Meet the team
Executive Team
Founder / Managing Director
Senior Psychologist
Melissa Duckmanton
Melissa is the founder and Managing Director at United Minds and has worked tirelessly to build the service to what it is today. Melissa is also an experienced registered psychologist at UMCS with training in Community Psychology and over 20 years experience in counselling and therapy.
Melissa's postgraduate research was on relationship quality in the transition to parenthood and the mediating impact of social support through social media. Working only with adults 18 years and older, Melissa has an interest in working in peri and postnatal care, neurodiversity, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, addiction, relationships and identity, and trauma. Melissa offers a range of psychological therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) and Trauma-informed therapy.
Outside of her work at United Minds, Melissa is a busy mum to 5 little humans.
Head of Assessment Division
Senior Clinical Psychologist
Board Approved supervisor
Jessica McLinden
Jessica is clinical psychologist and board approved supervisor who has been working at United Minds Community Services since 2018.
Jessica works primarily with children and adolescents and their families. Jessica has a particular interest in working with neurodivergent individuals and is trained in completing diagnostic assessments for autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties. She also has experience providing therapy for young people with a range of different mental health presentations. Jessica takes a holistic and neurodiversity-affirming approach to treatment and incorporates therapy modalities including CBT, play therapy, ACT, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, and parent-child interaction.
Outside of her work at United Minds Jess enjoys travelling, musical theatre, cooking, skiing, and playing soccer.
Head of Training & Development
Senior Clinical Psychologist
Board approved Supervisor
Shelley Massey
Shelley (she/her) is a clinical psychologist and board approved supervisor who has been working at United Minds Community Services since 2018.
 Shelley works with clients aged 3 and above. Shelley has a particular interest in working with neurodivergent people and those who are experiencing OCD or specific anxiety disorders.
She has experience working with a variety of presentations including depression, anxiety, learning difficulties, OCD, chronic pain, grief and loss, trauma, ASD and ADHD.Shelley likes to work collaboratively with the intend that the therapeutic work reflects each client’s individual goals. She aims to create a warm and respectful environment for all clients. Shelley incorporates a range of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy and Schema Therapy.
In her spare time Shelley enjoys baking sugary treats as well as going to see live music and theatre.
Head of Clinical Services
Senior Educational Developmental Psychologist
Board approved Supervisor
Priscilla Marietta
Priscilla (she/her) works with individuals aged 8 and above for both assessment and therapeutic counselling. She has experience and interest in working with a variety of presentations, including mood and anxiety disorders, complex trauma, learning difficulties, and neurodevelopmental conditions. She is trained in completing diagnostic assessments for autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties.
Priscilla aims to provide a warm and affirming therapeutic space where all identities are welcome. She tailors her treatment approach to the client's needs by drawing on a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).Priscilla speaks English and Bahasa Indonesia.
In her spare time, she enjoys reading novels, playing trivia, and going out for a nice meal.
Business Operations Manager
Allira George
Watch this space
Leadership Team
Team Leader - Yarrambat
Psychologist
Isabella Bedford-Dyer
Isabella is a registered psychologist and identifies as autistic. Isabella works with those from 6+ years old and has a particular interest in working with neurodivergent individuals.
Isabella focuses on creating a safe space for all humans, and utilises a client-centred, neuro-affirming and trauma informed approach to support and help individuals flourish. Isabella aims to have every neurodivergent individual feel safe and comfortable enough to drop masking and support the growth of a unique identity. Isabella is also trained in completing assessments for autism, ADHD and learning difficulties, and incorporates various strength based, therapeutic approaches such as CBT, ACT, play-based therapy, and polyvagal theory.
In her spare time Isabella enjoys reading, crocheting, cooking, and hanging out with her two ragdoll cats Daisy and Lulu.
Team Leader - Diamond Creek
Psychologist
Daniella Arena
Dani is a generally registered Psychologist with a passion for working with clients across the lifespan, including children, adolescents and adults with a range of presentations such as (but not limited to), mood and anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, behavioural difficulties, neurodevelopmental conditions, school refusal, and trauma-related disorders.
