Meet The MindWare Team
Veronica McKeon (Director/Clinical Psychologist)
BA (Psych), Post Grad Dip (Ed Psych), MPsych (Clinical) MAPS
Veronica has been working as a Psychologist for the last 15 years with a varied experience base, included adults, children and adolescents. She has experience treating a range of psychological issues including depression, general anxiety, panic attacks, post natal depression, adjustment issues, grief, relationship problems, sexual abuse, mood and anxiety disorders in children. Areas of special interest include adolescent females, women’s issues, pregnancy, PTSD, trauma. Veronica works from a client centred approach utilising Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and other creative modes of practice. Veronica has also been involved in the development of the Garden of Feelings program which has been delivered in a number of schools.
Tanya Hall (Director/Clinical Psychologist)
B.Sci (Psych), PostGradDipPsych, MPsych (Clinical), MAPS, Cert IV Training and Assessment, Cert IV Program Development and Facilitation
Tanya has over 15 years experience working with children, adolescents and adults in voluntary and involuntary settings. Tanya is a registered psychologist having completed a Masters in Clinical Psychology. Tanya has experience delivering individual therapy, group therapy and clinical assessments. Tanya has worked with a range of presentations including anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, substance misuse, addictions, PTSD, grief and loss, adjustment and anger management. In addition to her psychology training Tanya has nearly 10 years experience developing and delivering a range of organisational training programs using multi modal delivery such as face to face and e-learning options.
Rebecca Sims (Clinical Psychologist)
BSc(Psych), BPsyScHons, MPsych(Clin), PhD, MAPS
Rebecca has a passion for helping clients of all ages with a range of psychological conditions, including anxiety, depression, adjustment, eating disorders, personality and developmental disorders, through individual, family, and group therapies. Working from a client centred approach, Rebecca utilises a range of evidence-based therapies, including cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and trauma therapies (e.g., Eye-Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing [EMDR]), to develop individualised interventions for all her clients. Rebecca has a broad range of professional experience, including working with inmates at the Southern Queensland Correctional Centre, children at the Toowoomba Hospital, with a range of presentations in private practice, lecturing at university and conducting scientific research. In addition to psychology qualifications, Rebecca holds a Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Creative Arts (Honours).
Asha Honeysett (Psychologist) - Currently on leave
BPsyScHons, MPsych(Clin), MAPS
Asha has worked in tertiary education, not for profit organisations, government, and private settings. She is currently working in Medical Practices in the Toowoomba and surrounding area, and in private practice, servicing the Darling Downs community. She is passionate about primary prevention and early intervention. Asha is devoted to developing and delivering a range of workshops focused on optimising personal growth and psychological wellbeing. She a qualified Mental Health First Aid instructor and is available for travelling to rural locations. She enjoys working with organisations to assist in a healthy workplace culture and advancing skills for managing mental health presentations within the workplace.
Simone Fitzpatrick (Psychologist)
BSc (Psych), BPsyScHons, MSc Psychology & Neuroscience of Mental Health
Simone has worked with individuals across the lifespan in her roles as a Psychologist and Senior Psychologist at Queensland Health. Over more recent years, she has narrowed her focus to work with children and the developing brain, gaining experience with this young population through employment as a Senior Psychologist for the Child & Youth Mental Health Service and Child Development Service, and Psychologist at MindWare Psychology. Outside of the psychological domain, Simone has developed a Music & Movement programme for early childhood, based on the emerging fields of neuroscience and child development. Simone has completed a Master of Science in Psychology and Neuroscience of Mental Health from Kings College London, where she undertook a synoptic project on Executive Functioning and Social-Emotional Development in Preschool Children Born Very Preterm. She has a particular interest in brain-based techniques to support not only child and adolescent mental health but general childhood development, viewing these as interdependent areas for wellbeing.
Georgena Ryder (Psychologist)
BSc (Psych); BPsySc (Hons); Assoc MAPS
Georgena has worked in Toowoomba and the Western Downs Region supporting clients of all ages with diverse backgrounds. She has experience with individual and group therapies including DBT, CBT, and Schema Therapy, and is particularly passionate about trauma-informed care. Georgena is currently completing a PhD in which she explores different educational settings for neurodiverse students, their families, and educators. More broadly she is interested in understandings of difference, particularly for those with a label of autism, and has co-authored a book chapter about ASD and the importance of special interests. Prior to commencing her postgraduate studies Georgena gained experience as a Mental Health Recovery Worker and Residential Youth Worker. She also enjoyed coordinating camp-based enrichment programs for young people for a number of years. Georgena prioritises ongoing learning and innovative, evidence-based practice, and is about to enter the clinical registrar program.
