10 Reasons Why Your Family Doesn’t Need To Be Like Everybody Else’s.
I’ve always been that mum who doesn’t really blend in…
10 Reasons Why Your Family Doesn’t Need To Be Like Everybody Else’s. Read More »
ADHD & Relationships
I’ve always been that mum who doesn’t really blend in…
10 Reasons Why Your Family Doesn’t Need To Be Like Everybody Else’s. Read More »
Darren’s fee is $180 per sessional hour *No Medicare rebate available
Level 4 Cert. Understanding Suicide & Suicide Prevention & Substance Misuse
While I’m not often invited to ‘overshare’, when I do, it can bring up anxiety, mostly because I’ve learned that my openness is sometimes seen as eccentric or ‘too much’. That changes completely in the company of fellow neurodivergent people, where I’ve come to embrace my full, unmasked self. These experiences have shaped my belief that neurodivergence isn’t something to be hidden, but something to be honoured. When I do find myself masking now, it’s less about protection and more about pacing the radiance of neurodivergent brilliance for those who aren’t yet attuned to its full light…!
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Therapeutic coach | counsellor & Psychotherapist
Darren’s fee is $180 per sessional hour *No Medicare rebate available
Level 4 Cert. Understanding Suicide & Suicide Prevention & Substance Misuse
Darren has been a registered counsellor and psychotherapist since 2016. His professional path has been as diverse as his therapeutic approach, shaped by previous careers in construction, mining, and musical stage production in London’s West End. This rich and varied background informs Darren’s deeply empathetic and adaptable style as a psychotherapist and coach.
Trained in a broad spectrum of therapeutic modalities—including person-centred and psychoanalytic approaches, trauma-focused therapy, existential therapy, and ND affirming CBT—Darren tailors his work to meet each client’s unique needs and communication style. He brings particular expertise in supporting individuals at the intersection of trauma, neurodivergence, and personal growth.
With a long-standing interest in spirituality, his therapeutic ethos centres on empowerment, collaboration, and creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can process past trauma, navigate present challenges, and reframe limiting beliefs or emotional patterns.
Darren is passionate about helping neurodivergent individuals live authentically, with self-compassion and confidence. He actively invites and values client feedback as part of building a respectful therapeutic relationship. Above all, Darren believes that cultivating the courage for honest self-reflection opens the door to growth, healing, and lasting personal transformation.
Darren is a registered member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), and the Australasian ADHD Professionals Association (AADPA).
Darren has specific knowledge and interest in the areas of:
While I’m not often invited to ‘overshare’, when I do, it can bring up anxiety, mostly because I’ve learned that my openness is sometimes seen as eccentric or ‘too much’. That changes completely in the company of fellow neurodivergent people, where I’ve come to embrace my full, unmasked self. These experiences have shaped my belief that neurodivergence isn’t something to be hidden, but something to be honoured. When I do find myself masking now, it’s less about protection and more about pacing the radiance of neurodivergent brilliance for those who aren’t yet attuned to its full light…!
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Lesley’s fees start from $200+ gst per sessional hour.
Lesley is a university lecturer who has worked in Education and Educational leadership for 30 years. She completed her undergraduate degree in Education at Newcastle University in NSW. She then completed her Master of Education (Guidance & Counselling) from The University of Queensland.
Lesley is passionate about;
Lesley has practised as a counsellor for 8 years specialising in CBT and IFS modalities for children, adults and couples.
Lesley and her family live in remote WA. The beautiful countryside allows them to enjoy the great outdoors and explore. Lesley is passionate about well-being and works hard to create and maintain an effective work-life balance. In her spare time, she enjoys regular exercise, playing team sports and reading. Lesley was diagnosed with ADHD in her mid 40’s. The diagnosis highlighted the ineffective coping strategies she had developed in her life to manage the symptoms of undiagnosed ADHD. She then took the initiative to learn about the condition and identified helpful & healthy strategies for living in a complex world with this condition. Consequently, Lesley is now passionate about sharing her knowledge, skills and experiences with others to assist them with their neurodivergent journey.