Dani is trained in completing diagnostic assessments for autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties and draws on a range of treatment modalities that cater to her clients needs and presenting problems such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Dani aims to engage with clients authentically and collaboratively, offering an empathetic, vibrant, and respectful therapeutic approach. She encourages self-awareness, self-understanding, and self-motivation and aims to ensure that the treatment modalities offered are responsive to the clients needs and goals.
Outside of work Dani enjoys spending time with her friends and family, reading and playing with her two adorable corgis.
Charity Coordinator
Tracey Russell
Pending
Support Team
Admin Officer
Tracey Russell
Admin Officer
Jessica Pope
Accounts Officer
Kerryn Patterson
Senior Psychologists
Senior Psychologist
Dr Adrian Russo
Adrian is a Clinical Neuropsychology Registrar who has been working at United Minds Community Services since 2021. Adrian has previously worked at La Trobe University where he taught into the Psychology program. He also completed a PhD investigating the role of serotonin in social behaviour, anxiety and sleep, and published scientific research in the field of psychology and neuroscience.
Adrian primarily conducts assessments with children, adolescents and adults. He has a particular interest in neurodevelopmental presentations and is extensively trained in conducting diagnostic assessments. Adrian’s goals are to provide clients with a comprehensive understanding of their cognition, and to help implement strategies that can address challenges that manifest at home, school and/or work. Adrian also offers psychological therapy practicing upon a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) framework.
In his spare time, Adrian enjoys following multiple sports and spending time with family and friends.
Senior Clinical Psychologist
Andrew Halim
Andrew is a Clinical Psychologist with experience in both the private and public sector, and has been with United Minds since 2020.
Andrew works 1-on-1 with clients aged 18 years and over, using a flexible approach, with a range of therapy styles to suit the individual’s needs, and encourages feedback and collaboration. Andrew believes you’re the expert of your life, and he can bring his psychology knowledge and expertise, to work together with you to help you achieve your goals, work through life challenges, and live a happier and more fulfilling life.
Andrew utilises various treatment approaches including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT).
Andrew’s area of practice includes (but not limited to): Anxiety, Depression, specific Anxiety Disorders and Phobias, OCD, Stress Management, Self-Esteem difficulties, Chronic Pain, Grief and Loss, Trauma and PTSD, Relationship Issues, and Life Transitions and Adjustments.
Outside of work Andrew enjoys doing woodwork, gardening, and walks in the park with his Labrador puppy.
Senior Psychologist
Dita Humphries
Dita is a registered psychologist with over 10 years’ experience in counselling. She works with adults using evidence-based therapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness and compassion-based interventions.
Areas of practice include: Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress Management, Life Transitions, Chronic Pain, Chronic Health Conditions. Dita has a particular interest in women’s health and supporting women during periods of change and adjustments, such as the perinatal and midlife periods.
Senior Psychologist
Kristin Rogers
Kristin is a registered psychologist and an associate member of the College of Educational and Developmental Psychologists (CEDP). Kristin enjoys supporting a range of individuals across the lifespan including children (aged 3 years and over), adolescents, adults, and older adults. Kristin has a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals and their supporters. Kristin’s varied experience in community settings (family violence, addiction, mental health, disability), private practice and school settings (primary and secondary) helps her further understand how an individual’s life experiences intersect and impact wellbeing.
Kristin also teaches psychology at a tertiary level and has previously worked in clinical research settings (autism research, mental health research, sleep research). She has published research related to children’s experience of family violence and has presented workshops to allied health professionals on topics such as ADHD and supporting young carers of individuals who have mental ill health. Kristin also conducts cognitive, educational, and diagnostic assessments. Kristin views assessment as an opportunity to help develop a framework to support an individual to understand their experiences and communicate their needs and strengths to others.
Kristin works from a strength-based perspective and her work is informed by a range of evidence-based techniques including (but not limited to) Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), CBT-E, Motivational interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
Kristin's passions outside of work include listening to music and connecting to animals.
Psychologists
Psychologist
Daniella Arena
Dani is a generally registered Psychologist with a passion for working with clients across the lifespan, including children, adolescents and adults with a range of presentations such as (but not limited to), mood and anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, behavioural difficulties, neurodevelopmental conditions, school refusal, and trauma-related disorders.
