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

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

Mikaylee Gowdy

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

Mikaylee Gowdy

I am a psychologist who values creating a respectful, and inclusive space for all my clients where people can feel safe, even when exploring deeply personal experiences. I take a relaxed approach to therapy focusing on connection and validation while drawing on evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Experiential Therapies.

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

Mikaylee Gowdy
I am a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with adults and adolescents facing mental health challenges including: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adjustment to major life changes, stress, trauma, and chronic health conditions.

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.

Amy Bartolacci

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.