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Jaime’s fees are from $175 per sessional hour.
Jaime is available for sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Jaime brings significant professional experience from her previous careers in law and disability case management.
Jaime chose to leave her role as a lawyer because, although she loved working with her clients, she hated having to literally wear “the mask” (a full face of makeup and power suit) to the office everyday, pretending that she was someone she wasn’t. In addition, some aspects of her work really challenged her personal values, and pushed her to reconsider her direction.
Jaime left law to move into the disability sector – case management, mental health and supporting clients living with complexity. She also volunteered at Lifeline, providing crisis support and counselling.
Finally having found her calling, she commenced postgraduate studies in psychology. Jaime realised during her final year of her psychology Master’s that there was a reason she had always felt a little different. Of course, it was because she was neurodivergent herself!
Jaime is an AuDHDer and has three neurodivergent sons. Jaime understands the stress and heartache of single-handedly supporting your child through meltdowns, communication differences, school avoidance and aggressive behaviours.
When Jaime learned about inattentive ADHD she immediately recognised herself and pursued both autism and ADHD assessment at the recommendation of a psychologist. She thought “I can’t be autistic, I am highly empathic!” (falling prey to the pervasive autistic stereotypes perpetuated in the media).
As it turns out, all those little quirks were in fact autistic traits, which she had masked all the way into her 40s. Those close to her know that she can be an over-sharer who can’t find her phone; has a tendency to repeat herself (which drives her partner up the wall); that she is constantly stimming; has to use energy to maintain eye contact; has sensitivities to noise and lights, and eats the same thing over and over again. Not to mention her formidable experience with the boom-and-bust cycle!
Bachelor of Laws/Commerce
Certificate IV in Breastfeeding Education (Counselling)
Graduate Certificate in Trade Marks Law & Practice
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice
Reb is currently studying a Master of Social Work (Qualifying) at the University of New England, with a strong interest in Mental Health Social Work. They bring existing qualifications and experience in counselling with a Certificate IV in Breastfeeding Education (Counselling). Reb also holds a Bachelor of Laws/Commerce and has worked across various fields in both the legal and mental health sectors.
They began at The Divergent Edge on a student placement, providing both group work and individual sessions, in addition to contributing behind the scenes support to the TDE team. Reb will continue supporting the processes and procedures that help our clinicians and our clients, and we hope to see more client facing work from Reb in the future.
Reb values a strengths based approach to client support, affirming people’s lived experiences and empowering them to be their authentic self. Reb is dedicated to neurodivergent affirming and trauma informed practices, believing every individual is the expert in their own lives.
Reb lives and works on the land of the Dharawal people.
Reb is still in the process of diagnosing their specific brand of neurospicy, but all signs point to a strong blend of ADHD and Autism as core components. They are enjoying finding the balance between hyperfocus deep dives into systems user manuals, and dopamine breaks to play the drums and hang the rest of their washing. Reb has had numerous “oh, is THAT who I am” awakenings throughout their life, and understands the joy, authenticity, grief, and anger that comes from looking forward to what can now be, and looking back to what could have been.
If you’re ever on a video call with Reb you’ll no doubt see a dinosaur or several in the background.
Paula has worked in administration and management for almost 20 years, in a range of business and environments large and small. Paula is currently studying practice management, and is also a qualified counsellor. Paula loves supporting others to realise their goals, and considers herself a quiet achiever.
Being the mum of two young boys keeps her life hectic but full of love and happiness amongst the chaos.
Kaje is on a mission to defy stereotypes and foster a sense of belonging within the neurodivergent community. Diagnosed as an adult with ADHD and Autism, Kaje has embarked on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance, and shed light on the experiences of others who have felt isolated or misunderstood. In her reception role, Kaje seeks to build positive relationships where clients feel safe and supported.
In her downtime you will find Kaje at the movies, reading a book or cuddling with her two kittens, Mr GooseTifer and the 3 legged (tripod) kitty Loki.