Dani is trained in completing diagnostic assessments for autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties and draws on a range of treatment modalities that cater to her clients needs and presenting problems such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Dani aims to engage with clients authentically and collaboratively, offering an empathetic, vibrant, and respectful therapeutic approach. She encourages self-awareness, self-understanding, and self-motivation and aims to ensure that the treatment modalities offered are responsive to the clients needs and goals.
Outside of work Dani enjoys spending time with her friends and family, reading and playing with her two adorable corgis.
Psychologist
Amy Livingstone
Amy works with young people and adults experiencing a range of mental health difficulties and stressors. She works with a range of issues including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, trauma, personality, relationships, addiction, and forensic. Amy prioritises establishing a safe therapeutic space and collaborating with clients to achieve meaningful treatment goals. She provides a personalised and evidence-based approach, drawing from modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Schema Therapy. Amy is a generally registered Psychologist and is currently completing her registrar program for clinical endorsement. Her postgraduate research explored Forest Therapy as a complement to traditional approaches. Amy's days at United Minds are Mondays and Fridays.
Psychologist
Isabella Bedford-Dyer
Isabella is a registered psychologist and identifies as autistic. Isabella works with those from 6+ years old and has a particular interest in working with neurodivergent individuals.
Isabella focuses on creating a safe space for all humans, and utilises a client-centred, neuro-affirming and trauma informed approach to support and help individuals flourish. Isabella aims to have every neurodivergent individual feel safe and comfortable enough to drop masking and support the growth of a unique identity. Isabella is also trained in completing assessments for autism, ADHD and learning difficulties, and incorporates various strength based, therapeutic approaches such as CBT, ACT, play-based therapy, and polyvagal theory.
In her spare time Isabella enjoys reading, crocheting, cooking, and hanging out with her two ragdoll cats Daisy and Lulu.
Psychologist
Anneka Richmond
Watch this space
Psychologist
Nicola Karaconstantis
Nicola is passionate about working with her clients to support them to achieve their best version of themselves. She has a particular interest in working to support children and adolescent aged individuals and their families. Nicola facilitates a warm environment for young individuals to feel heard and supported. She has experience working across the lifespan with a range of client presentations in the areas of therapeutic intervention and diagnostic assessment. Nicola practices from a client-centred, neurodiversity affirming, and trauma informed approach with techniques integrated from cognitive behavioural, solution focused, and play based modalities.
Nicola has completed a Master of Professional Psychology at Monash University and is a registered psychologist with AHPRA. She is also an associate member of the Australian Psychological Society and is a Certified Facilitator of LEGO® Based Therapy.
Psychologist
Steffi Diamantopoulos
Watch this space
Psychologist
Paulina Pyrchia
Paulina is a warm and empathetic registered psychologist who has worked in a range of organisations, with individuals from diverse backgrounds. She aims to create a safe space where you can feel understood and empowered throughout the therapeutic process. Paulina aims to support her clients to achieve greater insight, manage distress and improve wellbeing, while maintaining a steady path towards goal achievement.
Paulina utilises evidence based frameworks with her clients to enhance strengths, develop new skills and promote an environment where meaningful change can occur. She has experience assisting clients to work through presentations of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, adjustment to change, grief and loss, life transitions, stress management, and vocational related matters.
In her spare time Paulina enjoys dining out, and spending quality time with her family and friends.
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Psychologist
Christina Ambrosi
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Psychologist
Vanessa Calvo
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Psychologist
Rachael Broomhall
Rachael (she/her) is a registered psychologist who is committed to providing therapeutic counselling for individuals across the lifespan.
Rachael draws from a range of evidence-based approaches which are tailored to each client's needs. She integrates aspects from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and schema therapy.
Rachael strives to cultivate a safe and collaborative space for her clients which is guided by a trauma-informed lens. She has experience working with clients with symptoms associated with anxiety, social anxiety, panic, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, stress, trauma-related issues, sleep disturbances and substance use issues.
In her free time, Rachael enjoys experimenting in the kitchen and going on nature walks with her dog, Douglas.
Mental Health Social Workers
Mental Health Social Worker
Thanh Nguyen
Thanh is an accredited mental health social worker who has intensive experience working with people who have a history of complex trauma and addiction. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy ( Level 2) and is committed to advancing her skills in EMDR. Thanh speaks English and Vietnamese.
