Meet the Open Minds Studio Team
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.
I am currently on Maternity leave for 2026.
Kate Mcgufficke
General Psychologist
With the right support, everyone has the strength and potential to evolve and flourish in the face of the challenges they encounter. whether thats a significant transition, relationship difficulties, anxiety, low mood, or simply 'feeling stuck'. I create a safe, non-judgemental space where healing and growth can occur, working from a place of collaboration, curiosity, and compassion.
I have a particular interest in working with children in their primary school years (ages 7 to 12), as well as adults exploring questions of identity, and neurodivergence. I draw on evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Committment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Theray (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Schema Therapy, adapting these to what feels right for each person I support.
At the heart of my practice is a warm, down-to-earth approach that creates a space where clients feel truely heard and understood. I hold the belief that every individual has the innate capacity for self-understanding and growth
I am available Monday & Wednesday.
Phoebe Rogers
Psychologist, Clinical Registrar
I try my best to create a warm and inclusive space where clients feel supported to explore their challenges and work toward their goals. I have experience helping people with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, perfectionism, depression, trauma, sexuality, and relationship difficulties. My main areas of interest are supporting clients through relationship challenges, life transitions, and the process of connecting with their intuitive wisdom and authenticity.
I work extensively with neurodiverse clients, LGBTQIA+ clients, and people in diverse relationship structures. I also have additional training in sexual health, including sexual pain, and brings a sex-positive, affirming approach to her work.
To support meaningful change, I draw on evidence-based approaches such as Schema Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques.
I hold a Master of Clinical Psychology from the University of Melbourne and brings experience from university, private, and community settings.
I am available on Tuesdays and Saturdays (Monthly).
Marcellina Moussa
General Psychologist
I’m a registered psychologist who aims to create a space that feels safe, authentic, and genuinely supportive - where you can feel comfortable exploring what’s going on for you and empowered to work toward meaningful change.
With experience in various settings including private, community and forensic settings, I have supported individuals of all ages through a wide range of challenges including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, identity exploration, addiction, and adjustment to life transitions. I also work with clients navigating complex mental health presentations, behavioural concerns, and emotional regulation difficulties.
My therapeutic approach is integrative and evidence-based, tailored to each person’s unique needs and draws on modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Schema Therapy.
Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply seeking a space to reflect and grow, I’m here to walk alongside you with curiosity, compassion, and care.
My availabilities are on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
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 currently on Maternity leave until 2027
