Through evidence-based practices and collaborative care, Empowering Young Minds Psychology supports young people and their families to develop the skills and understanding needed to navigate challenges and achieve meaningful growth. Each of our psychologists brings their own unique skills, expertise and lived experience, yet all share a foundation built on acceptance, compassion, respect, and empathy. We aim to empower young minds by supporting young people and their families to embrace their unique brains and strengths while building awareness, understanding, and confidence to navigate difficult situations, emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. Through empathy and strong, meaningful relationships, we help our clients work towards their therapeutic goals to reach their fullest potential. Our approach is kind, client-centred, neuro-affirming, and grounded in evidence-based methods. We celebrate individuality, honour each person’s unique journey, and are here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

Natasha Stoikos is a registered Educational and Developmental Psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and a full member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), following completion of a Masters of Educational and Developmental Psychology degree at the University of Melbourne. Natasha also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminology, and a Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours).
Being trained in Educational and Developmental Psychology means that Natasha has undergone specialised postgraduate training to support children, adolescents, their families and schools with a range of needs, including neuro-diverse populations, working via a neuro-affirming strengths-based approach. Natasha has an advanced set of skills in the assessment of learning and developmental conditions, as well as expertise in evidence-based therapies and interventions that best support young people.
Natasha has experience working in a range of educational settings, including working in government and catholic primary schools and secondary schools, as well as experience working in private practice. She has experience working with a diverse range of clients, including supporting children and adolescents with a range of cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioural needs. Natasha also has experience in providing assessment and intervention to neurodiverse populations, including Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Intellectual Disability and Specific Learning Disorders (e.g. Dyslexia). Natasha is trained to administer the Autism Spectrum Diagnostic Schedule- 2nd Edition (ADOS-2).
Natasha is also a trained facilitator of the Tuning into Teens Program and Dr Ross Greene's Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS) model.

Seda Balikel is a registered Psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Agency (AHPRA) and a full member of the Australian Association of Psychologists (AAPi). She holds a Bachelor of Psychological Studies from Victoria University and a Bachelor of Psychological Sciences (Honours) from the Institute for Social Neuroscience, complemented by a comprehensive 2-year internship in psychological practice.
Seda has extensive experience in various domains, including educational psychology, vocational psychology, occupational rehabilitation, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), and private practice. She has successfully supported neuro-diverse and neuro-typical children, adolescents, and adults in enhancing their quality of life and improving their overall well-being. Seda is dedicated to creating a warm and secure environment for her clients, aiding them in navigating mental health challenges.
Proficient in cognitive assessments, Seda is skilled in administering both the WISC-V and WAIS-IV. She employs a versatile therapeutic toolkit that includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, ensuring tailored and effective treatment for her clients.

Stephanie is a Registered Psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). She holds Bachelor of Health Science (Psychology), a Graduate Diploma of Psychology, and a Master of Professional Psychology from Monash University.
Stephanie is a registered psychologist who works with children, adolescents and young adults. She has experience across private practice and community settings, supporting young people experiencing anxiety, low mood, emotional regulation difficulties, school-related stress, and adjustment challenges.
Stephanie has a strong interest in working with autistic and ADHD young people, particularly where stress or overwhelm may be shaped by environments that do not always fit their needs. Stephanie works from a neuro-affirming framework, aiming to create a space that feels respectful, supportive, and manageable.
Stephanie draws on CBT, ACT, DBT, and play-based approaches to support self-understanding and develop practical strategies and supports that work in everyday life. She values collaboration with families, schools, and other professionals to promote shared understanding and consistency across settings.

Alana is a Registered Psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). She holds a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from Swinburne University of Technology and a Master of Professional Psychology from Australian Catholic University.
Alana has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in private practice, providing both therapeutic support and comprehensive psychological assessments. She has experience conducting cognitive and neurodevelopmental assessments, including assessments for ADHD and Autism, and supporting individuals with a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and developmental needs. Alana is also a trained facilitator of the Tuning in to Kids program, supporting parents to strengthen their connection with their children and build emotional competence.
Alana adopts a warm, client-centred and collaborative approach, recognising each individual as the expert in their own experience. She is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment tailored to each person’s goals. Alana primarily draws on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and integrates strategies from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), play-based approaches, and mindfulness to support meaningful, practical, and lasting change
EMPOWERING YOUNG MINDS PSYCHOLOGY
address: 80-82 Keilor Road, Essendon VIC 3041
PHONE: 0493 584 006 | FAX: 03 8679 4466 | email: admin@empoweringyoungminds.com.au
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Our psychologists currently have appointment availability for therapy and assessments. If you’re looking for support for your child, we’re here to help.