Meet your psychologist
Hi, I’m
Dr Maria Syed.
Registered psychologist in Melbourne & online
I work with adolescents and adults, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore what you’re going through.
Whether you’re seeking therapy or considering an assessment, we can work together to understand your experiences, recognise your strengths and find practical ways forward.

Memberships
- Registered psychologistAustralian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra)
- Professional membershipAustralian Psychological Society (APS)
Teaching & research
- Associate Teaching FellowDeakin University
- Autism researchAutism Research Initiative, Flinders University
Education
- PhD in PsychologyDeakin University
- Graduate Diploma in Adolescent Health and WellbeingUniversity of Melbourne
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Hons)Bahria University
Areas of support
You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out. We can discuss what has brought you here and whether my approach fits your needs.
ADHD & autism
Neurodiversity-affirming assessment and support for understanding your experiences, strengths and day-to-day needs.
Anxiety & low mood
Space to explore worry, low mood and the ways these experiences affect your everyday life.
Emotional regulation
Support with overwhelming emotions and behavioural challenges, with room to explore practical coping skills.
Borderline personality
A collaborative space to discuss your experiences and the areas of life where you are seeking support.
Stress & burnout
Exploring the pressures you are carrying and what a more manageable balance might look like.
Self-esteem & motivation
Working through self-doubt, procrastination and difficulties following through on everyday tasks.
My practice areas also include self-harm and suicidal thoughts. Please contact the practice to discuss your needs and the suitability of appointments.
Therapy approaches
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
CBT explores connections between thoughts, feelings and actions, alongside practical strategies for everyday challenges.
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy
DBT-informed therapy explores mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. Online DBT skills groups offer weekly sessions to learn and practise these skills with others.
Mindfulness-based interventions
Exploring ways to notice present-moment experiences with awareness and less judgement.
Client-centred therapy
Making space for your perspective, preferences and goals within a supportive therapeutic relationship.
PEERS® program
A structured social skills program for adolescents and young adults who want to build and maintain friendships. Sessions explore conversations, making plans and managing disagreements, with opportunities to practise skills between sessions.
I also provide psychological testing and diagnostic assessment.
Appointments with Maria
If you’re considering therapy or exploring an assessment, you’re welcome to ask questions before booking. Contact the practice to discuss your needs and current availability.
Explore services
Learn more about the services available at Mindlab Psychology, including what to expect and how to get started.
Therapy & counselling
Individual support shaped around your experiences, goals and everyday life.
Explore therapyADHD assessment
See the assessment steps, fees, written report and feedback information.
Explore ADHD assessmentAutism assessment
Ask about autism assessment or whether a combined ADHD and autism assessment may suit your needs.
Enquire about assessmentWorkCover & TAC Psychology
Dr Maria Syed is a SIRA-approved psychologist in NSW and a registered provider with WorkSafe Victoria, WorkCover Queensland and TAC.
Psychological support following workplace injuries and transport accidents, focused on managing emotional distress, adjusting to life after injury and working towards your recovery goals.

