About
Our WHY
Holistic mental and allied health services for adults, children and adolescents.
Mind Matters Cairns is private allied health practice located in Manunda. We provide a range of mental and allied health services for men, women, children and adolescents.
We are an integrative practice which means we understand the importance of a holistic approach to wellbeing. As a result, in addition to offering traditional psychotherapies, we proudly specialise in Neurofeedback Therapy, Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation, Light and Sound Therapy, Auditory Training Program and EEG Assessments and Occupational Therapy services.
Mind Matters Cairns was opened in 2010. Our vision has been to provide quality, individually tailored mental and allied health services in an environment that is comfortable, professional, supportive and confidential. We understand the importance of working with the individual and the systems around them (family, work, school, medical professionals) so we encourage a collaborative approach to ensure that everyone is working together to optimise your holistic wellbeing.
Compassion
We prioritise compassion and empathy in our interactions with every individual, recognising the intrinsic worth of all living beings.
Commitment to Quality
We are dedicated to providing high-quality individualised mental health and allied health services that positively impact not only our clients specific needs but also the needs of broader community.
Integrity and Transparency
We uphold the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and transparency in all our actions and communications.
Holistic Interconnection
We recognize the deep interconnection between mind, body, relationships, and the community. Guided by this understanding, we support our clients in making healthy lifestyle choices because we believe that a healthy mind is essential for overall well-being.
Our Specialist Team
Nia Barnes
Founder / Psychologist
B.Psych; GradCertMMH; CertAdvClinHyp; GradCertNeuropsychophysiology;
Nia works with adults, adolescents and children. She is passionate about the human brain and in particular how the events of the past have contributed to the current functioning of the brain and the nervous system. Her post graduate studies have focused on increasing her knowledge in this area to help her clients deal with life's challenges in more productive ways, primarily through the use of psycho education and by offering a range of therapies that will suit each person’s individual needs and personality.
Nia provides qEEG assessments and neurofeedback therapy to address longstanding conditions in adults and adolescents as well as symptoms associated with neurodevelopmental conditions (ADHD, ASD) in children. She is trained in Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and clinical hypnosis, as well as the more traditional therapies such as EMDR, Schema Therapy, CBT, ACT and Sandplay Therapy.
She has worked with individuals struggling with mood disorders including anxiety and depression, Trauma (Developmental Trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bullying, Domestic Violence), Dissociative Disorders, ADHD and ASD in adults and children as well as working with high achieving individuals on peak performance to reach their full potential. She is a member of the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc and is an accredited neurofeedback practitioner with the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance – Australia (BCIA-A).
Nia is married with 3 children and 2 grandchildren.
Liz Latchford
Psychologist
B.Psych
Elizabeth (Liz) is a psychologist who takes a holistic, neuroscience-informed approach to supporting people through emotional and psychological challenges. She is passionate about helping individuals better understand themselves, develop emotional regulation skills, and create meaningful and lasting change.
Liz has undertaken specialised training in CBT, Sandplay Therapy and Symbol Work, EEG Biofeedback, Neurofeedback and Neuroscience, Deep Brain Reorienting, and Somatic/Breathwork and Yoga Therapy for emotional regulation, anxiety, and trauma. She draws on these approaches to tailor therapy to each individual, recognising that there is no single approach that works for everyone.
Liz has a particular interest in working with individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and difficulties managing stress and overwhelming emotions. Her approach is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on creating a safe environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop practical strategies to support their wellbeing.
Alongside therapy, Liz provides psychological assessments for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with a focus on understanding the individual as a whole and identifying strengths, challenges, and practical supports that can enhance wellbeing and everyday functioning.
Liz believes that understanding how the brain, body, emotions, and experiences interact can provide an important pathway towards greater self-awareness, resilience, and wellbeing
Samantha Mills
Psychologist
B.Psych
Sam is a psychologist with extensive experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults facing a range of psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, substance misuse, and complex trauma histories. She is particularly passionate about working with individuals suffering from Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) and PTSD. She provides a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to therapy and has worked with clients who are engaged with youth justice.
With a strong foundation in evidence-based therapeutic modalities, Sam is skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and somatic-based therapies. She integrates these approaches to help her clients develop coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, and foster resilience, particularly in those recovering from trauma.
After hours, Sam and her partner care for a menagerie of scaly critters.
Mark Schmitt
Provisional Psychologist
M.Prof Psych., B.Arts, B.Comm., Dip.Bus.
Mark is a Provisional Psychologist with a background in clinical practice, social entrepreneurship, and corporate leadership. He specializes in supporting men and adolescents through a broad range of psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and substance use. By integrating evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Mark delivers a tailored, multi-modal approach to treatment.
