A Mental Health Occupational Therapist (OT) is a health professional who helps individuals improve their mental health and well-being through practical, everyday activities. They use evidence-based techniques to support clients in managing their emotions, developing coping strategies, and enhancing their ability to perform daily tasks.

We offer a range of services including Mental Health Occupational Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-Education, Schema Informed Care, and Sensory-Based Interventions. For more details, visit our Services Page

You can book an appointment by visiting our Contact Page and filling out the contact form. We will get back to you to confirm your appointment.

Sensory Modulation refers to techniques that help individuals manage their responses to sensory input. These techniques can promote calmness, enhance safety, and reduce harm by helping individuals regulate their arousal levels and emotions.

Interoception is the sense of the internal state of the body. It involves the ability to recognize and interpret bodily sensations such as hunger, thirst, and emotional states. Improving interoceptive awareness can enhance emotional regulation and overall well-being.

Sensory Integration is the process by which the brain organises and interprets sensory information from the environment and the body. Effective sensory integration allows individuals to respond appropriately to sensory stimuli, enhancing daily functioning and emotional regulation.

The Window of Tolerance is a concept that describes the optimal arousal zone in which an individual can function effectively. It represents the range of emotional and physiological states within which a person can handle stress and respond to their environment in a balanced way.

The Arousal Curve is a model that illustrates how different levels of arousal (or alertness) affect performance. Moderate levels of arousal typically lead to optimal performance, while too little or too much arousal can impair functioning.

Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, explains how the autonomic nervous system regulates responses to stress and social engagement. It highlights the role of the vagus nerve in promoting safety, social connection, and physiological regulation.

Masking refers to the process of hiding one's true feelings or symptoms, often seen in individuals with neurodivergent conditions such as autism. It involves suppressing natural behaviours or expressions to fit into social norms, which can be mentally and emotionally exhausting.

Alexithymia is a condition characterised by difficulty in identifying and describing emotions. Individuals with alexithymia may struggle to recognize their own feelings and the feelings of others, impacting emotional regulation and social interactions.

DBT is a type of cognitive-behavioural therapy that focuses on teaching skills to manage emotions, cope with stress, and improve relationships. It is especially effective for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Complex PTSD (CPTSD), and other emotional regulation challenges.

CBT is a therapeutic approach that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours. It is effective for treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and other mental health conditions. We also offer Transgender Affirmative CBT

ACT is a type of therapy that encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty for them. It helps clients commit to making changes that align with their values and improve their quality of life.

Yes, as an OTA Mental Health Endorsed Occupational Therapist, Abby is able to provide services covered by Medicare. We also accept various insurance plans. Please contact us for more details about coverage and payment options.

We require at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. If you cancel within less than 24 hours or fail to show up for your appointment, you may be charged a cancellation fee.

Our business hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. If you need to reach us outside of these hours, please leave a message or email us, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Abby offers telehealth appointments to clients across Australia. Abby also sees clients face to face in North Fitzroy (Tuesdays) and Brunswick (Wednesdays).

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room. You can also reach out to crisis hotlines such as:

- Lifeline: 13 11 14

- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467

They Them Us does not provide crisis intervention services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent support, please contact one of the crisis services listed above or call emergency services.