Is academic testing right for your child?

Mental Health Leaders in Child and Teen Psychological Assessments
If you child or teenager requires a Psychological Assessment, we are here to cater for a variety of challenges they may be facing. Our priority is accommodating you and your child’s specific circumstances. We pride ourselves on being experts in leading you through the testing journey, providing a calm and warm environment.
Our testing process is comprehensive to ensure you have a clear pathway forward for your child.
Our experienced therapists address the barriers that may be hindering your child in reaching their full potential. We believe in working together with you and your child as well as other professionals to overcome these obstacles.
Why would you need to consider Child and Teen Psychological Assessments for your child?
- To identify strengths and weaknesses to guide learning and decision making
- To measure ability levels in a range of areas
- To obtain detailed results and recommendations to support education and employment
- To obtain recommendations to support applications for funding with school, Centrelink or the NDIS
We have 4 Categories of Child & Teen Psychological Assessments available
The Comprehensive Academic Assessment includes:
– A one hour initial assessment to gather background information (if under 14 years, the information will be provided by a parent/carer only).
– A two hour cognitive assessment of general intelligence (WISC – V or WAIS – 16+yrs).
– A two hour academic achievement test (WIAT–III).
– A two hour neurological assessment of neuropsychological development (NEPSY-II)
– A 15 minute questionnaire assessing behaviour and emotional state completed by the individual, parent/carer and educational representative as appropriate.
– Collation of results and comprehensive written report outlining results and recommendations (5 hours).
– A one hour comprehensive report feedback session 4 weeks post testing, to discuss the outcomes.
– Assessment Total Time Frame: 12 Hours
– ADHD (recommended <18yrs, have full comprehensive if querying ADHD)
– PTSD
– Drug Dependence
– Bipolar Disorder
– Body Dysmorphic Disorder
– Anxiety Disorder
– Major Depression Disorder and many other presenting issues
The Diagnostic Assessment Includes:
– A two hour initial assessment to gather background information (if under 14 years, the information will be provided by a parent/carer only).
– Screening questionnaires assessing a range of related symptoms and emotional states completed by the individual and/or parent/carer as appropriate.
– A comprehensive written report outlining diagnoses and recommendations (2 hours).
– A one hour comprehensive report feedback session 4 weeks post testing, to discuss the outcomes.
– Assessment Total Time Frame: 5 Hours (including report preparation)
The Intelligence Assessment Includes:
– A one hour initial assessment to gather background information (if under 14 years, the information will be provided by a parent/carer only).
– A two hour cognitive assessment of general intelligence (WISC – V or WAIS – 16+).
– A 15 minute questionnaire assessing behaviour, adaptive functioning (e.g. self help skills) and emotional state completed by the individual, parent/carer and educational representative as required.
– Additional screening assessments as required.
– Collation of results and comprehensive written report outlining results and recommendations (3 hours).
– A one hour comprehensive report feedback session 4 weeks post testing, to discuss the outcomes.
Assessment Total Time Frame: 7 Hours (including report preparation)
with suspected developmental delay, neurodevelopmental or a learning disorder
to make sure they reach their full potential
part of your school readiness assessment – to determine options for school
A Developmental Assessment includes:
– A one hour initial assessment to gather background information (if under 14 years, the information will be provided by a parent/carer only).
– 2 x two hour assessment sessions with both the parent/carer and the child using GRIFFITHS III & VINELAND III.
– CARS observational assessment (if required)
– A questionnaire will be sent to the parents/carer and school teacher, to complete and gather information on the individuals behaviour and emotions.
– Collation of results and comprehensive written report outlining results and recommendations (5 hours).
– A one hour comprehensive report feedback session 5 weeks post testing, to discuss the outcomes.
– Assessment Total Time Frame: 11 – 13 Hours (including report preparation)
What can I expect from the Child and Teen Psychological Assessments process at Creating Change?

- Detailed feedback and recommendations from professionally registered and provisionally registered Psychologists
- A comprehensive report including diagnosis to assist in the application of funding for support, programs or payments
- Clarifying what you or your child needs
- Identify and enhance strengths
- Change in capacity following a traumatic brain injury or brain surgery
- Targeted interventions and behaviour management plans for teachers, teachers aids and caregivers including routines, homework plans and discipline approaches
- Direction on the consultation and additional services required such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy etc.
Our team create a calm and safe environment, ensuring you have a comfortable experience with us.
We safeguard that you will leave Creating Change well informed and feeling confident of your future pathway.