Lisa has been working in professional administration for over 4 years, balancing this with a busy family life with her husband, their 3 kids and a menagerie of fur babies.
Lisa loves the outdoors. I find peace and joy in nature, whether it be hiking, camping or simply taking a leisurely walk along the beach.
Therapeutic ADHD Coaching
Jonathan’s fees are $170.50 per sessional hour ($180 from Sept. 1 2025)
*No Medicare rebate available.
**Private health rebates available with the following funds: Bupa, CUA Health, Emergency Services Health, GMHBA, Phoenix Health, Police Health, St Lukes Health, Teachers Union Health, Westfund
Jonathan is available for sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Jonathan is a Registered Counsellor, Psychotherapist, and Supervisor who incorporates a psychoanalytic approach to his work. This assists to address his clients fixed core beliefs, and examines the role of negative self-talk as it influences both guilt and shame which may promote unhealthy behaviours. He has a particular passion helping people find a healthy balance to life through his holistic approach, exploring the connection between mind, body, spirit and building capacity for healthy relationships. He is interested in both the function of neuroplasticity and complementary therapies to address mental health concerns.
Jonathan has specific interests and knowledge in the areas of:
mental health and complex trauma in adolescents and adults
the impact of domestic family violence and family of origin
depression & anxiety
ADHD related stress management
building strategies for effective self-care
working with emotional awareness, regulation skills and RSD (rejection sensitive dysphoria)
building assertiveness skills & confidence
addictions
Jonathan is passionate about the integration of neurodivergent perspectives, together with accessible therapy and pragmatic coaching solutions to executive function challenges, to support his clients to be the best version of themselves.
Jonathan was diagnosed with combined type ADHD as an adult and (like many neurodivergent humans) highly values “feeling productive”, and channels this into the pursuit of knowledge building, while challenging his existing ideas. He cannot function through dreary admin or cleaning tasks without incessantly playing lofi hip hop or classical music in the background. He loves to read, but being time poor he enjoys podcasts and audiobooks while driving or walking instead.
Jonathan is a father to three children under the age of 10 (….please send help). He rates his wife as “the most supportive”, and finds himself constantly sharing all the things he learns with her at the most inconvenient times. Jonathan also has a talking parrot who you may meet during his sessions. They are working together on his parrot’s impulsive tendencies to interrupt conversations.
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Therapeutic ADHD coaching
Shristi’s fee is $170.50 per sessional hour ($180 from Sept. 1 2025)
*No Medicare rebate available
Shristi is available for sessions on Monday evenings and Thursdays.
Shristi is a neuro-affirming and empowering registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist, with expertise in mental health crisis support through her work at Lifeline. Shristi has an adaptable, calm, person centred approach which facilitates a quick development of therapeutic alliance. She supports her clients in creating their own narrative (or rewriting old ones) through a neurodivergent lens tailored to their brain type.
Shristi incorporates various compassion-focused techniques and strengths-based therapeutic approaches such as ACT & CFT, and offers practical and insightful strategies to guide clients on their own neurospicy quests. She works within a neurodiversity framework that encourages acceptance and regulation over assimilation and intervention, creating a therapeutic environment where compassion meets empowerment, and uniqueness is celebrated.
Drawing from her personal and professional experiences, she supports clients in uncovering their unique patterns of behaviour, emotions, and thoughts, empowering them to embrace their diversity and find their authentic voice through therapy.
With a deep understanding of the intersectionality between neurodiversity, feminist perspectives, and cultural identity, Shristi is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment for all.
Shristi has specific interests and knowledge in the areas of:
Shristi is a late identified AuDHDer. Her neurodivergent narrative began while pursuing her Master’s degree when her own experiences mirrored those she studied in her research on ‘the psychological well-being of women diagnosed with ADHD as adults’—a moment of irony that fuelled her passion for advocacy and inclusivity.
