MEET THE PSYCHOLOGISTS
Our psychologists are independent practitioners who are affiliated with The Nest, bringing personalised care within a collaborative and supportive environment.
ELLIE GWYTHER
REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST, CO-FOUNDER OF 'THE NEST'
Ellie has a passion for helping children and adolescents navigate the rollercoaster of life! With a belief that laughter is the best medicine, she adds a dash of humour to the sometimes-serious business of growing up!
With ten years of experience spanning across primary and senior schools, as well as the cosy corners of private practice, Ellie blends the brainy with the bubbly. She uses evidence-based techniques, while remaining relaxed, creative, and collaborative. Understanding that every young person’s world is unique, Ellie takes a personalised approach, tailoring her methods to suit each child’s strengths, interests, and needs.
At The Nest, brains are celebrated for their brilliance! Ellie takes a neuroaffirming approach, embracing the fantastic diversity of minds! Whether through therapy or comprehensive assessments, she focuses on increasing understanding, fostering acceptance, and celebrating each person’s unique way of thinking and learning. Ellie is on a mission to help clients shine by crafting strategies that support their individual strengths and needs.
When Ellie’s off the clock, you’ll find her soaking up the rays with her family, friends, and dog (Fred), or enjoying a quiet moment at home, recharging for the next adventure. Whether it’s indulging in good food and wine, cheering for the Blues at the ‘G’, or kicking back with a good show, Ellie knows how to balance the best of both worlds!
NIA THAVAPALAN
EDUCATIONAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGIST, CO-FOUNDER OF 'THE NEST'
Nia is a passionate and creative practitioner with over a decade of experience working in not-for-profit organisations, educational settings, paediatric multidisciplinary teams and private practice. She adopts a person-centred, strength-based approach, tailoring her work to each young person's needs, interests, and personality. Nia also collaborates closely with parents, school personnel, and multidisciplinary teams to tailor evidence-based support to help young people function to their fullest potential.
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Nia uses a range of evidence-based therapeutic frameworks, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Play-Based Therapy. Nia also ensures to take a neuro-affirming approach, ensuring to create an environment where all young people feel valued, understood, and empowered to thrive.
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In addition to her therapeutic work, Nia has a strong interest in assessment. Through comprehensive assessments, she aims to build a holistic understanding of young people by recognising and celebrating their strengths, identifying evidence based strategies to support their needs, and empowering them to flourish as their true authentic selves.
​Beyond work, Nia enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, staying active, and seeking adrenaline-filled adventures. With a passion for travel, she dreams of continuing to travel the world and share these experiences with her son.
ADDRESS:
Suite 1.02, 171 Union Road
Surrey Hills VIC 3127
CONTACT:
CONTACT HOURS:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday-to-Thursday: 9am-5pm
Friday: 9am-4pm
Saturday and Sunday: Closed​​​​​
The Nest Psychology Melbourne acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands across Australia and the Torres Strait Islands, and we pay our deepest respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. We recognise that sovereignty was never ceded and that this land in which we work, live, create and connect always was and always will be Aboriginal land.
At The Nest, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for all clients and carers. We celebrate and value people of all backgrounds, genders, sexuality, culture, and abilities.
© 2025 by The Nest Psychology Melbourne.