Our Child & Teen Testing Therapists

Paris Gibson
Psychologist Bella Vista, Sydney
MProfPsych, GradDipPsychAd, BArts (Psych), BHumSc (Human Mov), MAPS
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Paris Gibson
Psychologist Bella Vista, Sydney
MProfPsych, GradDipPsychAd, BArts (Psych), BHumSc (Human Mov), MAPS
KNOW PARIS
Paris Gibson is a dedicated Psychologist committed to engaging with adults, adolescents, children and their parents, educating them on emotional management techniques to develop healthy coping strategies. Understanding and personable, her approachable nature provides a safe atmosphere for you to explore your barriers and needs. Bringing humour, focus and empowerment to what can be overwhelming issues, Paris devotes herself to you, your story, and your needs. She really takes the time to work through your challenges, focusing on outcomes and goals that are personalised to your situation.
Growing up locally in the area, for Paris, mental health has always stood out as one of the most important parts of a healthy life, and an area that too many people don’t feel fulfilled. Through her own experiences, Paris valued the importance of having someone understand you, and give you the tools you need to manage difficult times. This, along with her interest to explore people and relationships, is what led Paris to the world of Psychology. She has an endless fascination for the mind, and the affect our thoughts and behaviours can have over every part of our life.
Paris’ Approach
Paris centres her therapy sessions around your goals, providing the guidance and support you need to develop a sustainable, healthier mind. Through her planning approach, Paris is always equipped to make the most of your time together. Her focus is always a collaborative one, and she has a curiosity for learning what is behind your challenges and feelings, and how together you can work towards overcoming them, setting goals for your future.
Paris is inquisitive to find out what your experiences mean to you, taking a client-centred and individualised approach. She evokes openness, making no assumptions, and has a way of ensuring you feel safe and not alone in your struggles.
Her level of expertise is evident in the broad range of presentations she treats: adolescent challenges, parenting, generalised anxiety, depression, social anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, stress management, emotional regulation, OCD, family and interpersonal issues.
As an experienced Psychologist at Creating Change, Paris combines a Master of Professional Psychology, Graduate Diploma of Psychology Advanced, Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) and Bachelor of Human Sciences (Human Movement) degrees, with training in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Experience
Paris is trained, skilled and equiped to treat Neurodevelopmental disorders (ASD, ADHD, learning, intellectual, social, communication, tics, stuttering), Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (Panic, Social, GAD, Mutism, Separation), Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders (Body Dysmorphia, Hoarding, Hair-pulling, Skin Picking), Trauma and Related Disorders (PTSD, Grief, Adjustment, Reactive attachment), Dissociative Disorders, Somatic Symptoms & Illness Anxiety Disorder, Feeding and Eating Disorders, Elimination Disorders, Sleep-Wake Disorders, Sexual Dysfunctions, Gender Dysphoria, Disruptive, Impulse-Control, and Conduct Disorders, Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders (gambling, alcohol, cannabis, & other drugs), Neurocognitive Disorders (Dementia, Traumatic Brain Injury) and Personality Disorders.
Known For
Paris’ accomplishments include the completion of her thesis which researched the public’s perceived usefulness and happiness of service dogs, compared to pet dogs. This fascinating study explored the public’s opinions of working dogs, which did raise some concerns over them working excessively. The results found that service dogs actually have happier and more useful lives, than pet dogs. Her valued research given to Guide Dogs Australia, enabling them to inform their practices and education to the general public.
Paris is also an integral part of the Creating Change Clinical Leadership Team.
Passion
Paris has a real passion for helping the local community, and particularly likes working with adolescents and young people, setting them up with the tools to cope with life’s challenges. She encourages young people to be the best version of themselves, now and into their future, and focuses on building their confidence.
On a Personal Level
Paris loves being in the kitchen – whether it’s baking, cooking, trying new recipes, or eating. She also enjoys travelling and seeing new places, having new experiences, and meeting new people.
Paris’ Appointments
Paris is a full time therapist and devoted to our practice. She is available for appointments on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays.
Educational Articles/Videos by Paris
Believe in yourself. You are braver than you think, more talented than you know, and capable of more than you imagine
Roy Bennett

Paulus Hegeman
Psychologist Bella Vista, Sydney
MClinPsych, BPsych (Hons), MAPS, ACPA
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Paulus Hegeman
Psychologist Bella Vista, Sydney
MClinPsych, BPsych (Hons), MAPS, ACPA
KNOW PAUL
Paul is a warm, approachable psychologist who is committed to creating a safe, relaxed space where clients feel comfortable to speak openly and be themselves. He works collaboratively with people to make sense of difficult experiences, develop a deeper understanding of themselves, and navigate challenges in a way that supports meaningful, lasting change.
