FOUNDER
The Grassroots Clinic was established in 2020 by Clinical Psychologist, Jessica Doak. Jess completed her Masters’ in Clinical Psychology at the University of the Sunshine Coast in 2018, and has since worked in various roles within public and private sectors, involving therapeutic intervention for children, teens, and older adults, and neuropsychological assessment. Jess was employed by University of the Sunshine Coast and Griffith University in various research, assessment, clinical, and academic capacities, and was a research consultant at the Mind and Neuroscience Thompson Institute. Jess is currently completing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in psychology through the University of Tasmania.
Jessica Doak
She/Her
Clinical
Psychologist
PhD Candidate
B.Psych (Hons)
MPsych(Clin)
MACPA
MAPS
Areas of interest:
- Psychological & Complex Neruocognitive Assessment
- Chronic mental health, neurodegenerative, and developmental conditions
(e.g. ADHD, FASD, Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia, Dementia related illnesses)
- Psychological Research
Jess has always had an interest in psychological assessment, and enjoys working with people to help them to better understand the neuropsychological drivers of their behaviours and emotions, and how they can use their unique ways of thinking to live their best life. Jess has an authentic relational approach, and he works with people across the lifespan. Her therapy toolkit comprises of evidence-based and best practice modalities which generally includes cognitive-behavioural, trauma-informed, and acceptance and mindfulness frameworks. Where appropriate, Jess incorporates into therapy the natural environment, art and creative modes, animals, and somatic practices.
EXTRA INFO
- Australian Psychological Society (APS) full member
- Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA) full member
- AHPRA Board Approved Supervisor
- AHPRA Registrar Program Principal Supervisor
- Trained in the diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD): www.fasdhub.org.au
- Certified PuP (Parents Under Pressure) therapist: www.pupprogram.net.au
- Trained in Behavioural Analysis and Intervention (Institute for Applied Behaviour Analysis): www.iaba.com
- Trained in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy with the Australian EP Institute: www.equinepsychotherapy.net.au
- Completed Clinical Therapy Dog and Handler training with Therapy Dogs Australia: www.therapydog.com.au
- Completed the Blueknot Foundation's Three Phased Approach to working with complex trauma: https://blueknot.org.au/
- Completed EMDR basic training: https://www.emdr.com.au/
PEER REVIEWED PUBLICATIONS
- Dawe et al. (2023). An investigation of the utility of the Australian Guide to the Diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder in young children. Alcohol: Clinical and Experimental Research. doi:10.1111/acer.15012
- Doak, J., & Katsikitis, M. (2018). Terrorism catastrophization: An investigation of predicting and moderating factors. Journal of Theoretical Social Psychology, 2(1), 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1002/jts5.13
- Doak, J., Katsikitis, M., Webster, H., & Wood, A. (2019). A fetal alcohol spectrum disorder diagnostic service and beyond: Outcomes for families. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 93, 103428. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2019.103428
- Webster, H., Doak, J., & Katzikitis, M. (2020). Community-based Child Development Service Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Assessment: A Retrospective Clinic Audit. Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health. doi:10.1111/jpc.14744
CONTRACTOR
Bronwyn
Gorringe
She/They
Social Worker
BSocWk
MGest
AASW
Bron has a decade of professional experience as a Social Worker, registered with Australian Association of Social Workers. Bron has worked in various clinical and therapeutic settings, including public mental health as well a not-for-profit organisations. Bron brings a diverse range of skills to her therapeutic work, having completed a bachelor degree in social work, a masters degree in Gestalt therapy, and is currently completing a masters degree in Sexology. Bron has also completed facilitator training through the Equine Psychotherapy Institute. Bron works from a trauma-informed and holistic lens, recognising the impacts of social systems, relationships, as well as a person's whole nervous system (mind, body, and unconscious). Bron engages with authentic curiosity from a person-centred approach, offering genuine person-centred therapy and support, and incorporates somatic practices where appropriate. Bron is also neurodivergent, gender, sexuality affirming, and radically advocates for equality for all. Bron facilitates sessions via telehealth only, and can see private paying or NDIS self or plan managed clients.
Areas of interest:
- Adult mental health
- Complex or developmental trauma
- Sexual and domestic abuse
- Couples relationships
- Adult ADHD and neurodivergence
EXTRA INFO
- Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) full member
- Trained in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy with the Australian EP Institute: www.equinepsychotherapy.net.au
ADMINISTRATION
Grassroots is supported administratively by Autum. Autum is a highly experienced administration professional who has a wealth of knowledge, paired with her kind nature, systems thinking, and attention to detail. Autum understands and respects clients' needs for privacy and compassion, and is happy to assist with all enquiries from navigating the intake process, assisting with referral requests, billing, to booking and rescheduling appointments.
ANIMALS
Vibe is a vibrant blue Betta fish (aka fighting fish). Vibe enjoys making bubble nests, and soaking up the warmth from the nearby salt lamp. Vibe also has the company of a few snails which, depending on his mood on the day, he either hangs out with or works hard at keeping them from eating his food. Vibe helps with activities such as mindfulness and grounding, and for most people is helpful in regulating or calming their nervous systems through neuroception.
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Moose is a beautiful, and BIG, male Bullmastiff. Moose has undergone specific training, and is approved by Therapy Dogs Australia to be included in therapy sessions with adolescents and adults. His favourite activities are probably sleeping, and playing with other dogs. Moose only attends the clinic occasionally, however, if Moose is ever included in your session this will be discussed with you prior, and there will be certain rules you will need to adhere to on how to interact with Moose.
Koda and George are Australian Quarter Horses. They are sometimes included in therapy sessions that are conducted outdoors. Koda has healthy boundaries and is very clear with them. George's boundaries are smaller, however he still has a healthy level of communication of his needs. George is the more mischievous of the two. If they are ever included in your session this will be discussed with you prior, and there will be certain rules you will need to adhere to on how to interact with them.
Nudge, River-Phoenix, and Luna are Australian Minatare Goats. They are sometimes included in therapy sessions that are conducted outdoors. All three have very different personalities and different ways of engaging. But all three love playing in different ways, as well as a midday nap.
If you attend therapy that is held outdoors, you will likely be exposed to many different species of wildlife such a birds, insects, hares, kangaroos, and of course, horses. While some of these interactions will happen by chance (e.g., witnessing a wild animal), at all times, you will be expected to be respectful of any animals' boundaries and needs, and to ensure your own and the animals' safety.