She takes pride in representing women of colour in the neurodivergent community and understands firsthand the importance of creating inclusive spaces where individuals like her can thrive. Shristi passionately advocates, educates, and navigates a neurotypical world not designed for her neurotype. Her aspiration is for a sensory-safe and neuro-inclusive world where all neurotypes can thrive, not just survive.
When she’s not unravelling the intricacies of the human psyche or guiding clients through their transformative quests, you’ll likely find her immersed in true crime documentaries, pondering over the complexities of the criminal mind—her Forensic Psychology days in the Netherlands fueling her fascination. And when she’s not caffeinating, she’s soaking in sunsets and seeking out sensory-friendly spots to recharge her soul.
Nicoles’s fees are $220 per sessional hour *Medicare rebate available $80.
Private health rebates available with some funds
Nicole is available for sessions Fridays, and afternoons only on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Nicole has been a Social Worker since 2009, and became accredited as a Mental Health Social Worker in 2018. Nicole provides a range of psychotherapy informed interventions and clinical assessments which have been adapted and enhanced to be neurodivergent affirming. Nicole incorporates CBT, DBT, Motivational interviewing and a range of other person centred approaches which values and considers each person in the context of their environment, experiences and relationships.
Nicole has specific interests and knowledge in the areas of:
Nicole was diagnosed with ADHD (Inattentive Type) as an adult, and is the parent of two excellent kids, one of whom has also been diagnosed with ADHD. Having worked with many neurodivergent people for over a decade before being diagnosed, Nicole loves to study the application of evidence-based psychotherapy and apply it to the neurodivergent context. Outside of work and parenting, she enjoys being too loud in cafes with friends (many of whom are also neurodivergent), volunteering for a local animal rescue and hyper-focusing on an alarmingly wide variety of arts and crafts.
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Emma’s fees start from $220 per sessional hour. ($235 from Sept. 1 2025)
*Rebates may be available for some services through private health funds.
Emma does not provide counselling services as a psychologist
Emma is a registered Organisational Psychologist and has extensive practice management and executive experience across private and government sectors, working with both individuals, families and leading teams. She has worked extensively in the community service sector. Emma has the following accreditations: RMT Core 100 Certification, SHL Personality and Ability Assessment (OPQ and Ability Assessments), Hogan Assessment Certification – HPI, HDS and the MVPI
Emma excels in creating a safe and confidential space to explore options and opportunities. Emma believes in seeking the evidence base for practice and also thrives on translating this into tangible, practical strategies. Emma’s approach is collaborative, values and strengths-driven, and engages her clients in the creation of meaningful goals. In addition, Emma is able to utilise her clinical and therapeutic experience to support issues such as stress, anxiety, and overwhelm that can impact all elements of life efficiency, engagement and the experience of success and mastery.
Emma has specific interests and knowledge in the areas of:
Emma is a strategic thinker and a dynamic and passionate coach with a commitment to learning and supporting individuals and organisations to reach their potential.
Emma was diagnosed with ADHD (Combined type) later in her life. She is the (mostly) joyful parent of 3 children. Emma is a dedicated learner and loves reading (ALMOST) anything. Emma’s hobbies and interests vary and seem to cycle through various iterations of enjoying cooking, gardening, knitting, drawing, painting, learning guitar, learning a language….an ongoing journey.
She finds that spending time in nature (not that she schedules this in often enough) is one thing that has been a consistent joy. Emma also uses a lot of parentheses which is an ADHD trait reflective of the need to share a sufficient level of additional tangential information about the relevant topic of discussion (!)
Lynsey’s fee is $220 per sessional hour. ($235 from Sept. 1 2025)
No Medicare rebate is available
Lynsey’s coaching approach is strengths based, solution focused and collaborative. Her focus is on asking questions, helping you identify what is working well and co-creating strategies for you to utilise in between sessions. She brings a strong background in evidence-based coaching and the coaching process, leadership experience and a broad background in career transition, training and development, operations, and human resources. Lynsey holds a Master’s of Science in Coaching Psychology, a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Psychology and ICF accredited coach training. She is also accredited in Strengths Coaching and Mental Toughness Development.