Faye Shann (Psychologist)
BSc (Psych/Mgt&Leadership); BPsySc (Hons); MPsych (Clinical); MAPS
Faye is a registered psychologist and a clinical psychology registrar, having completed a Master of Clinical Psychology. Faye’s decision to become a psychologist came about from over 20 years working within charitable organisations and the State Government, where she gained insight into some of the challenges people face, particularly with relationships, parenting, blended families, and homelessness. Faye works with clients using Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and has experience working with both children and adults. Faye also has an interest in trauma and is trained in Eye-Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). Faye’s sensitive, warm, and empathic approach, and her passion to help create rich and meaningful lives, underly her success as a therapist.
Damian Vann (Clinical Psychologist)
BPsychSc(Hons), MPsych (Clin)
Damian is a registered psychologist with experience working with people across the lifespan. He is passionate about helping people overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, medically unexplained symptoms, and emotional distress. Damian is also experienced with and is passionate about supporting the LGBTIQAP+ community with their mental health and wellbeing. Damian primarily practices using Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). ISTDP is an evidence-based therapy which focuses on helping people connect with and experience feelings which have been suppressed or blocked because they are too frightening or painful. ISTDP focuses on helping us access and resolve these emotions so we can feel empowered, and no longer experience the anxiety and mechanisms that cause our distress. Damian also utilises cognitive behavioural and schema therapies. When working with children, Damian draws from attachment and cognitive behavioural therapies. Damian strives to provide a collaborative, warm, safe, and respectful space to help people develop, better understand themselves, and improve their wellbeing.
Kyna Godhani (Psychologist)
BA (Psych), G.Dip (Psych), MPsych (Clinical)
Kyna is a general psychologist and a clinical psychology registrar. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in India (2018) and a Master of Clinical Psychology in Australia (2022). She has experience working with children, adolescents and older adults in a wide variety of settings. Kyna works with a wide range of presentations. Her particular interests include anxiety and attachment related difficulties. She is fluent in English, Hindi and Sindhi. Kyna utilises a therapeutic style that is holistic, strength based, present focused and values the uniqueness of each individual and their journey. She enjoys connecting with people and helping them navigate various life changes and struggles. She uses a mix of evidence-based techniques, compassion and a touch of fun to deliver therapy that is suited to the client’s personality and needs.
Annie Jacob (Clinical Psychologist)
B.Sci (Psych), Post Grad Dip (Psych), MPsych (Clinical)
Annie is a registered psychologist with clinical endorsement who completed her masters degree in Clinical Psychology in Toowoomba. Through her masters and registrar program, Annie has gained extensive training in therapy and psychological assessment with individuals across the lifespan.
Annie is currently accepting new referrals for adults seeking therapy for a range of mental health challenges including anxiety and mood disorders, adjustment, trauma, and stress related disorders, and grief and loss. She uses different evidence based therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills based interventions with a focus on making sessions client-centred and creating a safe space where clients feel heard and understood, as well as challenged and encouraged to make change.
Annie was born and raised in Mumbai, India and speaks two other languages, Hindi and Malayalam. She is passionate about working with people towards helping them have a better understanding of their mental health and improve their wellbeing.
Marisca de Jager (Psychologist)
BPsychSc(HONS), PGradDipProfPsych, MClinPsychGE
Marisca is a registered psychologist and clinical psychologist registrar. She completed her undergraduate degree in psychology at the University of Queensland and spent much of her early career working with children, adolescents, and families as a school psychologist in an independent girls’ school in Brisbane. She also has experience in private practice, youth mental health services and university settings. In 2019, Marisca returned to Toowoomba with her young family to complete a Master of Clinical Psychology (Advanced Entry). Marisca retains a special interest in working with school-aged children and adults to provide precise assessments, clear and informative reports, and practical recommendations. Through her warm, inclusive, and strengths-focused approach, she aims to make the assessment process straightforward and validating. Her work in schools, both here and in the UK, has given Marisca direct experience with learning, pastoral and boarding issues, positive education, and parent engagement.
Marisca is currently accepting new referrals for cognitive, learning, functional, and diagnostic assessments
Julieanne Williams (Registered Psychologist - Provisional)
Ba (Psych), BPsych (Hons), MPsych (Professional Psychology)
Julieanne has recently obtained a Masters of Professional Psychology, and with over 10 years of experience in vocational rehabilitation and a background in child protection, Julieanne brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. We are excited she has joined us at Mindware Psychology to complete her final year in her Psychology training under the supervision of Veronica McKeon (Director/ Clinical Psychologist).
Julieanne is currently accepting new clients and is able to work across the life span with NDIS clients, Workcover clients, as well as private referrals. Julieanne is interested in furthering her skill development and delivery in interventions such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy and Emotional Freedom Techniques. Julieanne has current skills in workplace functional assessment and will continue to develop her assessment competency skills while here at Mindware.
Julieanne brings a mature and empathetic presence to therapy sessions, fostering a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their challenges and achieve personal growth. Committed to ongoing learning and professional development, Julieanne provides effective and compassionate care to individuals seeking support for their mental health and well-being.
