Discover Neighbourhood Psychology

Dean Neighbour  
BPsychSci(Hons), MPsych(Clin)
DIRECTOR & PRINCIPAL PSYCHOLOGIST

About Dean Neighbour — Registered Psychologist, Maroochydore

Dean Neighbour is a registered psychologist based in Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast, working with children, adolescents, and families. He has a strong interest in supporting neurodivergent young people, including those with Autism (ASD) and ADHD, and is passionate about helping children better understand themselves and feel confident in who they are.

Dean takes a strengths-focused approach, aiming to understand each child’s individual profile — how they think, learn, and respond to the world — and using this as a foundation for growth. His work focuses on building practical skills, confidence, and emotional awareness in ways that are realistic and meaningful for everyday life.

Before becoming a psychologist, Dean served for over 13 years in the Royal Australian Air Force. This experience shapes his calm, consistent, and practical approach, particularly when supporting individuals and families navigating stress, change, or complex life circumstances.

Dean is fully registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), and all care at Neighbourhood Psychology is delivered in accordance with professional standards.

Dean's registration: PSY0002696220

Specialisations

Dean works primarily with neurodivergent children and adolescents, as well as individuals experiencing anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties, and challenges related to school, relationships, or life transitions. He has a particular interest in supporting children who experience the world differently, and helping them build skills in a way that aligns with their strengths.

He also has experience supporting veterans and first responders, bringing an understanding of the unique challenges associated with service, operational stress, and transition to civilian life.

Therapeutic Approach

Dean draws on a range of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and trauma-informed frameworks. His work is grounded in building strong, genuine relationships, where children and families feel understood, supported, and safe to be themselves.

His approach is neurodiversity-affirming and strengths-based, with a focus on understanding each child’s unique way of thinking, learning, and responding to the world. Rather than focusing on reducing behaviours in isolation, Dean works to build skills in emotional regulation, flexibility, and confidence in ways that align with the child’s individual profile.

  He uses a practical, engaging style with children — incorporating visuals, simplified concepts, and age-appropriate strategies that make therapy accessible and meaningful. Dean works closely with parents to ensure strategies carry over into everyday life, supporting consistency across home and school environments.

He values a down-to-earth, collaborative approach, using clear communication, practical tools, and appropriate humour to create a space where clients feel comfortable, engaged, and empowered.