Compassionate Psychology Services in Shellharbour, NSW
Paediatric
We provide specialist child and adolescent psychology services, including assessment, diagnosis, and therapy, to help young people thrive.
Adults
Our adult psychology services include comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based therapy tailored to your individual needs and goals.
Welcome to Anna M. Shewan Psychology
Anna's practice is based in Shellharbour and services the Illawarra region and beyond. Anna has over 35 years of clinical experience. She offers a range of assessment, diagnostic and therapy services and specialises in children and adolescents. Anna does provide services to adults, particularly those referred for, or querying, autism spectrum disorder and/or ADHD diagnoses in themselves. Anna has had a long-standing interest in Autism Spectrum Disorder, being one of the few psychologists in the 1990s located in the Illawarra area with this interest. Anna seeks to help clients overcome obstacles and find acceptance to reach their full potential.
About Anna Shewan
Clinical Psychologist, BA (Psych), M. Stud. Psych., Clin. Psych., MAPS.
Experience
Anna has over 30 years of clinical practice, which includes the following:
- Nine years as a psychologist/clinical psychologist on a children's community team (service for intellectual disability & autism spectrum disorder), Department of Health/Family & Community Services. On this team, Anna worked closely with paediatricians predominantly in assessment and diagnosis. She developed an interest and expertise in Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly what was then known as Asperger's Disorder.
- Private practice where Anna continued her interest in Autism Spectrum Disorder and, at the time, was one of the few practitioners in the local area with this interest. Private practice also gave her the opportunity to broaden her areas of focus and expertise.
- In addition to her private practice, Anna worked at The Illawarra Grammar School (TIGS) as a school counsellor/psychologist for three terms, working with students from Prep to Year 12.
- In 2014, in addition to her independent private practice, Anna commenced at ECPC (now know as One Roof Therapy and Assessment Clinic) as a clinical psychologist.
- Anna continues to work as a clinical psychologist at One Roof Therapy and Assessment Clinic, located in Shellharbour.
Outside of Work
Anna enjoys spending time with family and friends, travelling, spending time in the snow, water skiing, and walking along the beach.
Why?
Anna enjoys working with children. She has developed an interest in psychology while in high school, considering both psychology and preschool teaching as career paths. Anna has subsequently combined both interests. She is passionate about helping others reach their maximum potential and find acceptance and happiness.
Qualifications, Professional Memberships
& Services
- Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) (BA Psych)
- Master of Studies in Psychology (M. Stud. Psych)
- Master of Clinical Psychology (M. Clin. Psych)
- Member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS)
- Member of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists
- Registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
- Registered User of Griffiths III (Association for Research in Infant and Child Development)
- Telehealth Considered on Request
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a psychologist and a counsellor?
A psychologist has a minimum of six years of combined university study and supervised training; a clinical psychologist has completed postgraduate university training. Psychologists/Clinical Psychologists are registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Psychologists are qualified to conduct formal assessments and diagnoses, as well as deliver evidence-based therapy. Counsellors provide talking therapies but are not able to conduct psychological assessments or diagnoses.
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist?
You do not need a referral to see a psychologist, except if you want to access Medicare rebates. There are several different referral types that attract Medicare rebates. Referrals from your GP include chronic disease management plans for chronic conditions and complex care needs and mental health care plans for mental health conditions. For assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, a referral from a paediatrician or psychiatrist under a Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder and Disability plan (CND) (previously known as the Helping Children With Autism plan) can be used for clients under 25 years of age.
How long does a psychology appointment usually take?
This can vary depending on the referral, though initial appointments such as parent interviews, diagnostic interviews and initial therapy appointments typically take one hour, as they involve gathering background information and establishing goals. Subsequent sessions range from 30 to 60 minutes. Your psychologist will discuss the recommended frequency and duration of sessions based on individual needs.
What can I expect at my first appointment?
Your first appointment is an opportunity to share what has brought you to psychology and what you are hoping to achieve. Your psychologist will ask questions to better understand your background, current concerns, and goals. It is a confidential and supportive conversation, and there is no pressure to share more than you feel comfortable with.
Call us on (02) 4295 1173 and let us help you take the first step towards positive change.