Diana Maggs Psych Services

Treating Mental health not Mental illness

My name is Diana

I am a Neurodevelopmental Psychologist. I hold a Masters in Education and Developmental Psychology from Monash University. What does that mean? Years of study and years of training. It means that in addition to an undergraduate and honours year in psychological studies, I have a further two years training in assessing, diagnosing and treating developmental disorders (primarily ADHD, ASD and SLD and ID), and the associated issues that can come with these conditions; Behavioural problems, Anxiety, Depression, Self esteem issues, Parenting, Family conflict, Relationship issues, Communication e.t.c. For adults, teens, children, and families

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A Multidynamic therapeutic treatment approach

I take a holistic approach to mental health, recognizing that physical, emotional, and spiritual health are interconnected. This means a treatment plan that addresses all aspects of their well-being. This includes nutrition, exercise, sleep, and other lifestyle factors that can impact mental health.

I focus on teaching people the skills an

I focus on teaching people the skills and knowledge they need to navigate what they are going through. I break psychology down to a very practical relatable level. If you want to talk through problems and find solutions - we can do that; if you want programs to follow a particular therapy- we can do that. I use clinical assessments to track your progress and I can screen for any underlying issues that you might be worried about. I work with your doctor to give you continuity of care and peace of mind that you are cared for.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Please email if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)?

DBT is designed to help individuals manage intense emotions, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and improve interpersonal relationships. DBT focuses on four key skill sets:

Mindfulness: Learning to be present in the moment and observe thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Emotional Regulation: Identifying, understanding, and managing intense emotions.
Distress Tolerance: Developing healthy ways to cope with painful emotions and situations.
Interpersonal Effectiveness: Learning to communicate needs and boundaries effectively in relationships.

What is CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

CBT is a form of psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of problems including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness.

CBT treatment usually involves efforts to change thinking patterns. These strategies might include:

Learning to recognize one’s distortions in thinking that are creating problems, and then to reevaluate them in light of reality.
Gaining a better understanding of the behavior and motivation of others.
Using problem-solving skills to cope with difficult situations.
Learning to develop a greater sense of confidence in one’s own abilities.

CBT treatment also usually involves efforts to change behavioral patterns. These strategies might include:

Facing one’s fears instead of avoiding them.
Using role playing to prepare for potentially problematic interactions with others.
Learning to calm one’s mind and relax one’s body.

EMDR is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. It helps to process your memories in a safe environment. EMDR therapy shows that the mind can in fact heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma. The brain’s information processing system naturally moves toward mental health. If the system is blocked or imbalanced by the impact of a disturbing event, the emotional wound festers and can cause intense suffering. Once the block is removed, healing resumes. Using the detailed protocols and procedures learned in EMDR therapy training sessions, clinicians help clients activate their natural healing processes.

Common acronyms AND WHAT THEY MEAN

What is ADHD?

Attention Deficity Hyperactivity Disorder is a developmental disorder (meaning onset of symptoms is during the developmental period). It effects everything from impulse-control, focusing, and organization to the ability to regulate your emotions. For more information please refer to Adult ADHD under services.

What is ASD?

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is described as a “developmental disorder” because symptoms generally appear in the first 2 years of life. People who have ASD will often struggle to understand emotional language. It makes social relationships hard. Psychological therapy can help you to teach you body language, social communication, skills and conflict resolution skills.

What is OCD?

Obsessive Complusive Disorder is an anxiety disorder. It is a pattern of unwanted thoughts and fears (obsessions) that lead you to do repetitive behaviors (compulsions). It is not being overly neat or rearranging your sock drawer. It is a anxiety disorder that is incredibly difficult to live with and can cause significant distress. These obsessions and compulsions interfere with everyday activities. I can help you to determine if you have OCD and help you to determine your next steps - whether that be through Exposure Response Therapy or refering you to a clinical specialist. ADHD and OCD can have overlapping features.

Welcome

Supporting Your Well-Being and helping you find a path forward

Treating Mental health not Mental illness

A Multidynamic therapeutic treatment approach

Frequently Asked Questions

Common acronyms AND WHAT THEY MEAN

Welcome

Supporting Your Well-Being and helping you find a path forward

Treating Mental health not Mental illness

A Multidynamic therapeutic treatment approach

Frequently Asked Questions

Common acronyms AND WHAT THEY MEAN

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