How it all began…
STAND Attuned originated from a group of experienced Clinical and Generalist Psychologists in Perth, Western Australia.
Collectively bringing more than 80 years experience to their private clinical practices, the group originated as a peer-led learning space for advanced practice in Schema Therapy. We found a shared focus on working with clients who had complex and persistent presenting concerns.
It became apparent that many clients who responded atypically to Schema Therapy interventions had some form of undiagnosed neurodivergence. This led to exploration of ways in which the neuro-normative model of Schema Therapy did, and did not, meet the needs of neurodivergent clients.
It was through this reflective process of truly listening to neurodivergent client voices, as well as the therapists’ lived experiences of neurodivergence that STAND Attuned was born.
Why STAND Attuned'?
The name "STAND Attuned" is intended to highlight the fundamental importance of skilled therapist attunement to effective Schema Therapy intervention, which cannot be achieved without truly understanding and empathising with the experience of their client.
Hi, I'm Dr Emma DeCicco
Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Director of the Dash Health Hub in Perth, Western Australia
These bios are always tricky to write... How does one ignore the "ick" feeling of self-promotion, whilst sharing facts that others need to know to inform their decision-making?!
Start with a reflective quote perhaps? "Psychology expertise is a delicate blend of science and art, where evidence-based practices meet the nuanced understanding of the individual human experience." - Unknown.
Or maybe a 'Stats List":
15 years of experience across a variety of clinical settings
Trained in numerous therapeutic modalities, including Schema Therapy, EMDR and ACT
Board Approved Supervisor
Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinician
Professional Practice Fellow of the University of Western Australia
Wait, that's not actually reflective of me, this quote is better "To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." - Ralph Waldo Emerson
Round it out with the truth: My passion lies in working with neurodivergence, trauma and complex eating disorders across the lifespan. I also have the privilege of supporting my wonderful team at The Dash - Health Hub, who are dedicated to delivering exceptional care across neuro-, gender- and sexual-diverse populations.
Essentially, as a clinician, mother, and human, at the core of my approach is a deep belief in the power of lived experience and human connection. I like to keep things real!
“
”
Hi, I'm Alyssa Garrett
Senior Clinical Psychologist and owner of Neurodiversity Haven Psychology in Perth, Western Australia.
Alyssa has 16 years experience in clinical settings, and specialises in working with complex and persistent psychological difficulties using evidence-based interventions.
She is highly experienced in Schema Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and has a busy private practice founded on neurodiversity affirming principles — you can find out more about it here: www.ndhaven.com.au.
In recent years Alyssa has become aware that clients who responded to interventions in unexpected ways often had undiagnosed Autism or ADHD, which led her to a deep dive into how to work in a Neurodiversity Affirming framework. Central to Alyssa's clinical practice is the presumption that the client is the expert on their own experience and is an equal collaborator in the enriching process of therapeutic change.
Clinical experience has shown Alyssa that neurodiversity affirming adaptations to Schema Therapy practice can have a profound impact on therapeutic outcomes. This knowledge inspires her to educate fellow Schema Therapists to adjust their practice to better meet their clients' needs.
Would you like to know more?
Check out our Resources page to discover what STAND Attuned training has to offer.