Our Psychologists
Learn about Gearing Up Psychology, a trusted team of Maitland psychologists providing evidence-based mental health care. We are compassionate, professional, and offer community-focused support.
Chris Brown
Hi, I’m Chris. I am the director of Gearing Up Psychology and have extensive experience in adopting strength based Psychological practices in the following areas:
– Psychological Assessment and treatment for people with symptoms of a Mental Illness
– Neurodiversity affirming assessment and support
– Neuropsychological assessment
– Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
– Mindfulness integrated CBT (MiCBT)
– Psychological Assessment and Intervention for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability
– The Criminal Justice System
– Motivational Interviewing
– Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
– Assessment and Therapy for Individuals with a Personality Disorder
– Running of drumming groups
Mikaylee Gowdy
Hi, I’m Mikaylee. I have experience working with children and young persons with a range of presentations and enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to achieve their goals. I am passionate about providing trauma informed, neurodiversity affirming support and utilise a strengths based, person centred therapeutic approach. I am also interested in working with adults experiencing anxiety and depression.
When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time reading, watching true crime documentaries, and listening to live music.
Brooke Gelder
I am a psychologist with 15 years of experience in mental health, primarily in private hospital settings. I work with adults facing a wide range of concerns, with particular experience in depression, anxiety, substance abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and trauma.
As a therapist, I strive to create a warm and approachable environment where you feel heard and understood. I take the time to get to know you and your goals, and together, we determine a therapeutic approach that best suits your needs.
I am trained in several evidence-based approaches, including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am available for appointments on Tuesdays and look forward to supporting you on your journey.
Morgan Banks
I’m passionate about helping my clients and their families engage in safer, healthier relationships and supporting clients who have experienced trauma.
I also welcome clients with more complex or non-traditional presentations, and I’m committed to working with those who may not always feel comfortable in typical therapeutic settings.
If you’re looking for a space to be heard, understood, and supported without judgment – I’m here to help
Kirsten Copas
I provide an authentic, collaborative space, working alongside you as you reach your goals. I draw on evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I aim to ensure you feel supported, while you build insight and move towards meaningful change.
Beatrix Napier
I’m a registered psychologist with AHPRA, and I take a relationship-based approach to therapy, focusing on helping individuals build a life that feels meaningful and worth living. I work with children (aged 7 and up), young people, adults, and families across a wide range of mental health presentations.
I offer psychological therapy for those experiencing anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as for children with learning and behavioural difficulties and neurodevelopmental conditions such as ASD and ADHD. I also support people navigating work stress, relationship challenges, grief, and loss.
My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, and I tailor each therapeutic experience to suit the unique needs of the individual. Depending on what’s most helpful, I draw from a range of modalities including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Schema Therapy.
Amy Bartolacci
Hi, I’m Amy. I am a registered psychologist with experience working with children, adolescents and adults across a wide range of presentations. I offer both therapy and assessment, including cognitive, ADHD and specific learning disorder assessments.
I draw on evidence-based approaches and enjoy supporting clients to develop practical strategies they can use in everyday life. My style is warm, client-centred and affirming, with a focus on helping people feel safe, understood and empowered to work toward their goals.
When I’m not at work, I love food, sunshine and bright colours. I enjoy reading, cooking and building Lego, and I have a keen appreciation for art, architecture and design.