While able to treat clients of all ages and varying presentations, Paul has a particular interest in behaviour change and addictions. He helps clients identify patterns that may be maintaining their difficulties, while building practical, realistic strategies to support positive change. He works with clients with anxiety, depression, stress management and neurodiversity.
Before training as a psychologist, Paul spent many years working as a chef, where he led kitchen teams and mentored staff. This background has shaped his grounded, down-to-earth style and strong interpersonal skills, which he brings into his therapeutic work.
Paul’s Approach
Paul takes a collaborative, person-centred approach to therapy, recognising that each individual is the expert in their own life. He works alongside clients to build on their existing strengths while developing practical, effective ways to manage challenges.
His work is grounded in evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Paul tailors each session to the individual, ensuring that therapy aligns with their unique needs, values, and goals.
Paul’s Experience
Paul holds a Master of Clinical Psychology and is a registered psychologist with AHPRA. He has experience supporting clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, behavioural challenges, addictions, and life stress. He has also worked with people experiencing acute emotional distress during times of crisis.
Having changed careers later in life, Paul values personal growth and believes it is never too late to take a new path.
Paul is trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), behavioural and functional assessment frameworks, trauma-informed practice, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Passion
Paul is passionate about helping people feel understood, supported, and capable of creating meaningful change. He enjoys working alongside clients as they build confidence, develop practical coping skills, and move toward their goals.
On a Personal Level
Originally from the Netherlands, Paul is fluent in English and Dutch.
Outside of work, Paul enjoys spending time with family and friends, staying active, riding motorcycles, and travelling.
Paul’s Appointments
Paul is available at Bella Vista or via Telehealth on Wednesday and Thursdays, with after hours availability on Wednesday evening.

Jessica Chapman
Psychologist (Provisional) Bella Vista, Sydney
BPsychSc (Hons), BCouns, MProfPsych, AssocMAPS
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Jessica Chapman
Psychologist (Provisional) Bella Vista, Sydney
BPsychSc (Hons), BCouns, MProfPsych, AssocMAPS
KNOW JESSICA
Jessica is a thoughtful, genuine Psychologist who brings a gentle, reflective presence to her work. She holds space for people navigating life’s hardest moments—whether it’s grief, anxiety, pain, or unexpected change—with warmth and just the right touch of humour. Clients often describe her as easy to open up to, with a style that is calm, grounding, and deeply respectful.
Born in New Zealand and raised between Pakistan and Sydney, Jessica grew up immersed in different cultures. This gave her a natural curiosity about how culture, conditioning, and unspoken expectations shape how we see ourselves—and how we live. These early insights are part of what led her to psychology: a desire to help people explore their inner world, challenge unhelpful patterns, and move towards greater clarity and emotional freedom.
Jessica’s Approach
Jessica has experience supporting adults across a range of challenges and life transitions. Her sessions are client-centred and collaborative, grounded in the belief that therapy is a meeting of two experts: the client, who knows themselves best, and the psychologist, who brings insight and guidance through the therapeutic process.
Jessica’s role is to walk alongside her clients, to help them understand their patterns, reconnect with their values, and develop meaningful pathways forward. She draws on evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based approaches, schema therapy and Trauma focused CBT integrating these in a way that’s responsive to the individual.
Experience
Jessica is trained, skilled and equiped to treat Neurodevelopmental disorders (ASD, ADHD, learning, intellectual, social, communication, tics, stuttering), Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (Panic, Social, GAD, Mutism, Separation), Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders (Body Dysmorphia, Hoarding, Hair-pulling, Skin Picking), Trauma and Related Disorders (PTSD, Grief, Adjustment, Reactive attachment), Dissociative Disorders, Somatic Symptoms & Illness Anxiety Disorder, Feeding and Eating Disorders, Elimination Disorders, Sleep-Wake Disorders, Sexual Dysfunctions, Gender Dysphoria, Disruptive, Impulse-Control, and Conduct Disorders, Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders (gambling, alcohol, cannabis, & other drugs), Neurocognitive Disorders (Dementia, Traumatic Brain Injury) and Personality Disorders.
Known For
Jessica is known for her reflective, calm energy and her ability to sit gently with people in their pain. She brings a depth of thoughtfulness that invites self-awareness and growth, helping clients to feel safe, understood, and empowered to change. Her culturally-informed lens and respect for the complexity of human experience make her especially attuned to the subtle influences shaping a person’s mental health journey.
Passion
Jessica is particularly passionate about working with people during times of transition—whether that’s the death of a loved one, changes in health, identity, or life direction. She is drawn to supporting people experiencing grief and loss, as well as those living with chronic pain or anxiety. Her aim is to help clients not just manage their symptoms, but to move through suffering in a way that fosters self-compassion and insight.
