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Offspring Child Health Specialists

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clinical interests

  • Eating disorders (e.g., Anorexia Nervosa & Bulimia)
  • Unsettled infants & feeding difficulties
  • ADHD & Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Behavioural & Learning difficulties
  • Mental health concerns (e.g., childhood anxiety, depression)
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Dr Jacinta Coleman

Paediatrician & Adolescent Physician
MBBS (Hons) FRACP, Certificate in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Jacinta is a General Paediatrician with a special interest in Adolescent Medicine. Having completed her degree in General Paediatrics, Jacinta then trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Jacinta has worked as Head of Adolescent Medicine at Monash Children’s Hospital, and in the area of Adolescent Health for 20 years. She combines her general paediatric training with her interest in good mental health outcomes, to manage a broad range of medical issues, particularly those conditions which cross the divide between paediatrics and psychiatry.

Jacinta has successfully managed many cases of young people with a range of eating disorders, psychosomatic illness, anxiety and depression. She also has extensive general paediatric experience in a wide range of medical problems including, asthma, eczema, unsettled infants, growth issues, developmental delay, toileting problems, learning difficulties and challenging behaviours.

Jacinta will help you and your family coordinate care for your child or young adult when a multi-disciplinary team is involved. Acute or chronic Illness during childhood and adolescence can be traumatic and challenging for all, but it can also provide opportunities for growth and resilience. Jacinta’s passion is to support families to navigate the joys and challenges that each developmental phase brings, from infancy to adulthood.

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    1 Reason for referral *

    2 Parent Surname *

    3 Patient First Name *

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    7 Child’s date of birth *

    8 Address

    Social and emotional functioning refers to a child’s ability to understand, express, and manage their emotions, as well as to interact effectively with others. These skills are fundamental for building positive relationships, developing empathy, and coping with the everyday challenges of growing up.

    Children who experience difficulties in social and emotional functioning may struggle with recognizing their own feelings or those of others, regulating emotional responses, or responding appropriately in social situations. This can lead to challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulty making friends, or misunderstandings with peers and adults.

    In the school environment, social and emotional difficulties can impact a child’s engagement, cooperation, and overall learning experience. Emotional distress may manifest as withdrawal, irritability, or disruptive behaviour, which can further affect academic progress and peer relationships.

    Assessment of social and emotional functioning as part of a neuropsychological evaluation typically includes behavioural observations, standardized rating scales, and information gathered from parents, teachers, and sometimes the child. This comprehensive approach helps identify strengths and areas for support in emotional regulation, social skills, and adaptive behaviours.

    Understanding a child’s social-emotional profile allows for the development of tailored strategies to enhance emotional wellbeing, build resilience, and improve social communication. Early intervention and supportive environments can empower children to navigate their emotions more effectively, fostering confidence and meaningful connections. 

    At Offspring Health, we aim to provide transparent information about the costs involved in neurodevelopmental and educational assessments.

    Neuropsychological assessments typically involve multiple sessions that usually take between 8 and 16 hours in total, depending on the complexity and individual needs. Our hourly rate is $260, so the total cost typically ranges between $2,300 and $4,230.

    Fees generally cover:

    • Initial consultation and history gathering
    • Testing sessions where your child will complete various fun and interactive tasks
    • Liaison with schools or health professionals as needed
    • Comprehensive case analysis and report preparation
    • Feedback sessions with families and, where applicable, educators or other professionals

    Please note that standard neuropsychological assessments are generally not covered by Medicare. However, some assessments and therapy services may be funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for eligible participants. We recommend discussing funding options with your NDIS planner or support coordinator prior to booking. Private health insurance may offer partial rebates depending on your level of coverage.

    What’s the next step?

    Please phone reception for a discussion about your needs or email psychology@offspringhealth.com