MEET THE TEAM

We are a growing team of caring and passionate health professionals, united by a single vision- to deliver exceptional care and support to our clients.

Dr Danielle Orton-Lachlan

Director & Principal Psychologist

Danielle has 17 years clinical experience working as a Registered Psychologist in rural Victoria and Melbourne’s East, having worked in Community Health, Medical and Private Practice settings.

Danielle holds a Doctor of Psychology (Counselling Psychology) from La Trobe University obtained in 2017. Danielle conducted her PhD qualitative research into the lived experience of women living with recurrent panic attacks. Through this research, Danielle developed a sophisticated understanding of Panic Disorder and an ongoing passion for working with clients experiencing anxiety issues.

Danielle also has a special interest in working with neurodivergent clients diagnosed later in life. Danielle lives in a neurodivergent household and understands the daily challenges that can present at both an individual and family level. Danielle also has a heart to support carers on their own unique journeys in supporting the wellbeing of their loved ones.

Danielle is also passionate about Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) and is in the process of obtaining Therapy Dog certification for her Golden Retriever, Shelby, who is very much looking forward to being present in the therapy room soon!

Danielle currently works with young adults, adults and older adults and is available for appointment at Umbrella Psychology & Allied Health on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Dhanisha Kanagasingam

Psychologist

Dhanisha is a compassionate and dedicated Registered Psychologist who prioritises creating a safe and supportive environment for her clients. Her focus on building strong therapeutic relationships and her commitment to a strengths-based, culturally sensitive approach indicates a deep respect for individual experiences and diversity. 

Dhanisha’s experience working with children with ADHD and ASD, coupled with her special interest in these areas, allows her to tailor her approach to meet the unique needs of neurodivergent clients. This is particularly valuable for individuals and families navigating challenges related to ADHD, ASD, and other neurodevelopmental conditions.

 Her broad range of expertise, including working with children, adolescents, and adults, as well as addressing various mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and trauma, highlights her capability to provide comprehensive support across different stages of life and needs.

Growing up in a South Asian country herself, Dhanisha has a unique understanding of the cultural sensitivities and complexities involved in mental health care for individuals from diverse backgrounds. This cultural competence ensures that her clients feel seen, understood, and supported in ways that honour their experiences.

Dhanisha currently works with children, adolescents and adults and is available for appointment at Umbrella Psychology & Allied Health on Mondays through to Thursdays.

Sharni Testa

Accredited Practicing Dietician

Sharni is an Accredited Practising Dietitian with a special interest in eating disorders, disordered eating, and nutrition challenges related to autism and ADHD.

 She offers 50-minute sessions, providing space and time to explore the complexities of an individual's relationship with food, as well as other aspects of life that connect back to food. The initial one to three sessions typically focus on assessment, allowing Sharni to gain a comprehensive understanding of your background and needs.

 Sharni values a collaborative approach to treatment, working closely with clients to develop goals and select treatment options that align with their values.

 Examples of topics that may be explored in sessions include:

  • Meal planning and preparation strategies

  • Snack ideas

  • Weight and weight-related changes

  • Physical activity

  • The impact of living circumstances and routines on eating patterns

  • Navigating social eating and dining out

  • Exploring beliefs and ideas about healthy eating and weight

 Sharni recognises the presence of weight stigma in healthcare and is committed to supporting individuals of all body sizes in finding ways to nourish themselves that prioritise overall health and wellbeing, rather than the number on the scale.

 When working with adolescents, Sharni has a strong interest in Family-Based Treatment, which involves caregivers taking the lead in the initial phase of treatment to support their young person’s recovery.

 Understanding that conventional healthy eating recommendations may not always be reasonable or accessible for neurodivergent individuals, she works supports clients to redefine healthy eating in a way that honours their neurodivergence.

 Sharni currently works with adolescents and adults (13+ years) and is available for appointments at Umbrella Psychology & Allied Health on Thursdays.