Meet the Open Minds Studio Team

Smiling person sitting on a couch with decorative pillows, wearing a striped top and jeans. Abstract art hangs on the wall in the background.

Kayla Cutajar

Director & Psychologist, Clinical Registrar

I am a Registered Psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and Clinical Psychology Registrar.

I enjoy helping people open their minds to understand themselves and their environments better, to feel more empowered in their lives. I find joy in seeing clients feel more comfortable in themselves and in their relationships. Clients who work with me receive an integrated approach to therapeutic care that is tailored to their needs and interests. I am well versed in using a trauma sensitive lens to therapy.

I have also completed the Perinatal Mental Health Program at The University of Sydney and perinatal specific training with the Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE). I am a certified Circle of Security program facilitator and have completed couples training with the Gottmans institute.

My availability is on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays (Telehealth only), and one Saturday a month.

Languages spoken: English

Simone Dixon

Psychologist, Provisional

I am a Provisional Psychologist who has completed a Master of Professional Psychology. I have experience working in private practice with individuals ranging from adolescence to older adults.

I aim to create a safe and compassionate space where clients can express themselves authentically. My therapeutic approach is client centred, working collaboratively with individuals to nurture self-awareness and create change.

 I have experience working with a variety of mental health difficulties including anxiety, worry, depression, social anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship issues, bullying, and low self-esteem.

 I work with an integrative approach drawing upon evidence based frameworks, including person centred therapy, mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT),and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as movement.

 I am available Tuesdays & Thursdays.

 Language spoken: English

Smiling woman in a cream blazer standing in a doorway of a living room with white curtains and a sofa.

Talia Vescio

Psychologist, Clinical Registrar

I am a Registered Psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), bringing several years of professional and educational experience in providing both individual and group therapy across the lifespan.

While I work with clients of all ages, my particular interest and passion lie in supporting adolescent girls and young women in early adulthood as they navigate the unique challenges of identity formation, relationships, mental health, and personal growth during these formative years.

I am committed to helping individuals uncover their innate strengths and build the resilience and skills needed to shape their lives with intention and confidence. My therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Reminiscence Therapy, and Life Review Therapy. I have also recently trained in Schema Therapy and consistently apply a trauma-informed lens to all my work.

My approach aligns closely with the ethos of Open Minds Studio, where I collaborate with clients to explore their goals, values, and personal narratives in a supportive and empowering environment. I have experience supporting a range of presentations, with a focus on mood disorders, women’s health concerns, adjustment challenges, and neurodivergence in both adults and children.

I am available on Thursdays.

Languages spoken: English

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Amanjit Kaur

Psychologist

I am a registered psychologist with years of experience working with all ages. I believe that therapy is essential for individuals from all ages and walks of life to enhance their quality of life.  

I specialise in a variety of presentations including mood disorders such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder with both children and adults. I am skilled in working with developmental presentations including Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD. Furthermore, I have a keen interest in working with individuals with complex trauma and relationship difficulties. 

I have experience working with a variety of therapy approaches such Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness and more. 

I looked forward to working with you and being apart of your journey!

I am available Tuesdays and Fridays.

Languages spoken: English and Punjabi

 

Laura Ogston

Administration Officer

I am a Registered Nurse / Registered Midwife with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and a full member of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF).

Since graduating, I have worked across numerous public hospitals and areas of nursing and midwifery, building my skills and knowledge whilst helping and caring for those in need. 

I have recently returned to the workforce after becoming a mum, welcoming my daughter in 2022 and now assist with administration duties at Open Minds Studio.

I hope that clients feel they can approach me with anything they need assistance with and they feel welcome and comfortable at Open Minds Studio.

Languages spoken: English