His unique professional history—having founded a hospitality social enterprise, corporate and welfare sector training and worked across diverse business sectors—allows him to offer a pragmatic, results-oriented perspective on workplace stress and interpersonal dynamics.
Beyond his clinical work, Mark brings a wealth of lifetime experience and a commitment to personal resilience to his practice. When he is not exploring earth with his family or helping others through charity events you will find him travelling in far off places on a motorbike or training for ultra-marathons.
Stephanie Geck
Counsellor
BPsySc/BBus/DipCouns
Stephanie is a neurofeedback therapist working towards her biofeedback certification (BCIA) and has completed a diploma of counselling. Her passion is working with teens and young adults who find her easy to connect with.
Steph is trained in the PEERS program (assisting children and young people who want to improve their social skills). She assists high school students with developing good study habits, making the most of class lectures (how to stay engaged and take notes) and helping them break down and write assignments. Steph also facilitates our group and one on one self-esteem programs. She is also trained in Neurofeedback Therapy, Auditory therapy and Interactive Metronome therapy; neuromodulation therapies that stimulate brain networks for better mental health. But what kind of car does she drive
In her spare time, Steph likes camping, climbing mountains and paddle boarding over crocs.
Laura Phillips
Counsellor
BPsySc /DipCouns
Laura is a counsellor and neurofeedback therapist working toward her Biofeedback Certification (BCIA). She started with Mind Matters in 2014 and has been integral to the growth of our practice.
Laura provides Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution focused therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy and is trained in Neurofeedback and Interactive Metronome Therapy. Her gentle approach and great sense of humour make her a hit with the kids who are always eager to work with her and her compassion and understanding provide her adult clients with reassurance and security to do the necessary work required for better mental health. Ask Laura about her dog's interesting behaviour
Outside of work Laura enjoys keeping fit through weight training and cycling. She is an animal lover and especially crazy about dogs.
Emily Hayward
Occupational Therapist
BOccTh
Emily is our Occupational Therapist who goes above and beyond to assist our clients and their families. Her soft and gentle nature ensures that anxious little rugrats warm to her very quickly. Emily offers primitive reflex screening, assessment, and integration programs for children experiencing challenges with emotional regulation, attention, coordination, balance, learning, handwriting, and motor skills. Through a personalised approach, she identifies retained primitive reflexes and develops targeted strategies and activities to support each child’s development and participation in everyday activities.
Along with traditional occupational therapy services, Emily also provides Interactive Metronome Training to assist with symptoms of ASD and ADHD, increase emotional regulation, and assist with movement disorders. She provides occupational therapy and assessments for children and adults.
Emily enjoys spending time with family, is married and mum to 3 children.
Carly DeBroughe
Allied Health Practitioner
BPsySc /DipCouns
With a passion to empower individuals to achieve mental wellness and overall flourishing, Carly brings a unique blend of expertise and compassion to her work. As a certified allied health assistant, personal trainer, rhythm to recovery facilitator and positive psychology practitioner, Carly has a wealth of experience and expertise to empower people from diverse backgrounds in both adults and children to develop a growth mindset, fostering resilience, confidence and a sense of achievement.
Her approach is characterised by kindness with a calm and caring nature but also drive to motivate and challenge individuals to break down any barriers, and have fun. With many years of experience in the field, she has developed a deep understanding on what it takes to live a fulling life.
Carly is dedicated to supporting individuals in achieving their goals and cultivating a sense of wellbeing. Whether it’s through personal training, mindfulness exercises, therapy drumming or positive psychology practices, She is committed to helping others develop the confidence and skills they needed to thrive.
Our Specialist Team
Founder / Psychologist
B.Psych; GradCertMMH; CertAdvClinHyp; GradCertNeuropsychophysiology
Nia works with adults, adolescents and children. She is passionate about the human brain and in particular how the events of the past have contributed to the current functioning of the brain and the nervous system. Her post graduate studies have focused on increasing her knowledge in this area to help her clients deal with life's challenges in more productive ways, primarily through the use of psycho education and by offering a range of therapies that will suit each person’s individual needs and personality.
Nia provides qEEG assessments and neurofeedback therapy to address longstanding conditions in adults and adolescents as well as symptoms associated with neurodevelopmental conditions (ADHD, ASD) in children. She is trained in Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and clinical hypnosis, as well as the more traditional therapies such as EMDR, Schema Therapy, CBT, ACT and Sandplay Therapy.
She has worked with individuals struggling with mood disorders including anxiety and depression, Trauma (Developmental Trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bullying, Domestic Violence), Dissociative Disorders, ADHD and ASD in adults and children as well as working with high achieving individuals on peak performance to reach their full potential. She is a member of the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc and is an accredited neurofeedback practitioner with the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance – Australia (BCIA-A).
