Maria Cotton-Stapleton

Maria is a highly experienced psychologist with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families across schools, community services, and private practice. She has been registered as a psychologist since 1999 and has spent much of her career supporting young people with a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and developmental challenges. 

Maria is known for her calm, thoughtful approach. She takes the time to really understand each child and family, helping young people feel safe and supported, while also working closely with parents to make sense of what is happening and what will help.

She has extensive experience supporting children and adolescents with a range of presentations, including:

• Anxiety, low mood, and emotional regulation difficulties

• Trauma, attachment, and the impact of early life experiences

• ADHD, autism, and neurodevelopmental differences

• Learning challenges and school-based difficulties

• Behavioural challenges and complex presentations

• Social difficulties and peer relationships

• Family relationships and parenting support

• Grief, loss, and adjustment

• Identity development, including gender and sexuality

• Family violence and significant life stress

Her background in the Department of Education means she has a strong understanding of how difficulties can show up differently at home and at school, and how to support children across both settings.

Maria has also worked in child protection and community services, giving her a deep understanding of family systems, stress, and the impact of early experiences. She is particularly experienced in working with trauma and more complex or long-standing difficulties, and brings a steady, non-judgemental approach to this work.

Her approach is flexible and tailored to each child and family. She draws on a range of evidence-based therapies including CBT, trauma-informed approaches, ACT, mindfulness, DBT-informed strategies, and family-based work. She also incorporates a broader, relational understanding of each young person, taking into account their development, relationships, and life context.

Maria works closely with parents throughout the process, offering practical strategies and guidance so that progress continues outside of sessions.