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The Bridge Psychology

 

Ivanna Cox

Empowering individuals across the lifespan
Providing psychological services to children, adolescents, and adults seeking diagnostic assessment and therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder/Condition (ASD/ASC) and/or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
The Bridge Psychology practice was founded by Ivanna Cox in 2012. Ivanna provides therapeutic support for Autism Spectrum Disorder/Condition (ASD/ASC/autism) and/or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)—with recognition of the Unique Female or Internalising Profile.

Ivanna specialise in the assessment and treatment of autism and the common co-occurring conditions, and support clients with a wide range of neurodevelopmental, emotional, and behavioural needs. I provide tailored, neurodiversity-affirming therapy using a collaborative approach with individuals, couples, parents, and families.

In addition to her clinical work, she has shared her research nationally and internationally, presenting at conferences such as AMAZE, ASfAR, and INSAR. Ivanna is passionate about supporting clients to gain self-understanding, manage emotions, and build skills for lifelong wellbeing.

From early childhood through adolescence, adulthood, and into later life, I recognise the evolving challenges and strengths that come with neurodivergent experiences and offer informed, compassionate, and tailored support.

Autistic Females and Internalising Individuals 

Many autistic females and autistic individuals with an internalising presentation mask their challenges, internalise distress, or have been misdiagnosed for years. The aim is to change that narrative. In this respect, my approach centres on recognising and validating the lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals, particularly with internalising features, honouring the strengths and struggles that may be hidden beneath the surface.

Whether you're a child, teen, adult, or parent navigating key transitions, social dynamics, emotional regulation, executive functioning challenges, sensory sensitivities, or seeking answers, my goal is to provide a safe, inclusive space where identity is respected, and neurodiversity is embraced, and each person’s unique perspective is valued. 

  • through therapy,
  • assessments, and practical skill-building,
  • clients and families are supported in achieving meaningful goals,
  • enhancing authentic self-expression,
  • emotional well-being,
  • executive function,
  • and lifelong resilience with confidence and clarity.

ASD/ASC (autism)/ADHD Assessments and Co-occurring conditions

  • Children
  • Adolescents
  • Adults seeking a first-time diagnosis or re-evaluation

Adaptive Behaviour Assessment

An adaptive behaviour assessment is an essential component of assessments for autism/ADHD and/or intellectual disability (ID) because it provides critical information that IQ tests alone cannot capture. Adaptive behaviour refers to the practical, everyday skills needed to function and meet environmental demands, including:

  • Conceptual skills (e.g., language, reading, money, time, number concepts)
  • Social skills (e.g., interpersonal skills, responsibility, self-esteem, rule- following)
  • Practical skills (e.g., self-care, safety, daily living, work skills)

Cognitive and Educational Assessments

Cognitive assessments are important to:

  • Understand thinking strengths and weaknesses
  • Assess for Intellectual Disability
  • Explore uneven cognitive profiles (common in autism and ADHD)
  • Differentiate between developmental delay vs. learning disorder vs. attention-related issues
  • Inform interventions, accommodations, or school supports.

Educational assessment is useful to:

  • Identify specific learning disorders (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia)
  • Determine if academic performance matches cognitive potential Inform tailored educational plans or Individualised Learning Plans (ILPs)
  • Support applications for funding, school accommodations, or exam adjustments.

Counselling & Therapy for Neurodivergent Individuals

Individual Therapy for neurodivergence and co-occurring conditions. Therapy can help neurodivergent individuals navigate everyday challenges, manage emotional well-being, and build on their strengths. My therapeutic approach is respectful, collaborative, and adapted to each client’s needs and communication style. Therapy areas include:

  • Emotion understanding, expression, and regulation
  • Social communication
  • Social skills
  • Self-esteem and identity
  • Executive functioning (organisation, time management, focus, etc.)
  • Coping with sensory sensitivities
  • Navigating relationships or life transitions
  • Personal growth

For Parents, Partners, and Families of Neurodivergent Individuals

Therapy offers tailored support relevant to your experience and circumstances as a parent, partner, or relative of a neurodivergent individual. The aim is to add insight, provide guidance, and practical strategies to strengthen relationships, overcome challenges, and optimise desired outcomes and quality of life for all parties.

  • Referrals to allied health services

School or Employment support

  • School observation visits
  • Reviewing Individual Education Plans (ILPs)
  • Care Team Meetings with school staff
  • Professional development for staff
  • Reports and recommendations for primary, secondary and tertiary education accommodations
  • Workplace adjustments and accommodations

Presentations

(based on request)