Psychology
Psychologists help people to manage many common issues, such as stress, anger, anxiety, sleeping difficulties, depression, learning difficulties, family communication, behaviour problems, and developmental disorders.
Clinical Psychologists also have specialist training in the diagnosis and treatment of complex mental health problems such as major depressive disorder, severe anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and personality disorders.
New Ability Health provides diagnostic assessment and treatment for a wide range of mental health, developmental and learning difficulties including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Intellectual Disability, Learning Difficulties, and Mental Health disorders
Please see our Psychology Assessments section for more details on our diagnostic assessments, or read below to find out about our treatment services.
At New Ability Health our psychologists are all fully qualified with many years of experience.
Taking charge of your mental health can be a big step. At New Ability Health we can help you work out where to start, and support you through your journey.
Our Psychologists
Dr Stephen Hirneth
Clinical Psychologist
PhD, MPsyc (Clin), BA(Psyc)(Hons) MAPS FCCLP
Dr Stephen's books are currently closed to all new clients.
Dr Steve is a clinical psychologist with over 20 years’ experience working with adults, children and teenagers, treating a wide range of issues, from common life stressors through to severe mental illness. Stephen has worked across a range of mental health settings, including hospitals, community health centres and private practices.
Stephen has extensive experience working with children and adolescents, having worked for over 10 years for local Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, treating young people with severe and complex mental health disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, anxiety disorders, attachment disorders and pervasive developmental disorders.
Stephen has also worked extensively with adults, working for many years in private psychology practices in the area. Stephen has a particular interest in anxiety disorders, depression and bipolar disorders. Stephen is trained in a range of psychological therapy techniques, including cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT).
Stephen is a Psychology Board of Australia accredited supervisor for all forms of supervision in psychology. Stephen is well-recognised in the Newcastle area, providing supervision to other psychologists, lecturing and teaching postgraduate students, and providing clinical leadership to staff across a range of services.
Stephen has also held several leadership and senior management roles in local psychology services, and can provide coaching / mentoring for other professionals aiming to develop their efficiency and effectiveness.
Stephen has a keen research interest, particularly in the area of bipolar disorder, and has published a number of research studies in this field, funded by national research grant schemes. Stephen is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) College of Clinical Psychologists and was an invited reviewer for the recent APS publication “Evidence-Based Psychological Interventions in the Treatment of Mental Disorders”.
Dr. Madeleine deVille
Clinical Psychologist
DClinPsyc, B(Psyc)(Hons)
Dr. Madeleine deVille is a compassionate and highly experienced clinical psychologist dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s challenges. With a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (2008) and nearly two decades of experience across public and private mental health settings, research, and clinical supervision, she brings a wealth of expertise to her work with both children and adults. Maddie provides therapy in individual, family, and group settings, tailoring her approach to each client’s unique needs.
Maddie has a special interest in anxiety, depression, and complex trauma, offering evidence-based therapy grounded in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. She has worked extensively with a range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, psychosis, OCD, and childhood developmental disorders. As a board-approved supervisor, she is also passionate about mentoring and training the next generation of psychologists.
Dr. deVille is available for appointments on Tuesdays. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys raising her two children, doting on her beloved cats, spending quality time with family and friends—and indulging in the occasional bit of trashy TV! To book an appointment, call 02 4926 9813 or email reception@newabilityhealth.com.au.
Grace Davies
Clinical Psychologist
MPsyc (Clin), BA(PsycSci)(Hons)
Grace is a clinical psychologist with experience in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a range of mental health disorders across the lifespan. Grace works with adults, youth, children and families. She takes a person-centred approach to her work, using evidence-based techniques to treat a range of mental health concerns. Grace delivers individualised treatment guided by cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) and schema therapy.
Grace has experience working in private practice, an inpatient hospital and a community mental health centre. She works with clients presenting with difficulties such as anxiety, depression, work stress, personality disorders, addictions and post-traumatic stress disorder. Grace delivers neuro-affirming care in the assessment and treatment of neurodivergent conditions such as autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Grace has a passion for research and evidence-based practice, with a background working in psycho-oncology research. Grace’s master’s research project was centred on the help-seeking intentions of young people living in families impacted by mental illness. Grace has now published up to 16 research papers in leading psychology and medical journals.
Grace works from Monday - Friday at New Ability Health. If you would like to book an appointment with Grace, call 02 4926 9813 or email reception@newabilityhealth.com.au.
Jarrod Hayes
Clinical Psychologist
MPsyc (Clin), BPsyc (Hons)
Jarrod's books are currently closed to all new clients.
Jarrod is a Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about providing client-centred evidence-based psychological therapy.
Jarrod has 3 years’ experience working at an inpatient and outpatient private mental health hospital. In this setting Jarrod has worked with clients across the lifespan experiencing difficulties with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, complex trauma, addiction, bipolar disorders, personality disorders and other mental health concerns. Jarrod also facilitates Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy outpatient groups. Jarrod has previous experience in a private practice setting engaging children and
adolescents in psychological therapy and assessments.
