David Manks is a registered psychologist in private practice, offering in-person and telehealth appointments
About David Manks

Psychology Practice

I run an independent psychology practice grounded in experience, steadiness and sound professional judgement. Established in 2011, the practice provides private counselling and psychotherapy for adults and couples.

David Manks

Consultant Psychologist and Psychotherapist
I bring over 40 years of experience across psychology, healthcare and pastoral care.

Before training as a psychologist, I spent more than 30 years working with individuals, couples and families in community and hospital settings. I served for 17 years in hospital chaplaincy across public and private hospitals, and later held senior leadership roles, including as the inaugural Pastoral Care Coordinator for a major health service. I also established and directed a Clinical Pastoral Education centre, providing supervision and training for care professionals.

My early life and years living and working in rural Victoria gave me a strong connection to farming communities. I understand the pressures, values and realities of rural life and have supported many farmers and their families. This has shaped a practical understanding of how people respond under pressure and how meaningful change occurs over time.

For almost two decades, I have practised as a registered psychologist and trained psychotherapist in private practice. My work draws on lived experience and formal training, grounded in steady, thoughtful practice rather than trends or one-size-fits-all approaches.

Qualifications and registration

Postgraduate Diploma of Psychology
Master of Ministry
Graduate Diploma in Pastoral Studies
Bachelor of Theology
Registered Psychologist with The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
Member, Australian Psychological Society (APS), and College of Counselling Psychologists
Member, Australian Association of Psychologists (AAPi)
Member of the International Association for Psychoanalytic Self Psychology
Honorary Fellow, Association for Supervised and Clinical Pastoral Education

Carol Francis

Practice Manager
Carol is the first point of contact for most clients and plays an important role in the day-to-day running of the practice. She holds Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Social Work degrees and has extensive experience in community health and social work.

Carol assists with enquiries, referrals and appointments, and helps people navigate the practical aspects of care clearly and calmly. Her warmth, efficiency and straightforward communication help make the first step feel easier.
Contact Carol for a no-obligation chat
Our psychology practice is intentionally small and personal, so you see the same people each visit. Professional standards remain high, while the environment stays warm and approachable.

Our values in practice

Respect and dignity

Sessions move at your pace
Careful, non-judgmental listening with empathy
Your background and beliefs are respected
You choose what to discuss and when
Conversations remain confidential

Integrity and professionalism

Honest communication about scope and expectations
Clear boundaries and ethical practice
Referrals when concerns fall outside expertise
Accurate, compliant language and claims
Ongoing registration and professional development

Depth over quick fixes

Time taken to understand the whole picture
Thoughtful assessment before planning next steps
Exploration of underlying patterns and causes
Space for reflection rather than rushed solutions
Focus on sustainable, long-term, permanent change

Steady, personal care

A small independent practice
Consistent contact with the same team
Appointments that allow adequate time
Personal communication rather than automated systems
Reliable follow-through

Lifelong learning and competence

Regular advanced training
Engagement with professional networks
Integration of new knowledge into practice
Experience across healthcare and community settings
Ongoing reflective practice

Service and contribution

A career devoted to the helping professions
Fair, respectful care without commercial pressure
Sensitivity to each person’s circumstances
Respect for faith, values and personal meaning
Commitment to contributing positively to the community

Want to learn more?

Understanding psychological care

People often ask about the differences between psychologists, psychiatrists, counsellors and psychotherapists. Each role has a distinct training pathway and focus.

Registered psychologist

A university-trained, AHPRA-registered health professional who provides psychological assessment and evidence-based therapy. Psychologists assess, diagnose and treat emotional, behavioural and relationship concerns.

Psychotherapist

A form of in-depth, longer-term therapy that explores underlying patterns, relationships and life history. A psychotherapist may come from different professional backgrounds and may or may not also be a psychologist.

Psychiatrist

A medical doctor specialising in mental health. Psychiatrists diagnose complex conditions, such as psychosis, and can prescribe medication. Some people work with both a psychiatrist for medication and a psychologist for ongoing therapy.

Counsellor

A professional who provides counselling strategies for coping skills and personal challenges. Training pathways vary, and counsellors are not required to be registered.

Therapist

A broad term for a professional who supports emotional health. This may include psychologists, psychotherapists and counsellors, with varying training, qualifications and approaches.

David’s psychological care

David practises as a registered psychologist and trained psychotherapist, combining formal psychological training with in-depth, evidence-based therapies.

Frequently asked questions about psychology

A psychologist provides assessment and evidence-based therapy for emotional, behavioural and relationship difficulties. Treatment centres on being heard and understood, while identifying patterns, processing experiences and developing practical ways forward.
No. Psychologists are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medication. Medication is prescribed by a GP or psychiatrist.
Yes. Registered psychologists assess and diagnose mental health conditions using recognised clinical guidelines. While many conditions are widely experienced, they are often complex and require careful assessment. Psychologists and trained psychotherapists work across both common and complex presentations.
No. You can book an appointment without a referral. To access Medicare rebates, you will need a referral and a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP or psychiatrist.
Look for someone who is registered, experienced, and easy to talk to. Fit and trust are key to effective therapy.
Anything important to you. Sessions may include current concerns, past experiences, relationships, stress, sleep or life changes. The conversation develops at your pace.

Book a psychology appointment

This psychology practice provides experienced, professional care. If it feels right, you’re welcome to make contact.
Get in touch
Monday Closed
Tuesday 8am–6:30pm
Wednesday 8am–6:30pm
Thursday Closed
Friday 8am–5pm
Saturday 9am–12pm
Sunday Closed

Find Us —

9 Coronado Court, Highton
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