AREAS OF INTEREST
Thanh has an interest in working with adolescents and adults who have history of trauma, PTSD, addiction, attachment issues and mood related disorders.
THERAPY STYLE
Thanh is empathetic and gentle in her therapy style. She understands that connection and rapport are the foundation for the therapeutic change to happen in the sessions. She also enjoys challenging clients where necessary to help clients grow out of their comfort zone. She is passionate in helping trauma survivors to understand their needs and being able to learn assertive communication skills in relationships. She works from an Adaptive Information Processing model that describes how certain memories are maladaptively stored in the brain and ‘the past is present’ which caused unhelpful belief and behaviours in our life and relationship. Thanh focuses on teaching client emotional regulation skills before working on their trauma. Safety and support are paramount in Thanh’s sessions. She works with your nervous system to help you to desensitise and be free from your trauma.Thanh has completed Level 2 training in EMDR and will continue to advance her skills in trauma work. She usually uses Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in conjunction with EMDR to help clients. She is also influenced by Gestalt therapy, which focuses on the here and now in the session and her relational therapeutic relationship with her clients. She understands that clients can’t process trauma if they can not stay in the here and now.
Mental Health Social Worker
Mohammadreza Shabdehkordi
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Provisional Psychologists
Provisional Psychologist
Celia Goldie
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Provisional Psychologist
Alana Guthrie
Alana (she/her) is a provisional psychologist who is currently completing her internship with United Minds, after concluding her Master of Professional Psychology at ACU in 2023.
Alana is committed to providing a safe and respectful space to collaborate with clients in their own care and identifying their own goals and needs. Alana is dedicated to using evidence-based practices to support individuals from across the lifespan, including, CBT and ACT. Alana is interested in working with individuals who are experiencing a range of health concerns and life difficulties.
Provisional Psychologist (only available February-June 2024)
Hridant Vakharia
Hridant is a provisionally registered psychologist currently completing a Master’s of Clinical Psychology from La Trobe University. Hridant is committed to providing a safe and respectful space for clients and collaborates with them to fulfill their goals and help them meet their full potential. Throughout his academic journey, Hridant has demonstrated a strong theoretical foundation in psychology, coupled with practical experience gained through internships and coursework. Hridant works with a range of presentations including mood disorders, anxiety, stress management and grief. Through various evidence-based practices and approaches, Hridant is dedicated to support clients across the lifespan with their respective concerns, develop coping skills and guide them on their journey to recovery. He has a strong interest in conducting assessments and supporting clients through the process. Outside of work, Hridant enjoys cooking, reading, playing some squash and being in nature.
Provisional Psychologist (only available February-June 2024)
Katherine Howell
Katherine (she/her) is a provisionally registered psychologist currently completing her Master of Educational and Developmental Psychology at Monash University.
Katherine has experience supporting neurodivergent young people in a therapeutic capacity. Katherine also has a background in research, completing a Doctor of Philosophy program in 2020. Her research focused on the outcomes of community, organised physical activity for children on the autism spectrum.
Katherine has a passion for supporting inclusion and improving the well-being of all individuals. She is an empathetic, warm person who aims to create a safe and collaborative space; she uses a range of evidence-based practices to suit each client's needs, including, for example, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
In her spare time, Katherine enjoys being in nature and spending time with her pets.
Provisional Psychologist (only available February-June 2024)
Chanelle Flannery
Chanelle is a compassionate provisionally registered psychologist, nearing completion of her Masters of Clinical Psychology, driven by a sincere commitment to help individuals thrive on their unique paths. With a warm and empathetic approach, she endeavors to see both adults and children reach their fullest potential.
Utilizing evidence-based interventions, tailored to individual preferences, Chanelle collaborates closely with her clients to cultivate coping skills, resilience, and mental well-being. Chanelle works with all ages and various mental health concerns, including anxiety, mood disorders, stress management, life transitions, self-esteem, burnout, grief and loss, and perinatal mental health. Excited to guide individuals on their healing journey, Chanelle is passionate about facilitating lives filled with purpose and fulfillment, underlining the significance of holistic well-being for everyone. Outside of work Chanelle enjoys nature, spending time with her family and pets. She loves cooking and doing creative projects with her two kids that are "full of life".