Menu
Therapy & Support
Evidence-based psychology support for children and teens (4-17) facing emotional, behavioural, social, or developmental challenges.
About
Our child and adolescent psychology services support young people aged approximately 4–17 years who are experiencing emotional, behavioural, social, or developmental challenges.
Our clinicians specialise in child development, anxiety, school stress, autism assessment, and Positive Behaviour Support — offering evidence-based care that is practical, strengths-focused, and grounded in a deep understanding of how children and young people learn, grow, and relate to the world.
We work closely with families, schools, and other professionals to ensure each child receives coordinated, compassionate support that meets their unique needs.
At a glance
Our Approach
When a family engages our psychology team, they can expect:
We take time to build trust, understand each child's strengths, and create a safe space where they feel comfortable and supported.
Depending on the referral concerns, this may include clinical interviews, standardised assessments, school feedback, and collaborative goal-setting.
Our clinicians draw on cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), Positive Behaviour Support, and practical skill-building strategies tailored to each child's needs.
Who
Children, teens, and families navigating emotional, behavioural, or developmental challenges.
Access
We welcome private-paying families, NDIS participants, and children referred under GP Mental Health Treatment Plans.
A referral from your GP under a Mental Health Treatment Plan enables Medicare rebates for eligible sessions.
See our Fees & Rebates page for current rebate amounts.
Contact us directly to book (note: direct referrals are not eligible for Medicare rebates).
Support Coordinator referrals welcome — intake forms must be completed by parents or legal guardians.
At Caterpillar Clinic, our psychologists work with children and teenagers (around 4 to 17 years) and their families across Cairns and Far North Queensland. Therapy is warm, practical and tailored to your child's age and stage — helping young people understand their feelings, build coping skills, and get back to enjoying school, friendships and family life.
We support children and teens experiencing:
We choose the approach that best fits your child:
We see children and adolescents from approximately 4 to 17 years. Every plan is individualised, and we actively involve parents and carers so the helpful strategies continue at home.
Your first session is about getting to know your child and understanding your goals. From there we agree a simple plan, work through practical skills session by session, and review progress together. Many families use a GP Mental Health Care Plan to claim a Medicare rebate, and we warmly welcome NDIS participants.
Therapy is delivered by our team of AHPRA-registered psychologists, led by Clinical Director Dr Rachel Pearce (PhD, BCBA-D). Meet the team to find the right fit for your child — and when you are ready, get in touch to book.
Other ways we support children, families and the people around them.
Child & adolescent psychology in Cairns — common questions.
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
