Our Vision

Psychology Farm is a clinical community where self-knowledge and inner peacefulness are visible in the relationships and activities between staff, clients, and their families.

We consider ourselves a clinical family that forms an environment of soothing safety, fostering resiliance, growth, and the creation of a peaceful and fulfilling life for all… regardless of ability or circumstance.

Who We Are

James McManis is a Psychologist with a Master of Forensic Mental Health and is currently completing his Master of Clinical Psychology. James is also a registered STAP supervisor and Advanced NDIS Behaviour Support Practitioner. James has worked with families on the Sunshine Coast and Gympie since 2010. As a result he has fostered numerous professional relationships with schools, doctors, paediatricians, psychiatrists, and mental health and disability service providers.

Alexander Parkes is a Psychologist and has a Master of Professional Psychology. He also has experience as a Research Assistant with the University of the Sunshine Coast. Alex is a new father and understands the demands of balancing work and parenting while also having a wealth of experience working with children, adolescents, and families with mental health and disability needs.

Tamara Burriss is a registered Teacher and has a Bachelor of Psychology and a Graduate Diploma of Secondary Education. She has a wealth of experience in adapting curriculum to meet the education needs of children and young people. Tamara is also experienced in developing and implementing Positive Behaviour Support plans within an educational environment.

Juanita Brook is a Provisional Psychologist who has worked at Lifeline, Child and Youth Mental Health Service (CYMHS), and Nambour State School. Juanita has three children with special needs and has made a family-focussed career change from senior management roles at top tier international firms to re-train as a Clinical Psychologist and is currently completing her Master of Clinical Psychology.

Katrina is a Behaviour Support Practitioner, with a Bachelor of Psychology and Behaviour Science and is currently studying Masters of Social Work. Katrina has worked with people with disabilities for over 15 years, in Australia, Europe and Indonesia. She loves meeting new people, listening, learning and working through the challenges – little and big – that life throws our way. 

Diesel is a registered Animal Guide who supports one of our clinicians family members. To help Diesel do his job it is important that when he has his jacket on we don’t interact with him. He is considered our expert in calming and adorableness and has been given the honorary title of Dr Diesel Dog.