Jarrod utilises a wide range of psychological interventions including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Motivational Interviewing. Jarrod has a growing interest in the treatment trauma, attachment difficulties and working with veterans.
When not at work Jarrod enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing cricket, making music, and cuddling his fur babies.
Jasmine Abbott
Registered Psychologist
BPsyc, Assoc MAPS
Jasmine is a registered psychologist with over 9 years of mental health experience, working as a mental health support worker and now a psychologist. She is passionate about assisting people of all ages to recognise their strengths and cope better with life’s challenges.
Jasmine can assess and diagnose intellectual disabilities, specific learning disorders (e.g. dyslexia) ADHD, Autism, plus more. Jasmine can help with a range of mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, complex trauma, and neurodevelopmental conditions including ADHD and Autism.
Jasmine takes an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing on a range of evidence-based techniques to suit the individual, including cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), schema therapy, and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). She has an interest in somatic therapies including eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
When not at work Jasmine enjoys travelling, being in nature, patting dogs, making music, and spending time with friends and family. Jasmine is of New Zealand Māori heritage and is a part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Jasmine works from Tuesday - Thursday at New Ability Health. If you would like to book an appointment with Jasmine, call 02 4926 9813 or email reception@newabilityhealth.com.au.
Daniel Clenton
Provisional Psychologist
BPsych (Hons), Assoc MAPS.
Daniel is a provisionally registered psychologist dedicated to supporting individuals across the lifespan. His approach is warm, collaborative, and client-centered, drawing on evidence-based practices to help clients tap into their inherent strengths.
By fostering insight, developing practical coping strategies, and reducing distress, Daniel empowers clients to navigate life’s challenges with confidence. His key areas of clinical interest include depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationships. Currently, he is furthering his expertise by completing a Master of Professional Psychology at the University of Newcastle.
Daniel brings a diverse professional background to his practice. Most recently, he worked in Employment Services, where he supported young adults in overcoming personal and systemic barriers to securing and maintaining employment. Prior to that, he worked with school students, providing guidance and support to enhance their learning and mental well-being. One of his core passions is helping young adults and their families navigate life’s transitional stages with resilience and clarity.
In addition to his psychology work, Daniel will also be offering support and psychosocial recovery coaching, assisting clients in building independence, developing life skills, and working towards their personal goals in a meaningful way.
Daniel is available for appointments at New Ability Health every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. To book an appointment call 02 4926 9813 or email reception@newabilityhealth.com.au.
Psychology services available
Psychology Services are available for the following issues
Mental Health Support
Our psychologists provide expert assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions and psychological concerns in children, adolescents, and adults. Support is tailored to individual needs and may include short-term, solution-focused therapy or long-term psychotherapy.
Areas of Expertise Include:
- Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder
- Trauma and PTSD
- OCD
- Self-harm behaviours
- Drug and alcohol misuse
- Eating disorders
- Emotional regulation, overthinking, and general stress
- Anger management and relaxation strategies
- Grief, loss, and life transitions
- Low self-esteem, confidence, and assertiveness
- Social anxiety, shyness, and sleep issues
- School-related concerns, bullying, and behavioural difficulties
- Autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties (including IQ assessments)
- School readiness and separation anxiety
- Work-related stress and burnout
- Psychology supervision and professional development
- Leadership and organisational coaching
Fees & Rebates - Psychology
Fees
- Clinical Psychologist: $245 per session
- Registered Psychologist: $200 per session
- Provisional Psychologist: $100 per session
Fees for assessments, supervision, and coaching vary. Payment can be made via cash, direct deposit, credit, or debit card.
Medicare Rebates
With a Mental Health Treatment Plan (referral from a GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician), you may be eligible for Medicare rebates:
- Clinical Psychology: $141.85
- Registered Psychology: $96.65
(No rebates available for provisional psychology.)
You can claim up to 10 sessions per calendar year (6 initially, plus 4 after GP review). A gap fee applies. Rebates are processed on the day.
Private Health Insurance
Our psychologists are registered with most major health funds. Please check your eligibility directly with your provider. HICAPS is not available; claims must be submitted independently.
WorkCover & Insurance
We are registered with WorkCover Australia. If approved, assessment, treatment, and reports are covered by insurers with a GP referral.
NDIS
We are a registered NDIS provider. Please complete our NDIS Participant Intake Form and email referrals to: reception@newabilityhealth.com.au.
Additional information for Clients
What to expect when I see a Psychologist
Pre-Appointment Forms
Please arrive 10 minutes early to complete consent and mental health questionnaires. These forms also confirm whether we may communicate with your GP or other professionals.
First Appointment
Your initial session will involve discussing your concerns, reviewing your mental health, and developing a personalised treatment plan with initial goals.
GP Reports
With your consent, we will send a summary of your assessment and treatment plan to your referring doctor after your first session.
Diagnostic Assessments
If attending for a diagnostic assessment, we will discuss the number of sessions required and associated costs beforehand.
Other Reports
We do not provide independent medico-legal or forensic psychological assessments. However, we can offer treatment-related letters (e.g., for schools or Centrelink) for existing clients. These requests are billed at the psychologist’s standard hourly rate.