ADHD

This free online network aims to bring together WA based multidisciplinary ADHD and Mental Health professionals in a quarterly online space to discuss principles of Neuroaffirmative Practice in the intersection of mental health and ADHD care. We work together as a community to create and maintain a professionally respectful space that is inclusive of neurological and professional differences to discuss, develop, and inform professional understanding and best practice principles of service delivery within MH and ADHD care. **All new members are encouraged to please complete the planning survey available in the network resources section.**

This network aims to bring together multidisciplinary practitioners from the region with an interest in ADHD. The quarterly meetings will provide a space for networking and peer support and will feature group discussions and presentations from guest speakers on a broad range of topics.

The NSW Neurodiversity-Affirming Network brings together mental health professionals working with neurodivergent clients, particularly those who are autistic, have ADHD, or both.

Our collaborative and welcoming meetings create space to explore the nuances of neurodivergent-affirming practice, adapt therapeutic approaches, and discuss how treatment may differ from standard interventions.

Meetings are online, held quarterly, and include guest speakers, case discussions, peer learning, and resource sharing, focused on enhancing skills and understanding to better support the wellbeing of neurodivergent people.

Join to connect with peers and receive invitations to future meetings.

Save the Dates

Please mark your calendar with the FY25-26 online meeting dates as follows:

• Wednesday 15 April 2026 | Understanding Capacity and Overwhelm in Neurodivergence
• Wednesday 17 June 2026 | ADHD and the Role of GPs in NSW

This network aims to support and develop the neurodiversity-affirming clinical practice skills of multidisciplinary mental health clinicians working with neurodivergent clients (e.g. Autistic, ADHD) across the lifespan. The network also aims to facilitate peer-support and connection for clinicians across Australia who may otherwise be isolated in their neuroaffirming work with clients.

Meet up with other clinical workers over dinner and have an opportunity after to split up in pairs to provide peer supervision.

Welcome Jeremy Shields as Co-Coordinator (effective in March 2025)!

Jeremy is a clinical psychologist working in private practice in Armidale, where he specialises in trauma-focused therapy. After moving here from Melbourne in mid-2023, he joined the local MHPN group straight away, and it’s been an invaluable way to connect with colleagues, share knowledge, and feel part of a professional community. The group has helped him settle into his work here, and he never feels like he's practicing in isolation, despite running his own practice.

Taking on the coordinator role is his way of giving back to a network that has been so welcoming and beneficial. He is looking forward to continuing the great work of the group—supporting each other, learning together, and fostering a strong local mental health community.

Save the Dates

Please mark your calendar with the meeting dates and topics for 2026 (all Thursdays at 6pm AEST).

06 August 2026                     Supporting victims of coercive control (group discussion) — Deborah Banks

17 September 2026               Practitioner self-care (experiential session) — Sarah Yassine and Vanessa De Sauty

29 October 2026                   Updated ADHD guidelines and assessment implications — Sarah Sheratt

10 December 2026                Christmas party — Santa

This network unites GPs and non-psychiatrist mental health professionals for a safe, interactive and collaborative open forum where you can ask practical questions about day-to-day work with patients experiencing mental health issues. Sessions focus on real-time advice, evidence-informed guidance, and clear management options. The style is honest, inclusive, collegial and vibrant, with direct Q&A and concise teaching points. The Network aims to strengthen collaborative care and clinician confidence in responding to mental health presentations. Meetings are held virtually via webinar every two months, ensuring accessible and timely support for practitioners.

The network meets bi-monthly and provides access to guest speakers and case-based discussions.

Join the network to be added to the mailing list and receive invitations to future meetings.

Network Coordinator:

Dr Steven Chau | MBBS BA MPSYCH FRANZCP (FADLP)

Dr Steven Chau is a senior consultant psychiatrist and Director of Melbourne Mental Health with over a decade of experience in private practice. He is passionate about improving public mental health literacy and sincerely believes in a collaborative biopsychosocial framework of care. He practises with open and honest communication with patients and referrers. Dr Chau’s areas of expertise include sports psychiatry, mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD and addiction.

Save the Dates:

Please mark your calendar with the FY26-27 online meeting dates, held from 6-7:30pm (NSW/VIC time).

Tuesday 28 July 2026 | Network Launch