Welcome To
Thinking Otter Psychology
Supporting the Growth and Development of Children and Adolescents
Who We Are
My name is Dasha Malamanova, and I am a registered psychologist who is passionate about helping young minds thrive. In addition to my work in private practice, I work within the Paediatric Services Team at a large Public Hospital. I provide comprehensive developmental assessments and evidence-based interventions tailored for unique needs of children and adolescents. I understand that no two journeys are the same and work collaboratively with families to create practical and effective solutions. With a deep respect for diversity, I ensure my approach is inclusive, culturally sensitive, and reflective of each family’s unique values and experiences. I strive to foster a compassionate environment that helps clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Otter's Mission
Thinking Otter Psychology is a supportive practice dedicated to empowering children, adolescents, and families. Our mission is to help clients uncover their strengths, foster resilience, and navigate developmental, emotional, and behavioral challenges with confidence and self-compassion.
Key Services
Psycho-educational Assessments
- Cognitive Functioning (IQ)
- Academic Functioning
- Emotional Functioning
Developmental Assessments
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Developmental Delays/Intellectual Disability
- Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)
Therapy
- Anxiety (e.g. separation anxiety, social anxiety)
- Depression and Sadness
- Emotional and Behavioural challenges (e.g. excessive anger and frustration)
- Low Self-Esteem and Confidence
- School Can't - Understanding School Refusal
Parenting Support - helping parents navigate
- Challenging Behaviours
- Emotional Difficulties
- Challenges with Confidence
- Building Resilience
FAQ
Sessions are typically 50 minutes long, but I may adjust the duration based on your needs and circumstances.
Assessments are tailored to the specific needs of each client. The process typically includes:
- Intake Session (60 minutes) – A comprehensive discussion to understand concerns, background, and goals for the assessment.
- Testing Sessions (1 to 3 sessions, 60–120 minutes each) – Standardized assessments are conducted based on the client’s needs.
- Additional Information Gathering – Depending on the assessment type, this may include questionnaires, teacher interviews, or collateral reports.
- Feedback Session (60 minutes) – A detailed discussion of assessment findings, including diagnoses (if applicable), strengths, challenges, and recommendations.
- Comprehensive Report – A written report summarizing the results, insights, and tailored recommendations for interventions or support.
This structured approach ensures that each client receives a thorough evaluation with meaningful recommendations.
Payment is required on the day of your appointment. We accept bank transfer, and credit/debit card. Please note that cash and cheques are not accepted.
Therapy:
Standard 50-minute client-facing consultation costs $220.
Assessments:
Standard Cognitive Assessments cost $1050.
Academic Achievement Assessment costs $1300.
Learning Difficulties Assessment (Cognitive & Academic Achievement tests):
- Dyscalculia (Maths) costs $1600.
- Dyslexia (Reading)/Dysgraphia (Writing) costs $1800.
Comprehensive Psycho-Educational Assessment (e.g. Learning Strengths and Difficulties and Social-Emotional Well-being) costs from $2100.
Developmental Assessments cost from $1400.
Comprehensive developmental assessments cost from $2600.
Additional Consultations (e.g. additional feedback session) cost $200.
To receive a Medicare rebate for treatment, you will need a referral and a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) from your GP. The referral should indicate the number of approved sessions. Under the Australian Government's Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative, you may be eligible for up to 10 therapy sessions per calendar year with a partial rebate of $96.65 per session.
- The full session fee is charged at the time of consultation.
- The Medicare rebate will be processed on the same day.
- If you require additional sessions beyond the 10 covered by Medicare, private fees will apply unless alternative funding is available (e.g., NDIS, private health insurance).
If you have any questions about Medicare rebates or funding options, feel free to ask before your appointment.
Thinking Otter Psychology is not a registered NDIS provider.
Self-managed and Plan-managed NDIS participants are able to access Otter's services. However, assessments may not be covered by NDIS. Please ensure to check with your NDIS provider.
We understand that unexpected circumstances can arise. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please provide at least 48 hours' notice to avoid cancellation fees.
- Cancellations with less than 48 hours’ notice will incur a fee of 50% of the service fee.
- Failure to attend (no-show) will result in a charge of 100% of the service fee.
These policies help ensure that appointment times are available for all clients who need them. If you have any questions or need to reschedule, please reach out as soon as possible.
To book an appointment, please call or email Thinking Otter Psychology.
Contact Us
Thinking Otter Psychology
93 Cocoa Jackson Lane, Brunswick East, Victoria 3057, Australia
Email: info@thinkingotter.com.au Phone: +61412 007 748 Consulting: Saturdays (Face-to-Face) Wednesdays (Online)
Crisis Support
Thinking Otter Psychology does not provide crisis support services.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency, please contact:
📞 Emergency Services: 000 (for immediate danger or life-threatening situations)
📞 Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
📞 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 (mental health support)
📞 Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 (24/7 support for a range of concerns)
📞 Headspace: 1800 650 890 (support and counselling)
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