Sarah McWhinney
Mount Lawley,WA
Summary
Provisional Psychologist with expertise in neurodevelopmental assessments, particularly in ASD and ADHD, and recent training in Specific Learning Disorder assessment. Currently part of a multidisciplinary team at The Healan Centre, conducting comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessments and evidence-based recommendations for children and families. Proficient in psychometric testing, clinical report writing, and culturally sensitive feedback delivery. Dedicated to client-centered, neuro-affirming care and fostering strong relationships with clients and families.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Provisional Psychologist
The Healan Centre
01.2024 - Current
- Conduct neurodevelopmental assessments with children, adolescents, and adults, focusing on ASD, ADHD, and SLD.
- Psychometric testing (MIGDAS-2; ADI-R; ADOS-2; Connors Rating Scales; WISC-V)
- Deliver comprehensive reports with diagnostic impressions, educational recommendations, and support strategies.
- Participate in multidisciplinary case discussions with allied health and medical professionals.
- Provide feedback to families with a neuro-affirming, client-centred, strengths-based approach.
Provisional Psychologist
Direction Psychology
04.2022 - 03.2024
- Provided individual and family interventions across private practice, education (high school), and aged care settings.
- Conducted psychometric testing (ADI-R, ADOS-2, WISC-V, WAIS-IV, Conners-4, DASS-21, K10 etc.) and supported diagnostic processes.
- Prepared treatment plans, reports, and GP correspondence in line with APS standards and WA Mental Health Act (2014).
- Supported clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.
Child Protection Worker
Department of Communities
04.2021 - 02.2022
- Collaborated with families, schools, and agencies to implement protective strategies for children.
- Assessed child safety concerns and developed case plans with trauma-informed support.
- Built rapport with children and families from diverse backgrounds facing distress.
- Facilitated meetings to discuss family progress and address challenges.
- Documented case information accurately in electronic systems to ensure compliance.
- Coordinated with law enforcement and legal teams on sensitive cases.
- Participated in training programs to deepen understanding of child protection laws.
Education
Graduate Certificate -
Diagnosis And Assessment of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)
University Of Western Australia 06-2024
Bachelor of Psychology - Psychology
Curtin University
Bentley, WA01.2020
UniReady -
Curtin University
Perth, WA01.2014
High School Certificate -
Perth College
Mount Lawley01.2013
Skills
- Neurodevelopmental assessments (ASD, ADHD, SLD, FASD)
- Psychometric testing (DASS-21, K10, WISC-V, WAIS-IV)
- Comprehensive report writing
- Client-centered approach
- Diagnostic formulation (DSM-5-TR)
- Evidence-based frameworks
- Collaborative practice and stakeholder engagement
- Therapeutic support strategies
- Culturally responsive practices
- Risk assessment methodologies
- Ethical decision-making
Affiliations
- Provisional Psychologist, AHPRA Registered
- Member, AAPI
Professional Development
- SLD Training (DSF) - 2025
- MIGDAS-2 - 2024
- ADI-R Clinical & Research Training – 2023
- ADOS-2 Clinical Training – 2023
- SLD Assessment Training (DSF) – 2024
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Competence – 2022
- ACT for Beginners – 2022
- Mental Health Academy courses (ASD, Anxiety, OCD, Trauma, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Therapy, etc.) – 2022
- Safe & Together (FDV) Training – 2021
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Provisional Psychologist
The Healan Centre
01.2024 - Current
Provisional Psychologist
Direction Psychology
04.2022 - 03.2024
Child Protection Worker
Department of Communities
04.2021 - 02.2022
Graduate Certificate -
Diagnosis And Assessment of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)
Bachelor of Psychology - Psychology
Curtin University
UniReady -
Curtin University
High School Certificate -
Perth College