Support for
School refusal is rarely about school alone. Therapy for the whole picture.
Psychological support for children and adolescents struggling to attend school — and the parents and carers walking alongside them.
Key information you should know
- School refusal is usually a sign that something underneath is overwhelming — anxiety, neurodivergence, bullying, trauma, or family stress.
- Early support significantly improves outcomes — the longer avoidance continues, the harder return becomes.
- We work with the child, the parents, and (where helpful) the school — because lasting change usually needs everyone on board.
Signs you might benefit from school refusal support
- Persistent distress on school mornings — tears, tummy aches, headaches, meltdowns
- Increasing absenteeism, late starts, or leaving early
- Refusal to discuss school or visible anxiety when it's mentioned
- Sleep changes — bedtime resistance, broken sleep, exhaustion that doesn't lift
- Withdrawal from friends or activities they used to enjoy
- Reports of bullying, social difficulties, or feeling 'different' from peers
- A pattern that's worsening rather than easing with time
How therapy can help with school refusal
School refusal is distressing for children and families. Anxiety, bullying, learning difficulties, autism, family stress, or school environment factors can all play a part.
Therapy often involves parents and schools where appropriate, with gradual exposure plans and skills for anxiety. Early intervention usually improves attendance and reduces conflict at home.
Psychologists who support school refusal
3 psychologists with experience in school refusal.
Accepting new clientsBook with BeauDr Beau Gamble
Psychologist & Clinic Manager
Beau is a warm, thoughtful, and experienced psychologist. He brings genuine curiosity to the people he works with, and takes a patient, collaborative approach to therapy.
Works from Succoris Joondalup
Accepting new clientsBook with MaiaraMaiara Kunzler
Psychologist
Maiara is passionate about creating a safe, warm, and collaborative space where clients feel supported, respected, and empowered throughout the therapeutic process.
2 clinics
Accepting new clientsBook with MelanieMelanie Shannon
Child & Adolescent Psychologist
Melanie is a child and adolescent psychologist specialising in early intervention. With experience across schools, hospitals, multidisciplinary teams, and private practice, she enjoys working collaboratively with children, their families, and the wider network of care.
Works from Succoris Bendigo
Prefer to reach out directly? We're happy to help.