Vanessa Petersen (she/her)

I provide understanding that goes beyond diagnoses, revealing the complete, beautiful complexity of every child. I'm a Clinical Neuropsychologist working with children and young people aged 6 to 25, providing comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessment for layered, co-occurring profiles. I threw out the rigid, clinical approach years ago. Good assessment begins when a young person feels safe — and I take whatever time and creativity that needs.

• services

  • Assessment

  • Therapy/Support

  • Professional Supervision

  • Supervision for Endorsement

  • School advocacy

  • Bridging the gap between your child's needs and school supports

• availability

  • Assessment: currently 2 - 4 months

  • Therapy: I offer therapy to explore self-identity following assessment with me, currently no wait time

• contact

  Email: vanessa@neurotype.com.au

• more info

  I'm Dr Vanessa Petersen, a Clinical Neuropsychologist with over 15 years of experience. At Neurotype I provide comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessment for children and young people aged 6 to 25, with a particular focus on profiles that don't fit neatly into one diagnostic question: autism alongside ADHD, giftedness and learning differences, twice-exceptional profiles, and the cognitive impact of neurological or medical conditions.
  
  I threw out the rigid, clinical approach years ago. Young people aren't tested or judged in the traditional sense in my room. Instead, I meet them where they are. If that means following a child's lead into an imaginary world, taking movement breaks for star jumps, or adjusting my whole approach to match their comfort level, that's what I do. Every assessment begins with My Brain Adventure (https://neurotype.com.au/what-to-expect#panel-young-people), a small book I created that walks young visitors through what to expect before their first session. Preparation, predictability, and a sense of safety are what make good assessment possible.
  
  My work is about looking for what's truly driving a young person's experiences, not just what shows on the surface. Every assessment ends with a usable report — practical, classroom-ready recommendations for schools, an NDIS letter where relevant, and a feedback session for the family. Beyond assessment, I offer school advocacy and identity-affirming family support. I'm an AHPRA Board Approved Supervisor and a member of the College of Clinical Neuropsychologists.