Challenging Behaviour Therapy for Children and Adolescents

Challenging behaviours in children and adolescents can affect relationships at home, school and in the community. Behaviours such as aggression, avoidance, meltdowns, lying, or school refusal often reflect distress rather than defiance. Our psychologists and counsellors in the Sutherland Shire provide evidence-based therapy for challenging behaviour to help children feel safe, connected, and supported.​

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At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in Menai, our registered psychologists and counsellors work with children, adolescents, and families to understand the factors contributing to emotional and behavioural difficulties. These may include anxiety, trauma, family stress, perfectionism, low self-esteem, or challenges meeting social or academic expectations.

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In some cases, neurodevelopmental differences such as ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), or learning challenges influence how a child communicates, regulates emotions, and responds to their environment. We also support young people whose distress is linked with eating disorders, body image concerns, or difficulties adjusting to change.

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Our team brings extensive experience across private practice, community and government settings, including child protection, health and education.  We provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy to help children, adolescents and families strengthen emotional regulation, improve communication and build more positive relationships.

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Therapy is guided by each person’s developmental stage and individual needs, and may draw on:

 

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Family Systems Therapy

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT-informed strategies)

• Play-based and creative therapies

• Art Therapy

• Trauma-informed interventions

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We also support families navigating parental separation, blended family dynamics, or significant life changes, offering flexible options such as online sessions when attending in person is not possible.​

 

Located in Menai, our private practice provides professional, evidence-based support for children, adolescents, and parents across the Sutherland Shire who are navigating behavioural, emotional, or family challenges. Learn more about our Adolescent Counselling and Family Counselling.

 

If your child is finding it difficult to manage emotions, behaviour, or change, help is available. Contact Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in Menai on 02 8519 4197, or click below to request an appointment or submit an enquiry.

 

If you are worried about immediate risk, please call 000. For 24/7 support, contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800.