Menu
ABOUT CATERPILLAR CLINIC
Supporting children, teens, young adults and their families with high-quality, compassionate psychological care across the Cairns region.
Est. 2013
700+
11
NDIS
Why We’re Here
We aim to offer comprehensive, compassionate, and evidence based care that enhances the quality of life for children and families.
Our mission is to support children, teens, young adults, and their families with high‑quality, compassionate psychological care across the Cairns region. We aim to help every client achieve meaningful, positive outcomes that improve daily life, wellbeing, and relationships. We do this by providing thorough, thoughtful assessments, clear guidance, and evidence‑based interventions that are grounded in strong scientific knowledge. Our team is committed to practising ethically, respecting and understanding each person’s cultural background, and following recognised best‑practice standards. We continue to grow our skills and expertise so the families who come to us receive the most effective and up‑to‑date support possible.
Your First Steps
From your first call to ongoing support, here is how the process works.
Call us on 07 4281 6886 or email [email protected]. Our admin team will take some initial details and help you understand the right pathway for your child.
We’ll send you the Child & Family Intake Form. This helps us understand your child’s history, your concerns, and your goals before the first appointment.
A relaxed, one-hour conversation with your clinician — primarily for parents and caregivers. You don’t need to bring your child. We’ll discuss your concerns and recommend the best path forward.
Depending on your child’s needs, we’ll proceed with a diagnostic assessment or begin regular therapy sessions. Your clinician coordinates with schools, GPs, and other professionals as needed.
Clinical Leadership
Dr Rachel Pearce
PhD BCBA MAAP
Clinic Director | Registered Psychologist
Board Certified Behaviour Analyst
Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner
My clinical philosophy is grounded in the belief that every child does their best in the context of safe, trusting relationships. I work from a strengths‑based, neuroaffirming approach that affirms each child or young person’s individuality, lived experience, and developmental needs. Behaviour is understood as communication, and my role is to help families, educators, and support teams interpret that communication with compassion and a clear path forward.
I integrate evidence‑based assessment and intervention with practical, everyday strategies that genuinely fit a child’s world. I prioritise collaboration between caregivers, schools, health professionals, and community supports, because sustainable change happens when everyone is working together with shared understanding and predictable, supportive routines.
My aim is always to build capacity, confidence, and connection. I help families understand why challenges are occurring, what is driving behaviour, and how to create environments where children feel safe, regulated, and able to thrive.
Clinical focus: Older children and adolescents — social behaviour, anxiety, depression, OCD, anger and aggression, grief and loss, body image, and complex presentations.
Currently accepting: New clients (older children and adolescents) and supervisees on the 5+1 training pathway.
Visit Us
Our clinic at 4/161 Aumuller Street, Bungalow is designed to feel calm and welcoming from the moment you arrive. Therapy rooms are set up for children of all ages, with spaces for play-based sessions, quiet conversation, and assessment work.
What Guides Us
At Caterpillar Clinic, everything we do — and the way we do it — is guided by a clear set of values. They shape how we work with children, families, and each other.
Compassion
Every child deserves warmth, patience, and understanding. We create safe spaces where children feel heard and supported.
Respect & Dignity
We honour each child’s individuality, lived experience, and developmental journey. Our approach is strengths-based and neuroaffirming.
Evidence-Based Practice
Our assessments and interventions are grounded in strong scientific knowledge and recognised best-practice standards.
Family-Centred Care
We work alongside families, not just with children. Sustainable change happens when caregivers, schools, and support teams share understanding.
Cultural Sensitivity
We respect and seek to understand each person’s cultural background, adapting our approach to meet the unique needs of every family.
Collaboration
We partner with families, educators, health professionals, and community supports to ensure coordinated, effective care.
Continuous Growth
We are committed to advancing our skills and the field of child psychology through ongoing learning, research, and advocacy.
Caterpillar Clinic specialises in diagnostic assessments and clinical interventions for children and adolescents in Cairns.
We’ll get back to you within one business day.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Creating Change for Children
Private child and adolescent psychology practice in Cairns, supporting families through assessment and intervention.
© 2026 Caterpillar Clinic
