bipolar moods. Her current PhD research, also at UTS, focuses on strengths-based support for adults with ADHD.

In individual and group therapy, Rivqa strives to provide neuroaffirming, person-centred and evidence-based support to adolescents and adults, while recognising that each client’s context, goals, strengths and challenges are unique. Additionally, she aims to provide trauma-informed care that accounts for the effects of sensory, interpersonal, systemic and other complex traumas. She is trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Schema Therapy, and integrates these modalities into sessions based on client needs and preferences. She is also a trained Tuning into Teens facilitator, and has experience running the PEERS program.

 

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Lucas Knight

BPsychSc (Hons)

Registered Psychologist

Lucas holds a Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours) from the University of New South Wales and completed his Master of Professional Psychology through the Department of Education’s School Psychology Scholarship Program at the University of Wollongong.

Lucas has experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults with a range of developmental and mental health concerns, including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety disorders, and depression. Previously working as a school psychologist, he collaborated closely with clients, their families, and school staff to develop tailored strategies that support wellbeing and personal growth. He now brings this collaborative approach to his private practice work with clients across the lifespan.

Lucas draws from his training in evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing. He is passionate about helping clients of all ages gain insight, build resilience, and feel empowered within their environments.

Known for his warm, reflective, and client-centred style, Lucas brings creativity, connection, and curiosity to his therapeutic relationships, aiming to foster a supportive and collaborative space for clients and their families.

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Luke Ferrantino

MClinPsych, BPsychSc (Hons)

Registered Psychologist/Clinical Psychology Registrar

Luke (he/him) is a psychologist with a Bachelor of Psychological Science with first class honours from Deakin University and a Master of Clinical Psychology from the University of Technology Sydney. Throughout his training, Luke has completed placements across diverse clinical settings, including the UTS Psychology Clinic, Diverse Minds Psychology Clinic, and headspace.

Luke creates a warm, collaborative environment where clients can explore their strengths and challenges. His approach is evidence-based, flexible, and tailored to each person’s unique needs and goals. Luke’s therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.

In his clinical work, Luke has a particular interest in working with anxiety and mood disorders and providing affirming, inclusive support for LGBTQ+ individuals. Luke approaches therapy with genuine curiosity and compassion, creating a safe space where clients feel truly heard and empowered to work toward meaningful change.

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Tiahna Ruane

MClinPsych, BA (Psychology) (Hons)

Registered Psychologist/Clinical Psychology Registrar

Tiahna (she/her) is a psychologist with a Master of Clinical Psychology from the University of Technology Sydney and a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) with honours from the University of Western Australia. Throughout her training, Tiahna completed clinical placements across private and public sectors at the UTS Psychology Clinic, Diverse Minds Psychology Clinic, and the Emotional Health Clinic and Research Unit at Cumberland Hospital. Before commencing her clinical training, Tiahna worked as a behaviour practitioner supporting young NDIS participants and their families.

Tiahna offers person-centred, evidence-based psychological interventions and is known for her warm and thoughtful approach. She emphasises the creation of a safe therapeutic environment and works alongside clients to understand their lived experiences, strengths, challenges, preferences and goals, ensuring care is responsive to the unique needs of each client. Tiahna has a particular interest in working with adolescents and young people who may be experiencing challenges related to ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, gender and sexual diversity, perfectionism, depression, and anxiety disorders.

Tiahna is trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Schema Therapy, and integrates these modalities based on client’s individual needs and preferences.

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Lauren Cottilli

BPsych (Hons)

Provisional Psychologist

Lauren is a Provisional Psychologist who completed a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at Western Sydney University and is currently completing her Master of Clinical Psychology at Macquarie University.

Before beginning her clinical training, Lauren worked as a Behaviour Therapist at a paediatric disability service delivering evidence-based interventions. In this role, she provided behavioural support to children, adolescents, and their families across home, school, and community settings.

Throughout her training, Lauren has completed placements at the Macquarie University Psychology Clinic and Diverse Minds Psychology Clinic, and is currently undertaking her final placement at Gordon Private Hospital. Across these roles, she has supported children, adolescents, and adults presenting with anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, and intellectual disability.
Lauren draws from evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), tailoring her work to suit each client’s developmental stage and individual needs. She has a particular interest in working with children and early adolescents. Known for her warm, curious, and enthusiastic approach, Lauren prioritises building strong therapeutic relationships where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their growth. In her work with children, she integrates play-based and creative strategies to foster engagement and meaningful change.

