About Me
Hi, my name is
Penelope Johnston,
but please call me Penny!
Hi, I’m Penny!
I’m deeply passionate about supporting neurodivergent people. I’m a Coffs Harbour–based psychologist, Medicare- and NDIS-registered, specialising in working with autistic, ADHD, and AuDHD individuals, as well as their parents, educators, and employers who support them. This work isn’t just professional for me — it’s personal too!
Over the past 25 years, I’ve worked across government and private sectors, supporting people with mental health conditions, neurodivergence, and physical disabilities. I’ve worked with children, at-risk youth, university students, adults, and the elderly, supporting them in navigating life’s challenges. Along the way, I’ve gained a deep understanding of the strengths, needs, and everyday realities of neurodivergent individuals and their families.
I’m also a parent to three amazing neurodivergent kids, so I know firsthand the ups and downs — from their early concerns and diagnoses, to advocating in schools, and supporting their mental health and daily development from childhood into young adulthood.
While my children were young, I noticed a real gap in specialised, practical support for neurodivergent families. Once they became more independent, I was able to pursue my own goals — furthering my education and establishing the practice I’ve always wanted.
I’ve completed a Graduate Certificate and Master’s in Autism Studies, along with an ADHD Clinical Provider Certificate, and have since focused on creating a practice that celebrates neurodiversity, affirms strengths, and provides practical, evidence-based strategies for individuals, families, educators, and employers. My goal is to offer the kind of meaningful support I once wished I had for myself and my own family.
When I’m not working, I love spending time in nature — it’s my space to relax, recharge, and reflect.
Registrations and Qualifications
Professional Registrations
Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS) since 2001
Medicare registered provider (1562871T)
NDIS registered provider
Registered Psychologist (General) 2007-current with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency)
Registered Psychologist (General) 1998-2007 with QLD & NSW registration boards
Recent Qualifications
2025 – ADHD Clinical Services Provider Certificate
2024 – Master of Autism Studies (Top 5% Academic Excellence Award)
2023 – Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies
Earlier Qualifications
Masters in Health and Community Psychology
Gradute Diploma in Applied Science (Psychology)
Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)
My Experience
Spent over 15 years in the government sector supporting individuals with mental health conditions, neurodivergence, and physical disabilities
Provided trauma-focused psychological care for private organisations
Supported at-risk children and young people with mental health conditions in school environments and in the community
Worked as a psychologist and disabilities counsellor in a university
“My goal is to support autistic, ADHD, and AuDHD individuals — and the people who care for, teach, and work with them — with practical, strengths-based strategies that make life easier, build confidence, and help everyone thrive. I want to help neurodivergent people be themselves, follow their goals, and feel supported every step of the way.”