Charlene Tan

Psychologist

Availability

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Location

Oakleigh

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Approach

My approach is person-centred, strengths-based, collaborative and neurodiversity-affirming.

I aim to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, understood and respected, while tailoring intervention to their individual needs, strengths, goals and circumstances.

I use an integrative approach and commonly draw upon Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), psychoeducation, emotion regulation and distress-tolerance strategies, and Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) principles.

I also consider the broader systems surrounding the client, including family, school, work, support networks and environmental factors, where relevant.

My overall approach focuses on developing practical and meaningful strategies that support emotional wellbeing, independence, participation and quality of life.

Area of focus
Anger & Emotion RegulationAssessment ServicesNeurodiversity (ADHD & ASD)Parenting & Family SupportStress / Adjustment & Life TransitionsYoung People’s Mental Health
Interest & experience

Charlene has over 15 years of experience working with children and young people, beginning her career in a trauma-informed residential care setting in Singapore before moving into Psychology and Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), where she has worked for the past six years.

Her areas of particular interest and experience include:

    • Autism (ASD), ADHD and neurodiversity
    • Trauma and trauma-informed care
    • Emotional regulation and distress tolerance
    • Anxiety, depression and selective mutism
    • Behaviours of concern and Positive Behaviour Support
    • Parenting, family and carer support
    • Psychological, cognitive and diagnostic assessments
    • Animal-Assisted Therapy (Dog-Assisted Therapy)
    • Grief and Loss
    • Workplace Challenges and Wellbeing
    • Couples Therapy
Qualifications and accreditations

Registration & Professional Practice

  • AHPRA Registered Psychologist
  • NDIS-registered Proficient Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) Practitioner

 

Academic Qualifications

  • Master of Professional Psychology
  • Master of Professional Psychology Practice
  • MSc Foundations of Clinical Psychology — Distinction
  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

 

Additional Training

  • Canine-Assisted Interaction & Therapy
  • Attachment-Focused Family Therapy
  • Trauma & Attachment
  • Key Word Sign
Background

Charlene has extensive experience supporting children and young people, including those experiencing trauma, neurodivergence, emotional regulation difficulties and behaviours of concern. Her background across psychology, trauma-informed care and Positive Behaviour Support informs a holistic approach that considers emotional wellbeing, behaviour, communication, sensory needs, relationships and the broader environment.

Charlene works collaboratively with clients, families and support networks, adapting therapy to each person’s communication style, strengths and individual needs. She has a particular interest in working with neurodivergent clients and brings a warm, approachable and non-judgmental style to her practice.

Originally from Singapore, Charlene also brings a culturally informed perspective to her work and an understanding of how culture, family values and expectations can influence mental health and engagement with psychological support. She speaks English and Mandarin and understands Cantonese.

Where appropriate, Charlene can also incorporate Dog-Assisted Therapy with her therapy dog, Daisy-Mae, to support engagement and emotional regulation within therapy.