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Jordan Sbrugnera

GradDip Psych, BPsych (Hons)

Provisional Psychologist

Jordan is currently completing a Master of Clinical Psychology at Macquarie University, having previously completed a Graduate Diploma in Psychology at Monash University and a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at the University of New England with First Class Honours. During his clinical training, Jordan has completed placements at the Macquarie University Psychology Clinic, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in the Cardiology Department, and is completing his final placement at Diverse Minds Psychology Clinic.
During his clinical training, Jordan has gained experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults with a range of emotional, social and behavioural difficulties including anxiety, depression, panic, grief, and PTSD. In particular, he enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults, using neuro-affirming and evidence-based interventions drawn from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). Jordan brings a warm and approachable style to his work and is committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where his clients feel understood, respected, and empowered to thrive.

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Yasmina Backhouse

GradDip Psych (Advanced), BPsych

Provisional Psychologist

Yasmina Bazzi Backhouse is a provisional psychologist with extensive experience across community mental health, inpatient services, and youth-focused settings. She completed her Bachelor of Psychology at Macquarie University and completed her Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced) at Monash University in Melbourne. She is passionate about working with children, young people, and their families, particularly within neurodivergent communities, and practices from a neuro-affirming perspective. Her work is grounded in trauma-informed CBT and ACT, supporting clients to build insight, develop skills, and work toward goals that feel meaningful and achievable.
Yasmina views therapy as a shared journey shaped by safety, trust, and collaboration. She aims to create a therapeutic space that feels engaging and supportive, where clients can move at their own pace and feel empowered in the process. She has experience conducting combined Autism, ADHD, and cognitive assessments across the lifespan and completed a six-month regional placement at the University of New England. Her clinical work has taken place within multidisciplinary teams across both community mental health and inpatient environments, working alongside psychiatrists, occupational therapists, nurses, social workers, and peer workers to deliver holistic, person-centered care.
Her broader professional background includes peer mental health roles, youth advocacy, and supported accommodation services, which strongly inform her recovery-oriented approach and commitment to working collaboratively with families and wider support systems. Outside of clinical work, Yasmina enjoys powerlifting and baking, interests that reflect her belief that meaningful change is built through patience, consistency, and balance. She is currently completing her Master of Clinical Psychology and undertaking her second placement at the Diverse Minds Clinic.

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Julie Sipina

Clinic Manager

Julie is a busy mother of three who is very passionate about the health industry, having  owned and operated her own Medical Supplies business for many years where she refined her skills for health administration. She is well travelled and worked in Europe and Asia in Corporate and Executive Assistant roles for a number of years.

Her interests revolve around her family and she enjoys meditation, pilates, travel and entertaining with friends.

Julie is a warm, calm and understanding  person, who is always willing to listen and help with any challenges that may arise either with clients or personnel within the clinic. Julie looks forward to welcoming you at the Clinic and assisting you with any questions you might have.

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Rebecca Ross

Personal Assistant

Rebecca is an energetic mother of 3 active boys who enjoys being engaged and busy. Having studied and practised law for many years, Rebecca has embraced a change that allows her to work within a field that gives individuals and families access to services that can make a real difference to their lives. While her 3 boys keep her very busy with various weekend sporting activities, in her spare time she enjoys exploring the great outdoors and engaging with friends. Rebecca is always ready and willing to listen.

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Kate Sinha

Receptionist/Personal Assistant

Kate is an active mother of two great boys who enjoys leading a balanced life.  She enjoyed a long career in advertising working within Australia and England before taking a hiatus to raise her boys.  She has welcomed the opportunity of returning to the workforce and into an industry that cares about providing the best support for individuals and families.  Kate has a keen interest in gardening and long nature walks with her high spirited and affectionate Labrador, Rocket.

Kate is here to make your visit to the clinic a helpful and pleasurable experience.

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Lila Shrubb

Receptionist

Lila is currently a third year Macquarie University student studying a double degree in Psychology and Education. Lila thoroughly enjoys developing her understanding in learning theory as she completes professional experience in NSW primary schools. Upon graduating from Newtown High School of the Performing Arts as a dance major, Lila started working in Before and After School care with experience as an educator and assistant coordinator. Lila developed a deep passion for working with children and is aspiring to work as a Psychologist in a forensic or developmental field. Other than her studies, Lila spends any free time she has with her family and friends, enjoying ocean swims and board games.

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