Lynsey helps her clients to work through their ADHD challenges and understand their strengths so that they can be at their personal and professional best. Her clients often include busy professionals, small business owners and executives who want to make positive, sustainable changes in their lives.
Lynsey has specific interests and knowledge in the areas of:
Her expertise combined with her positive, encouraging coaching style empowers clients to achieve their goals in a sustainable way. Engaging Lynsey as your coach can help you learn how to understand and use your strengths, develop your confidence and discover what you are capable of in your career, life or business.
Lynsey was diagnosed with ADHD in her 40’s, which helped validate her lifelong tendency to get bored easily, do things at the last minute, talk a lot and try to fit too much into a day! Lynsey spends her downtime collecting animals: she has horses, dogs, a few sheep and an alpaca; and lives in the NSW Southern Highlands with her partner. With a wanderlust that fuels her love of the open road, Lynsey loves travel and has plans to tick more places off the bucket list. Being on horseback is Lynsey’s happy place, as well as dancing to 90’s House music and being outside until the sun sets..
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Julie’s fees start from $200+ gst per sessional hour. No rebates available
Julie has a wealth of knowledge and experience, coupled with a vibrant and wise energy. She has had an academic career as a university lecturer in counselling; is a creative and adaptable trainer/ teacher, and a warm and supportive counsellor and coach. Julie is a certified Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) practitioner, however works from a person centred approach, drawing from a range of therapeutic modalities to meet the individual needs of the client or couple.
Julie has specific interests and knowledge in the areas of:
Julie believes that working for The Divergent Edge is a great way to support individuals and families, no matter where they are on their journey of neurodivergence: discovering both strengths and opportunities. She believes that Therapeutic ADHD Coaching provides
Julie is excited to be supporting the innovative work of The Divergent Edge.
Julie was diagnosed as an adult with ADHD (Combined type) and is a gifted (twice exceptional) adult. She loves, and has been challenged by, raising her five children. Julie is a passionate gardener, and enjoys getting away for the weekend camping. Her other love is a 1969 Red MGB, and she loves getting out and going for drives with the hood down, radio blaring with her cute dog in the passenger seat.
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Dani provides Therapeutic coaching for neurodivergent adults, a unique service model she has developed which combines psychotherapy with ADHD coaching strategies. This approach is tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each client. Dani’s approach suits clients seeking a longer term therapeutic relationship
Dani’s fee is $220 per sessional hour. ($235 from Sept. 1 2025)
*Please note no Medicare rebate available.
Dani is available for sessions Monday – Friday between 7.30am – 3pm.
Dani is the Founder of The Divergent Edge, which was launched in July 2021.
Dani has been a social worker since 2000 and has experience in diverse fields of practice including case management, counselling, training, supervision and mentoring, service delivery management, leadership, clinical social work and practice development.
Her therapeutic practice is intuitive and person centred, through facilitating the development of an attuned therapeutic space. This approach develops a safe and affirming core foundation on which to facilitate exploration and personal growth, and examine the relational understanding of self. Dani works holistically from the perspective that everything is connected, so therefore nothing is off limits.
Dani utilises a range of therapeutic modalities and frameworks in her work, including psychotherapeutic therapies, narrative therapy, ACT, systems and empowerment / feminist theory. This is used in conjunction with practical suggestions to help ‘get shit done’, with the goal of always retaining her (and your) sense of humour.
Dani has specific knowledge and interest in the areas of:
Dani was diagnosed with ADHD in her 40’s, and then a little later put together the pieces of her 2E identity. This information altered her perspective fundamentally on how she understood herself, her life, her children, and her purpose. She can spot an ADHDer across a crowded room (like a 6th sense) and also via text message (a largely unhelpful skill).
Dani is currently working on a plan to leave the house more so she doesn’t become socially isolated. She works full time in the business while parenting her three ND offspring. She most certainly is a guru at task management, but would rather like a PA. She’s put her next business idea on the backburner due to the unhelpful fact that there are only 24 hours in a day….and she instead is planning on embracing weekends in 2024.