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Child Psychologists in Perth

Clinical Psychologists provide child mental health evaluations and therapeutic treatments for behavioural, emotional, social or educational problems.

Seeing a Paediatric Psychologist at Baby Steps can help children experiencing trauma or grief, anxiety or stress, toileting issues, problems sleeping, eating or socialising, and managing chronic illness.

Specialising in

A non-exhaustive list including but not limited to:

Clinical Psychologists
at Baby Steps

John Gardiner​ Clinical Psychologist​

John Gardiner

With over 30 years’ experience in childhood emotional and behavioural psychology, John knows exactly how to talk to kids in a way that makes them comfortable to open up. A softy at heart, his wonderful sense of humour comes through and establishes trust with his patients, allowing real progress to take shape.

Graduated from Murdoch University with a Master of Applied Psychology Clinical Psychology & Developmental Psychology

Practicing Psychologist for over 30 years
Works with children, adolescents, families, couples, adults, organisations and schools
Chief Clinical Psychologist at Princess Margaret Hospital for 13 years
Senior Lecturer and Clinical Director at Murdoch University
Clinical Psychologist at Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services

Chronic health
Mental health

Collector of degrees (Law, Special Education, Psychology)
Hiker of the Perth Hills
Enjoys a spot of solitude
Proud dog lover

Kathleen Purser

Kathleen is a Registered Psychologist who provides counselling services as well as psychometric assessments and reporting. She believes in developing a strong therapeutic relationship with clients in order to best support positive outcomes and help clients achieve their goals. Kathleen’s counselling approach is tailored to the client and may include a combination of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Kathleen works Tuesdays at the clinic.

Bachelor of Psychology Degree with Honours from Curtin University of Technology.
Graduate Diploma in Education (School Psychology) from the University of Western Australia.
Psychology Board-approved Supervisor with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Kathleen has over 9 years’ experience working with children and adolescents, and their parents and caregivers across the domains of mental health, wellbeing, learning and behaviour. She also works as a School Psychologist.

Working with neurodivergent clients and promoting neuro-affirming practice
Using a client focussed and creative therapeutic approach
Teaching meditation and mindfulness techniques

In Kathleen’s free time she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling the world, singing in a choir, doing craft activities, gardening, and hanging out with her schmoodle ‘Alfie

Kerrie Watson

Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Pre-Practice)
Graduate Diploma in Education

Generally Registered Psychologist
Also works as a School Psychologist
Previous School Teacher

Educational and developmental assessments
Counselling services – including a combination of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Loves to be outdoors- kayaking and hiking
Loves to travel
Loves spending time with her two rescue fur babies

Luwandi Perera

Luwandi offers a dynamic blend of energy, practicality, and calmness in supporting children, adolescents, and their families. Her bubbly and practical approach creates a positive environment, complemented by a calm demeanour for emotional support. Grounded in a deep understanding of educational and developmental needs with her background in School Psychology, Luwandi provides holistic guidance, leaving those she assists feeling reassured with a clear roadmap for their journey.

Bachelor of Psychology
Diploma of Education (Primary)

Co-founder and Psychologist at Exploring Minds Psychology. With experience working in the Wheatbelt, Southwest and Metropolitan education regions as a school psychologist, Luwandi now enjoys working in private practice.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Specific Learning Disorders (Dyslexia, Dysgraphia – language based, Dyscalculia)
Educational Assessments
Parent Consultations
Emotional Regulation

A mum who loves holidaying with her family and making new memories
Bikram yoga
Food and eating out

Tarryn Scher

Tarryn is a compassionate, warm, and engaging individual who effortlessly connects with children of all ages and their families. Her therapeutic approach is marked by enthusiasm and expertise. Tarryn places a strong emphasis on listening and takes a holistic approach to her care, considering the child within the context of their broader circle of influence. With experience working as a school psychologist in both department and private school settings, Tarryn ensures that parents feel heard and supported.

Bachelor of Psychology (Honours)
Graduate Diploma of Education Majoring in School Psychology

Co-founder and Psychologist at Exploring Minds Psychology
Working as a School Psychologist across schooling sectors (Department of Education, Catholic Education, private schooling sector).

Anxiety
Specific Learning Disorders (Dyslexia, Language-based Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia)
ADHD
Parent Consultations
Grief and loss

Spending time with family and friends
Being a dog mum
Reformer Pilates

Mind matters

Book a Paediatric Psychologist at Baby Steps.

The Clinical Guidance Committee advise Baby Steps on all clinical matters effecting the health practitioners within our centre. It’s members gather together to discuss and develop guidelines relating to:

Meetings are held several times a year, or at the request of Baby Steps for specific clinical advice. It is lead by a chairperson and educational coordinator, elected by the group of participating health practitioners.

Baby Steps supports the independent businesses of:

If you’re looking for support, contact our Practice Manager Michelle Bredemeyer
pm@babystepshealth.com.au
08 9387 2844