Nia is married with 3 children and 2 grandchildren.
Psychologist
B.Psych
Elizabeth (Liz) is a psychologist who takes a holistic, neuroscience-informed approach to supporting people through emotional and psychological challenges. She is passionate about helping individuals better understand themselves, develop emotional regulation skills, and create meaningful and lasting change.
Liz has undertaken specialised training in CBT, Sandplay Therapy and Symbol Work, EEG Biofeedback, Neurofeedback and Neuroscience, Deep Brain Reorienting, and Somatic/Breathwork and Yoga Therapy for emotional regulation, anxiety, and trauma. She draws on these approaches to tailor therapy to each individual, recognising that there is no single approach that works for everyone.
Liz has a particular interest in working with individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and difficulties managing stress and overwhelming emotions. Her approach is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on creating a safe environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop practical strategies to support their wellbeing.
Alongside therapy, Liz provides psychological assessments for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with a focus on understanding the individual as a whole and identifying strengths, challenges, and practical supports that can enhance wellbeing and everyday functioning.
Liz believes that understanding how the brain, body, emotions, and experiences interact can provide an important pathway towards greater self-awareness, resilience, and wellbeing
Psychologist
B.Psych
Sam is a psychologist with extensive experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults facing a range of psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, substance misuse, and complex trauma histories. She is particularly passionate about working with individuals suffering from Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) and PTSD. She provides a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to therapy and has worked with clients who are engaged with youth justice.
With a strong foundation in evidence-based therapeutic modalities, Sam is skilled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and somatic-based therapies. She integrates these approaches to help her clients develop coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, and foster resilience, particularly in those recovering from trauma.
After hours, Sam and her partner care for a menagerie of scaly critters.
Provisional Psychologist
M.Prof Psych., B.Arts, B.Comm., Dip.Bus.
Mark is a Provisional Psychologist with a background in clinical practice, social entrepreneurship, and corporate leadership. He specializes in supporting men and adolescents through a broad range of psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and substance use. By integrating evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Mark delivers a tailored, multi-modal approach to treatment.
His unique professional history—having founded a hospitality social enterprise, corporate and welfare sector training and worked across diverse business sectors—allows him to offer a pragmatic, results-oriented perspective on workplace stress and interpersonal dynamics.
Beyond his clinical work, Mark brings a wealth of lifetime experience and a commitment to personal resilience to his practice. When he is not exploring earth with his family or helping others through charity events you will find him travelling in far off places on a motorbike or training for ultra-marathons.
Counsellor
BPsySc/BBus/DipCouns
Stephanie is a neurofeedback therapist working towards her biofeedback certification (BCIA) and has completed a diploma of counselling. Her passion is working with teens and young adults who find her easy to connect with.
Steph is trained in the PEERS program (assisting children and young people who want to improve their social skills). She assists high school students with developing good study habits, making the most of class lectures (how to stay engaged and take notes) and helping them break down and write assignments. Steph also facilitates our group and one on one self-esteem programs. She is also trained in Neurofeedback Therapy, Auditory therapy and Interactive Metronome therapy; neuromodulation therapies that stimulate brain networks for better mental health. But what kind of car does she drive
In her spare time, Steph likes camping, climbing mountains and paddle boarding over crocs.
Counsellor
BPsySc /DipCouns
Laura is a counsellor and neurofeedback therapist working toward her Biofeedback Certification (BCIA). She started with Mind Matters in 2014 and has been integral to the growth of our practice.
Laura provides Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution focused therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy and is trained in Neurofeedback and Interactive Metronome Therapy. Her gentle approach and great sense of humour make her a hit with the kids who are always eager to work with her and her compassion and understanding provide her adult clients with reassurance and security to do the necessary work required for better mental health. Ask Laura about her dog's interesting behaviour
Outside of work Laura enjoys keeping fit through weight training and cycling. She is an animal lover and especially crazy about dogs.
Occupational Therapist
BOccTh
Emily is our Occupational Therapist who goes above and beyond to assist our clients and their families. Her soft and gentle nature ensures that anxious little rugrats warm to her very quickly. Emily offers primitive reflex screening, assessment, and integration programs for children experiencing challenges with emotional regulation, attention, coordination, balance, learning, handwriting, and motor skills. Through a personalised approach, she identifies retained primitive reflexes and develops targeted strategies and activities to support each child’s development and participation in everyday activities.
Along with traditional occupational therapy services, Emily also provides Interactive Metronome Training to assist with symptoms of ASD and ADHD, increase emotional regulation, and assist with movement disorders. She provides occupational therapy and assessments for children and adults.
Emily enjoys spending time with family, is married and mum to 3 children.