Caitlin Owen (Psychologist)
BSc (Psych), PGDip (Psych), MPsych (Clin), MAPS
Caitlin is a registered psychologist and clinical psychology registrar and enjoys working with clients across the lifespan with a range of psychological conditions. Caitlin has a background in Defence, human resources, and allied health, which further enhances her holistic approach to wellness across both personal and professional spheres.
Caitlin completed her Master of Clinical Psychology with the University of Southern Queensland and employs a person-centered and strengths-based approach, using evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT). She creates a warm, supportive, and inclusive environment for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings, empowering them to achieve their personal and professional goals.
Catherine Pascoe (Clinical Psychologist)
BSc (Psych), BSc (Psych) Hons, MPsych (Clinical), MAPS
Catherine Pascoe is a highly experienced Clinical Psychologist with a special interest in neurodevelopmental, cognitive, memory, and learning assessments for children and adults. She also has a strong therapeutic focus on working with first responders, Australian Defence Force (ADF) members, veterans, and their families.
Throughout her career, Catherine has made significant contributions in both government and private practices, working with children, adolescents, and adults. Her extensive training includes Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprogramming (EMDR), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
Catherine uses her friendly and easy-going nature to connect with clients where they are, with the goal of helping them achieve their personal and therapeutic goals.
Scott Talbot (Clinical Psychologist)
Post Grad Dip (Psych), B Psy Sc (Hons), MPsych (Clin)
Scott has a deep passion for understanding human behaviour and cognition and considers learning about these aspects through his occupation an exceptional professional privilege. His interest in researching the links between mental health, sleep, diet, exercise, and physiological factors such as chronic pain aligns with a broad and interdisciplinary approach to understanding human well-being.
Scott’s professional practice encompasses a broad experience with conditions like depression, anxiety, and OCD. However, his commitment to evolving best practices for working with trauma and supporting individuals experiencing psychosis highlights his dedication to advancing his expertise in these areas.
Please note: Scott works with adult clients and his availability is currently one-half Saturday per fortnight and therefore new clients may be wait listed.
Christopher Wright (Psychologist)
B Sc (Psych), B Psy Sc (Hons), MPsych (Prof), Mpsych (Clin)
Christopher is a general psychologist and a clinical registrar that completed a Master of Clinical Psychology in 2023. Born and raised in Toowoomba, Christopher has a deep-rooted connection to the community he supports. His understanding of the values, challenges, and culture of the area allow him to offer personalised care to his clients. Utilising evidence- based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Christopher is dedicated to providing a flexible experience as needed in treatment. He is passionate in working with clients experiencing distress relating to neurodiversity, trauma, depression, anxiety, developmental, and identity. He strives to provide an empathic welcoming atmosphere for everybody, enhancing outcomes through helping clients to feel heard, understood and supported.
Nafisa Chowdhury (Psychologist)
BPsySc (Hons), MClinPsych
Nafisa is an experienced psychologist skilled in the following therapies: cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), and family therapy. Nafisa has worked across the lifespan, helping children, adults and older adults. Notably, Her experience lies in assisting children and teenagers dealing with anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), guiding them towards healthier coping mechanisms and enhanced resilience. Nafisa adopts a collaborative and empathetic approach, tailoring treatment plans to suit each individual’s and their family’s unique needs.
In addition to evidence-based treatment, Nafisa equips clients with essential life skills for navigating adolescence or adulthood and life’s challenges. Through compassionate guidance and skill-building exercises, she fosters self-awareness and empowerment, nurturing an environment where clients feel safe to explore their emotions and challenges. Her dedication to building resilience, authenticity, and meaningful connections empowers clients to lead fulfilling lives.
Emma Hyland (Clinical Psychologist)
Tiffany Wicks (Clinical Psychologist)
Patricia Torres Arauz (Psychologist)
B Sc (Psych), B Psy Sc (Hons), MPsych (Clin), MAPS
Patricia is a registered psychologist and a clinical psychology registrar. Patricia decided to make Toowoomba her home after completing her Masters of Clinical Psychology. With extensive experience working in diverse fields including Queensland Health and NGOs, she has provided support to clients of all ages and backgrounds. Her expertise includes treating clients with a wide range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, adjustment, and anger management. Patricia is passionate about utilising a client-centered approach, tailoring therapy to meet the individual needs of each person. She uses evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT). Patricia’s clients appreciate her warm, empathetic, and compassionate approach. She strives to provide a safe and supportive environment where her clients feel heard and understood.
Kristy Reece (Practice Manager)
Kristy has worked within a healthcare setting for over 25 years with a background in office administration and practice management. As a valued member of the MindWare team since 2016, Kristy passionately believes in our mission to provide the highest quality of client care and support in a compassionate environment.