On a Personal Level
When she’s not in session, Jessica loves walking her dog, watching her cat’s quirky antics, knitting, diving into a good film or book, and embracing the simple comforts of everyday life. She believes in the power of quiet rituals to nurture wellbeing and brings this same steady, human approach into her therapy work..
Jessica’s Appointments
Jessica is a full time therapist and devoted to our practice. She is available for appointments on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays.
“Our life always expresses the result of our dominant thoughts” – Soren Kierkegaard

Bethany Scott
Psychologist Bella Vista, Sydney
BAPsych (Hons) GradDipPsych(Adv) MProfPsych MAPS
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Bethany Scott
Psychologist Bella Vista, Sydney
BAPsych (Hons) GradDipPsych(Adv) MProfPsych MAPS
KNOW BETHANY
Bethany is an insightful psychologist known for her approachable, compassionate, and understanding demeanour. Born in England and raised in the Hills District from a young age, she has always been deeply connected to the community she serves, bringing a unique and personal understanding of the dynamics affecting local families and individuals. With a genuine passion for helping clients uncover the why behind their thoughts and behaviours, Bethany is dedicated to guiding each person through their unique challenges. Her open-minded and accepting approach creates a safe, supportive space where clients feel comfortable discussing all aspects of their lives.
Bethany’s philosophy centres on the power of collaboration in therapy. She believes everyone benefits from having a trusted person to talk to—someone who listens without judgment and helps identify and move away from unhelpful patterns. Her goal is not simply to provide support, but to work alongside her clients, empowering them to achieve lasting change and reach their full potential.
Bethany’s Approach
With Bethany, therapy is a true partnership. She is committed to helping you gain insight, adapt your approach, and feel equipped to achieve your goals while cultivating a more optimistic outlook on life. Whether you are navigating stress, anxiety, or seeking to enhance your overall wellbeing, Bethany provides the guidance and support you need to thrive.
Bethany’s tagline, “Empowering you to redefine your story,” captures her approach perfectly. She is here to support you in reshaping your narrative toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. Whether you are working through personal trauma, grief, or the challenges of everyday stress, Bethany offers a safe, supportive, and insightful space for healing and growth.
Drawing on her extensive training and natural warmth, Bethany helps clients rebuild trust and embrace new life experiences. Her sessions are infused with calm and gentle humour, making even serious or distressing topics more approachable. This thoughtful balance of empathy and practicality allows clients to feel confident in their independence and aligned with their values, goals, and potential.
Bethany’s professional journey in psychology reflects a strong commitment to ongoing learning and the delivery of high-quality care. Her therapeutic philosophy recognises the importance of understanding the influence of past experiences while actively building a stable and meaningful future.
She utilises a range of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Schema Therapy, and Trauma-Focused CBT.
Experience
Bethany is trained, skilled and equiped to treat Neurodevelopmental disorders (ASD, ADHD, learning, intellectual, social, communication, tics, stuttering), Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (Panic, Social, GAD, Mutism, Separation), Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders (Body Dysmorphia, Hoarding, Hair-pulling, Skin Picking), Trauma and Related Disorders (PTSD, Grief, Adjustment, Reactive attachment), Dissociative Disorders, Somatic Symptoms & Illness Anxiety Disorder, Feeding and Eating Disorders, Elimination Disorders, Sleep-Wake Disorders, Sexual Dysfunctions, Gender Dysphoria, Disruptive, Impulse-Control, and Conduct Disorders, Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders (gambling, alcohol, cannabis, & other drugs), Neurocognitive Disorders (Dementia, Traumatic Brain Injury) and Personality Disorders.
Passion
Bethany’s dedication to her clients shines through in her compassionate approach to addressing a spectrum of emotional and psychological challenges. Her clinical expertise spans a diverse range of areas including grief and loss, stress management, trauma, adjustment to change, depression, and anxiety. With a profound commitment to helping individuals navigate the complexities of these issues, Bethany provides tailored support that fosters healing and personal growth.
On a Personal Level
Outside the therapy room, Bethany is an avid reader, with an insatiable appetite for all types of books and genres, finding both solace and excitement in the pages of a good story. Her love for cooking and baking sees her experimenting with new recipes, turning her kitchen into a creative playground that not only nourishes the body but also the soul. Travel is another of Bethany’s passions, as she loves to explore new places and immerse herself in different cultures, believing that every journey enriches her understanding of the world and herself. Bethany’s zest for life is evident in her love of laughter and adventure, traits that infuse her professional work with positivity and energy.
Bethany’s Appointments
Bethany is a devoted therapist at our practice, and is available for appointments on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
“It’s easy to say the right things – but words are meaningless without action” – Pip Williams
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